Expert: Lynne May - 7/13/2009

Question
I've been playing guitar sporadically for about 6 years. I'm currently considering buying a second electric as there are a few things I don't like about my Epiphone SG. The neck feels slightly too round but i don't really mind that the fret board is quite broad. i find playing my friends guitar which is smaller(a Washburn) allot more comfortable (I am female and of fairly small build).  

I mainly play rhythm and use finger picking techniques often. I like to use resonant chords and do not bother much with effects apart from a little bit of reverb occasionally. I tend to amplify the bass rather than the treble, don't like twangy, brighter sounds. I use fairly heavy gauge strings and don't mind guitars with higher action.

The style of music i write is probably in the indie/rock genre, I like the sound of the libertines and considered buying a Melody Maker which seems to have a full warm tone (although i don't know if this is due more to their vox amp). With the Epiphone SG i have been strumming very high up the neck to get the mellow sound i like, which is probably a bad habbit.

Although ive been playing for along time I'm not very good and don't feel very confident about going to a guitar shop and trying lot's of guitars out in front of onlookers. I'd like to have a bit of an idea which guitars might be suitable because at the minuet I feel completely lost.

I was looking for a guitar around 300 pounds but i don't mind spending a bit more for the right one.

Thanks for your time,
Regards
Anna

Answer
Hi, Anna--

I think that the Melody Maker might be a great choice for you. It is light weight and the neck is very comfortable. Plus is has that typically warm Gibson sound.

I found a Melody Maker Les Paul that might interest you:

http://www.may-studio-music-lessons.com/MelodyMakerLesPaul

The price is 30% off, which puts it right in line with your stated budget.

Be sure to check out the "Satin White". It is beautiful! I don't think you can order it from the link because they only ship the the U.S., but I am sure you can find one at a similar price.

Let me know what you think!

Best Wishes,
Lynne
Absolutely Free Guitar Lessons
http://www.absolutely-free-guitar-lessons.com