While unboxing a brand-new electric guitar, the sight of gleaming strings and shiny finish can fill a beginner with excitement. However, the joy might be a tad dampened when you realize your new instrument does not come with a cable to hook it up to an amp.
Regardless of whether you are getting an acoustic, electric, or bass guitar, you need to know what typically comes in the box and what extra accessories you should prepare to buy separately.
Surprisingly, buying a guitar does not always mean you get everything you need to start strumming right away – especially if you’re a beginner guitarist.
I’m here to answer the query: Do guitars come with cables? As you dive into the world of guitar setup and equipment, let’s simplify the process for you!
Key Takeaways
- Electric guitars usually don’t come with cables, so you might need to buy them separately.
- Some starter guitar packages might include cables and some other essential accessories, but this varies from brand to brand.
- Acoustic guitars typically don’t require cables unless they’re acoustic-electric models with built-in pickups.
- A good quality cable plays a significant role in maintaining the sound clarity and tone of the guitar.
- Knowing where and how to buy good-quality cables is crucial for electric guitars.
- The right cable significantly contributes to your overall guitar playing experience.
Do Guitars Come With Cables? Some Do.
If you’re looking to easily kickstart your journey into the world of guitar playing, then guitar starter kits, also known as guitar bundles or all-in-one guitar packs, might be your best bet.
Marketed towards beginners, these packs aim to equip new musicians with all the necessary gear to get playing in no time. Often, these beginner guitar sets include more than just a guitar.
You’re likely to find common essentials like a tuner for keeping your strings pitch-perfect, a strap for comfortable playing postures, and even an amp complete with a cable if you’re stepping into the electrifying world of electric guitars.
But beware, not all guitar packs are created equal.
While these guitar packages promise a full set-up, the quality and range of accessories can vary drastically between different brands and retailers. It’s not uncommon to find stark differences in the types of accessories included, the quality of these products, or even the overall completeness of the kit.
So, as is with any investment, do your homework before making a purchase. Compare prices, check user reviews, and ensure that the kit truly meets all your individual musical needs.
If you’re looking for more guitar tips, make sure to check out all other articles from that category.
Types of Guitars and Cable Requirements
When it comes to the realm of music, few matters can be quite as fascinating as the ongoing debate about electric vs. acoustic guitars. Some individuals might argue that a pristine and timeless acoustic guitar can never be surpassed.
However, others might feel an irrefutable pull towards the revolutionary sounds that electric guitars can create. Regardless of your stance, one aspect is sure – the type of guitar you select can directly influence the accessories that you need, particularly when it comes to cables.
Acoustic guitars, despite their profound benefits, generally do not require the support of audio cables.
They’re designed to project sound purely via their hollow body or soundbox. An interesting exception, however, arises if you choose an acoustic-electric guitar model equipped with a built-in pickup, often used to amplify the instrument’s sound during live performances or studio recordings.
Unveiling the ability to play both unplugged and plugged, these versatile instruments indeed require instrument cables to connect them to an amplifier or audio interface.
On the other hand, electric guitars and bass guitars are virtually inseparable from their cable counterparts. These instruments intrinsically rely on electronic pickups to translate string vibrations into electric signals.
These signals are then directed via a cable to an amplifier where they’re boosted and transformed into sound. For this reason, electric and bass guitarists need to prioritize investing in the right jack cables.
Yet it’s not merely about picking any cable in sight. The type of guitar cable required can vary significantly, depending largely on the type and model of your instrument, not to mention personal preference.
A majority of guitarists lean towards ¼-inch TS cables, largely due to their universal compatibility. However, specialized cables boasting unique attributes and enhancements have also risen in popularity.
These can range from variations engineered to improve sound quality, all the way to options tailored for increased durability and longevity.
In essence, understanding the unique requirements of your chosen instrument, be it an acoustic-electric, electric or a bass guitar, can ease your journey in selecting the right cable.
Having the appropriate cable at hand is indeed a crucial part of optimizing your musical experience.
Why Good Cable Is Essential
For electric guitars, the silent heroes of music production are often the cables.
These simple, often overlooked, components are vital in transmitting the instrument’s signal from the guitar to the amplifier, thus allowing us to manipulate and augment the raw, electrically charged sounds produced by strumming or picking the strings.
A common misunderstanding among beginner guitarists is the assumption that all cables are created equal. This could not be further from the truth.
The quality of your cable can make a significant difference in sound clarity and tonal integrity. A high-quality, well-constructed cable offers a superior, clean signal quality that lets your guitar’s true voice shine through when amplified.
Cheap or poorly made cables, on the other hand, can introduce noise or signal loss, resulting in diminished sound quality.
A significant factor in cable quality lies in their construction. Shielded cables, for instance, play an essential role in maintaining signal purity.
The shielding, usually made from flexible materials such as rubber or PVC, wraps around the interior wires to insulate and prevent external interference that could cause humming or buzzing sounds in your output.
Essentially, the better the shielding, the purer the sound.
Choosing the wrong cable can not only adversely affect your sound but can also impact your playing experience. Take cable length into consideration: The lengthier the cable, the greater the signal loss.
Therefore, while a long cable may give you the freedom to roam, it could potentially degrade your sound. Keep these factors in mind when browsing cables for your electric guitar.
Finally, even with the perfect cable, handling and maintenance play a crucial role in ensuring optimal performance. Disconnect by pulling the plug, not the cable, and avoid stepping, tangling, or tightly coiling your cables to prolong their service life.
In conclusion, never underestimate the role a good cable plays in your guitar setup. The difference is not just in signal strength and sound quality, but also in your overall playing experience. Thus, investing in a proper guitar cable is definitely money well spent.
Getting Cables Separately
Since guitars don’t always come with cables included, knowing where and how to purchase these essential guitar accessories becomes crucial for any guitarist ready to play electric.
Buying guitar cables may seem straightforward, but there are certain aspects that you should be mindful of.
Whether you prefer shopping at a local music store or browsing online platforms, remember to do your research first before making a purchase. Understanding the kind of guitar gear you need and want, is important in deciding which cable to buy.
Considering things like cable length is also important. While a short cable may limit your motion as you play, an excessively long cable could interfere with your sound quality.
Another factor to consider is durability. Some cables might be cheap but easily get tangled and damaged, while others may cost a little more but can withstand heavy usage and last longer.
Finally, remember that you’re also paying for the brand’s reputation when you’re buying guitar cables. Stick with the trusted brands that are widely respected in the guitar community, and you’re likely to find a cable that fits your needs and preference.
I personally enjoy using cables made by Fender.
So, whether you’re a beginner looking for your first cable or a seasoned pro in need of a replacement, always prioritize quality and value for money. Remember, the right guitar cable can make all the difference in your performance.
What Cable Should You Buy?
As a guitarist, choosing the right cable is just as crucial as selecting the right guitar. Your choice of cable can affect your sound and overall playing experience — from the connection to your amplifier to the ease of mobility on stage.
But with dozens of best guitar cables on the market, how do you make a choice that suits your needs?
There are several factors to consider when shopping for a guitar cable. Firstly, think about your guitar type and amplifier setup.
Electric and bass guitarists, you’ll need a sturdy and reliable instrument cable to connect to your amplifier. You might also want to consider cable connectors, which can range from straight to right-angled configurations, depending on your instrument’s jack placement. It’s also important to consider the environment you’ll be playing in.
For those playing in a professional setting, opting for a longer cable might provide you with the flexibility and freedom of movement you need.
The variety of professional guitar gear might seem overwhelming, but don’t let that deter you. There are numerous reliable brands that offer well-made cables. These offer durability, great tone, and reliable connections — key essentials for any guitar player.
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest cable, remember that quality often comes at a price. Investing a little more might save you from future cable failures and sound quality issues.
However, while top-of-the-line cables can be expensive, there are many affordable options that do not compromise on quality. This way, you can find a balance between cost and quality that suits your budget.
In conclusion, choosing the right cable can make a significant difference in your guitar playing experience. So, take your time, do your research, and select a cable that meets your needs and preferences. And remember, the essential thing is to enjoy the music you make!