design for focus on technique

[zebra]

Planning my first Warmoth build.  I like the idea of the build concept putting the focus on cleaning up sloppy technique, a build that makes laziness uncomfortable and/or puts a spotlight on what sloppiness sounds like.  So far, I'm thinking 25 1/2 in scale, bridge only pickup, fixed bridge, no tone control, solid body.  Any other ideas, in particular, w/regards to neck wood, body wood, and pickups?

 

[bagman67]

If you want to clean up sloppy technique, build an instrument that plays like butter.  I concur with your impulse to build a very simple instrument, however - eliminate as many fiddly bits as possible so you are left with a simple tool.  Then, as Cagey's signature suggests, slooooow down and concentrate - practice with intentionality and self-awareness.  Use a metronome or drum machine (apps available for Android and iPhones all over the place) to ensure your time is where it needs to be.  The idea is to have the instrument provide you as little resistance as possible, not to put a weight ring on the end of your bat while you're in the on-deck circle, so to speak.  You want to enjoy handling the instrument, not fight with it.

 

[ihavenothingprofoundtosay]

Planning my first Warmoth build.  I like the idea of the build concept putting the focus on cleaning up sloppy technique, a build that makes laziness uncomfortable and/or puts a spotlight on what sloppiness sounds like.  So far, I'm thinking 25 1/2 in scale, bridge only pickup, fixed bridge, no tone control, solid body.  Any other ideas, in particular, w/regards to neck wood, body wood, and pickups?

Hey - I've done that!  My Firebird was built as a thinline (so that it's loud and light enough to practice without an amp), one pickup right at the neck, wired straight to the jack; hardtail strat bridge and flatwounds.  I've improved tons since I've had it, because playing CLEAN lets me hear myself and where I'm screwing up.

You're on the right track with a simpler instrument, but you should also take a look at the rest of your signal chain.  Unless you're trying to work on your tone, don't ever practice with effects or distortion - you want to hear yourself as clearly as possible.

The one mistake I made was the shape: the Firebird is hardly the most ergonomic shape out there, especially mine with a thicker (2" deep) body.    A strat,  soloist, or even a Z body are your friends.

 

[DavyDave53]

All you need is a light comfortable body and a neck that does not fatigue your hand.

I suggest building or buying a Esquire.  They are simple and to the point.

 

[mark1178]

Practice every stinking day. Find backing tracks, improvise through them and record and try to do better. Or pull a John Petrucci and go MLB steroids on your fingers.

 

[DavyDave53]

Do what Ted said, “Practice, practice, practice.  Practice until you get a guitar welt on your chest.”

 

[DustyCat]

Planning my first Warmoth build.  I like the idea of the build concept putting the focus on cleaning up sloppy technique, a build that makes laziness uncomfortable and/or puts a spotlight on what sloppiness sounds like.  So far, I'm thinking 25 1/2 in scale, bridge only pickup, fixed bridge, no tone control, solid body.  Any other ideas, in particular, w/regards to neck wood, body wood, and pickups?

Hey - I've done that!  My Firebird was built as a thinline (so that it's loud and light enough to practice without an amp), one pickup right at the neck, wired straight to the jack; hardtail strat bridge and flatwounds.  I've improved tons since I've had it, because playing CLEAN lets me hear myself and where I'm screwing up.

Where did I miss this awesome Thinline Firebird without center ?
I did not see it available as an option on the official W website. Pics pls!

As for "cleaning up technique" I would offer going with a comfortable body shape (strat. VIP, tele shape) to make practicing more enjoyable and less painful  :doh:

If you feel like taking a walk on the wild side, why not try a fully scalloped neck?

 

[Ribeye]

Good technique is no substitute for volume.  I'd also add a distortion pedal to my rig.