All these horror stories make me so happy to have a bass player who is actually good. While my band with him is primarily indie rock he is also a big jazz hound so that means he can actually play, believe it or not he actually changes his strings!
I swear it's true! I have played with bassists like Glenn has described before no question, but I seriously lucked out with this one. Full disclosure: while he does change his strings, how often he changes them is pretty variable and I do make fun of him for that. Also his output jack crapped out on him at one point and of course I had to be the one to show him how to fix it, it wasn't before a gig or anything so it wasn't that big a deal; he subsequently checks that connection before every gig because he knows he'll never hear the end of it if that thing goes. More than a lot of bassists can say though.
Rich Murphy Haha im joking bro lol thats good that you found a good one though cause if finding a good guitarist and drummer is hard, a good bass player is even harder lol ive only met one lol
A sharpie is a great idea. But I learned to bring a silver sharpie because I found I was writing on dark surfaces more often and the silver sharpies work great for that. Especially handy when someone asked us to sign our CD insert or black T shirt.
I know I'm late on this reply, but I second this. Power strips also protect from power surges, which keeps your gear safe. After blowing the fuses in my first amp, I've never plugged it directly into an outlet.
It's a nice kit for some basics, but if you want to step it up, you'll need a larger box. Keep a 15 foot extension cord, as well as a _50 foot_ extension cord. The 15 footer is for getting power to your pedal board all the way up at the front of the stage... the 50 footer is for those gigs when you show up and the only place to plug in is a lone outlet across the room because the event planner wasn't prepared for the needs of a band (this usually won't happen to you in a club, but it sometimes still will). Also, get a Furman noise-cancelling powerstrip. These are only $25, and they not only have a 15 foot power cord attached, but they also _cancel noise_, which is an amazing feature. Ya know how every time you stop playing for a second, your amp is buzzing and hissing loudly until you hit "standby?" Well in many cases, this item alone will solve that problem. Additional stuff: Keep toothpicks in your box. These are for fixing strap buttons when they come loose, as they will if you play your instrument like a rock musician. When your strap button starts stripping out, and a screwdriver isn't enough to fix it, take the strap knob out, pop a tooth pick into the strap button hole, break it off so that the piece that remains is flush with the top of the hole, and then screw the strap button back in. If you dab some wood glue on the side of the screw as well, it will hold like a champ. Also, keep some spare strap locks in your box too in case you have the washer-type and the parts start acting up. In fact, to have all your bases covered, keep an extra guitar strap fitted with strap locks in the box for a quick change of strap if you ever need it. Vise grips. These will come in handy in a variety of situations, I promise you. Duct tape is fine, but honestly, gaffe tape is better. Get the black gaffe tape, and it will be incredibly effective for taping your cables down to the stage floor so that everyone isn't tripping over them, but unlike duct tape, it won't leave all that shitty, sticky residue all over your cables when you remove it. FInally, keep some of your band's business cards in there. You probably won't be carrying them on your person all the time, and if you're any good, _someone_ will ask you for one (or at least they'll say "hey bruh, do you have a website?" in which case, "here's our card" is the best answer).
Pros: you don't go deaf, cons: you don't look METAL \M/ But in all seriousness always take earplugs to any concert that goes a bit loud, your later self will thank you
I never played live but i think pros would of course be protecting your hearing from loud noises (especially feedback, or if a mic malfunctions it can produce a loud feedback-like noise (also if there is a lot of people in a small enclosed space, people screaming can do some fucking hearing damage as well)). Cons would probably be not being able to hear high frequencies very clearly which can make a difference how your playing sounds to you. Again, I've never played live so i dont know for sure.
As a guitar tech,there are a few other things that should be in there in my opinion. Multimeter being a big one, larger screwdrivers (1/4in diameter ones are awesome for output jacks and trem claw screw),a crescent wrench,extra 22ga wire (you never know if you are going to need to rewire something/splice a lead),Electrical tape/shrink tube. and I always carry polish/lem oil/and extra polish cloths with me. Other than than that all awesome recommendations!
oh,forgot one of the other big ones for all that wiring,wire strippers,I know you can melt the plastic off of the wiring,but that just ends up being a gross mess a majority of the time.
This isn't exactly the stuff I carry, but why would anyone give this video a thumbs down? At some point I've needed everyone of those things at a time when running to a store wasn't possible. This isn't just a good idea, it's necessity if you're gigging.
Maybe because they don't like the advertisement of graphicstock that he placed on his video, or they don't like the way he presents the "toolbox", or his voice, or even him.
Jason Spencer because all this is, is a modified tackle box if not a ordinary fishing tackle box unmodified loaded with guitar gear. That's why thumbs down.
Lil Question Glenn, do you have a deal with Purple Picks with a referral link or something like that? I'm on the market for a couple new picks and wouldn't mind supporting your channel using a referral for getting some sweet Purples.
SpectreSoundStudios I always carry 2 x 9v batteries because our bass player has 18V active pickups. Extras I carry * A BBQ lighter and some heat shrink - Too many cigarette lighters go missing, but a BBQ lighter is a little harder to pocket. * spare capo * a slide * spare fuses * spare pre tube 12AX7 _I also keep spare rectifier diodes. I've had my Bassman go south and it takes out the rectifiers first_ * Antiseptic spray. for dirty mics * my own SM58 style mic. I use a JTS NX8. Too many shitty PAs and unhygienic mic cages * Bottle Opener * Gaff Tape - not just duct tape * White electrical tape - for instant labeling of stuff * #1 & #2 Phillips head drivers * Good wire cutters * Multimeter * Small plug in tuner and lead - as the clip on tuners don't work when there is another band or instrument playing. * Ear plugs * Phone charger and leads I also have a good quality Bosch blue cordless drill driver with a string winder and drum key attachment along with a collection of all the screwdriver bits I'll ever need, as well as brass hooks and tech screws I keep a couple of spare guitar stands in the boot of the car I also keep a modded overdrive pedal to give me a bit _more_ when I'm playing through someone elses rig. Finally, some multi vitamins, as let's face it, the bass player always needs some B12
And I am a bass player, mostly, but I play guitar too....hence the overdrive pedal So when I gig bass, I always have a spare bass, plus all the guitar crap, as you never know what someone will forget.
Hi Glenn, thanks for the great compilation, this is very useful! i actually use a old small military bagpack, because its easier to transport. But there are a few things that i would put into the toolbox, because of experience: - Earplugs... and spare Earplugs (because someone loses them all the time,... mostly me) - multiple switched socket-outlet with a long cable (believe me, if you have it, you need it every gig) - small first aid kit (band-aid, aspirin, voltaren, desinfect spray & sore throat pills) - more spare batteries: 9V, AA & AAA (if one battery dies, all the others tend to get suicidal ) - a Towel + a spare T-shirt (if you dont know where the next shower is, babywipes are useful too) - isolation-tape, double-sided adhesive tape & markertape (nothing to explain here... ) - phasing tester (!!!!!!!) - Drumsticks (the cheapest, so he learns his lession ;) ) - Lighter, chewing gum, waterbottle and a book to read
Honestly, even if you don't use some of this stuff like a MIDI cable, somebody else at a show might. And being the band that saves the day turns you into the cool guys, and really could help you out in the future. Whether it's booking a show, or finding a place to crash on your next tour, being prepared, and being the dudes that averted disaster for a gig would probably go a long way in making good impressions and connections.
Probably the coolest thing I got this year. Between my studio headed brother and my sweet old Mom, they got together and put a guitar players tool kit together for me, very cool.
This is hands down one of the best videos you've done. Thank you for taking the time to make a very complete guitarist toolkit and share it with the world. I'll be referring a lot of people to this.
Great set of suggestions Glenn. The deodorant stick is a new one to me. I generally keep myself clean apply an adequate amount before heading out the door, so without it becoming as issue. You put together a good basic kit. I've got my E-kit in a rectangular corduroy bag with a bunch of zipper pockets on the outside and a few smaller divided compartments on the inside. I carry what you do plus a bit that has the snap connector for the 9v battery on one end, about 5 inches cable and the Boss style center ground plug on the other that lets ya plug the 9v battery into the pedal without having to yank it off the board or open it up. It's great for trouble shooting which one is the bad power lead that runs from the PS to each cable or is part of the daisy chain to each cable with a One Spot. They used to cost about $8-$10 to buy. I've made my own for a few years now, so I'm not real sure on what they go for now. Also as you are smart to carry just about every common cable, a few of those power leads that run to each pedal are not a bad idea to have. A cable tester is another item in my possibles bag as well as a power strip and a 3-wire, 25 foot extension chord. I also bought one of those EHX 44 Magnum amp pedals and a turbo distortion pedal for my bag. Why? Because when one of the guitarists' blows their amp in the middle of the set because the term "basic maintenance" is not in their vocabulary, the two pedals make a bitchin' back up amp that plugs into the cab with the still smoldering head sitting on it and it'll get the gig to completion. I've got a spare SM57 and SM58 in my bag too as well as some cymbal nuts, felt washers, nuts, screws, springs (for the kick drum pedal), a few of the common nuts bits and screws for everything else, assorted fuses for the amps, keyboards and whatever else needs them. I also have a roll of electric tape and a roll of painters tape, an Emory board, a few on the 4x4 squares of asstd grit sand paper, a piece of 000 steel wool, some inexpensive common size nut and bridge saddle files, a 35 mm film can with baking soda, some low viscosity CA glue (for emergency nut or bridge saddle repair) and some 5 min epoxy. Oh, a roll of 24 gauge stranded cord wire, a vial of nut lube, a small box of dental floss, and and a basic multi-meter. I mentioned what I have with me as I carry some things that can prove essential for the other musicians to put in their personal kits. I was in a band for a few years, up until just recently, where I was the band member that carried what was needed to keep the band running through a gig regardless of the technical issues. Paraphrasing what you said, better to be prepared than right. From a couple of decades of past experience, I learned to bring what was needed to start and finish the gig when something broke. Everything in my bag has proven needful. It doesn't matter what instrument I've played in the various bands and projects that I've been a member of. I just believe that ensuring a technologically glitch free gig is as important in some respects as it is for me to know my parts, my cues to my bandmates and their cued to me. Oh, and in this particular band, I was the bass player. Keep up making and sharing these eminently helpful and informative videos.
Spare cables are a sick idea because from personal experience of being a guitar player - we are too cheap to even replace our main cable that doesn't have a good connection anymore. Perhaps soldering wick would also be handy, you never know what kind of a mess faces you inside electronics cavity (because let's face it, you bought it second hand and someone had replaced the pickups and electronics). I've had a bit of bad luck with those multikey allen tools, they got bent and always felt like snapping, it was also a bit difficult to reach all places necessary. But it's a great idea for emergency. Deoxit is something you probably wanted to use for maintenance at home already, to get inside your amp, but in a pinch you gotta do what you gotta do. Big thumbs up at all the screwdrivers, cutters and pliers. Maybe even a couple of short wires if let's say your output jack has a shitty wire that just dies. Tubes are a great idea as well, can't count how many stories you hear of tubes popping mid gig or the amp getting bumped and breaking a tube. As long as you know your amp is happy to take that pair of power tubes without further adjustment. On the same note, a spare fuse! If you do something stupid in a place that has poor power wiring and pop a fuse, it's a really simple but annoying fix if you don't have one. As long as the amp isn't faulty and popping a fuse because of that, of course. Almost forgot the most important one: a couple of packs of those disposable ear plugs that you can buy on some gigs. You want to protect your hearing and your bandmate's hearing as well. That's something you don't get back and maybe you're allowed to turn the amps loud enough to need them too. For guitar players I'd also suggest condoms. Bass players don't need them - nobody's gonna leave with them and they don't know how to use it anyway.
This video has been watched over 6000 times. 1000 of those are probably mine, I find this and the drummers tackle box video satisfying to watch. I’m a big nerd about this stuff. I took a lot of your ideas and used them myself and through the years I changed it a little as I found out in the field that my requirements were slightly different and there were a few things in there that I’d never use. Hats off to you my friend as you had some awesome ideas but I’m sure you will agree that everyone’s tool box will be a personal thing. Rock on man, I’d love to see another one of these videos.
Band aids are very useful. We've cut ourselves while playing before and it's always helpful to have something to patch it up so youre not bleeding everywhere. Unless youre that metal af, then go ahead 😂👌🤘
What I recommend instread of needlenose pliers and an army knife is a leatherman multitool. Theyre not extremely expensive and definately worth having as a guitar player
Foas - A bass players toolkit wouldn't be that much different, except there would be more weed paraphernalia and the $20 would have been bummed from someone, used to buy new ear plugs, and replaced with an IOU for your future self to deal with.
More seriously, for singer: Spare windscreen for microphone passable spare microphone Spare microphone cable Spare AA bats for wireless (and buy them morning of gig, don't leave in box for 5 years and expect them to be good) Throat Coat/peppermint Zinger tea, insulated not plastic mug, single cup immersion heater Lemon drops/Bag of cough drops/peppermint hard candies (digital?) pitch pipe for warmup - Everybody's got to be in tune Black gaffer's tape clean T-shirt in gallon Ziploc bag for after show Drum key, capo, spare picks, other stuff that the other knuckleheads in the band will forget spare set of keys to the van
Hi Glenn, I have a additional toolbox for open-air gigs. It contains - a few pieces of wood about 3x4 cm across and 40cm in length. Very handy to keep your rig from drowning on a wet stage or just balance things on uneven ground. - a 4x5m tarpaulin with lugs and a hasp of clothline for a makeshift shelter - a few packages of cheap thin tarpaulin. I prepare a strip of that which lies neatly folded behind my gear, just in case... This saved my rig once when there were about 45 sec between the first droplets and heavy downpour: stop playing, cut power, guitar on the stand, stand in front of amp, pull foil over rig, DONE. Run for cover. - a dry T-shirt in a watertight wrapper. - a foldable umbrella - (finally) a small bottle of booze, if everything failed and all thats left of your amp are some bubbles on the muddy surface in the swamp. greetings bb
I bring most of these things but I would recommend two additions, FINGERNAIL CLIPPERS! And super glue. It would really suck to show up at a gig and realize that you forgot to trim your nails, which can really screw up your playing. As a guitar player and clean person in general, I always keep my fingernails trimmed but I wouldn't want to take the chance. And the super glue comes in handy if you have a painful cuticle, or just need to stick something quick. =)
I'd say ditch the clippers and just get a small medkit (just the really important stuff). I used the scissors you usually get in one of those kits as nail scissors and they can fuck up your nails, but if you take nail clippers your brain is going to put nails in the background because you have stuff on hand, but if you have to use those scissors you're gonna think about it at home. Additionally the medkit can come in handy if you slice your finger somehow, or manage to stab yourself in the thumb, but don't want to cause trouble. You also never know if the place, you're playing at, has those available even though they need to have it.
Agree on the Nail Clippers . . . and I always have a Small Nail File ( metal ) which can also be used for other repairs in an emergency. Small Magnet to retrieve loose screws when changing batteries or doing repairs. Multi-Tool to check Battery Voltage and Cable Continuity *****
Here's a nifty thing to add to your kit. If you buy a 4 pack of Grolsch beer they come in these awesome little growler style bottles, take the red gasket off the tops before pitching the bottle and you can use them to help secure your guitar straps to the strap pegs better. I learned this little trick over 10 years ago and I still to this day keep a handful of these gasket to use as strap locks. plus they work for many other little DYI projects and you get to drink beer in the process of getting them.
Windsor is right next to Detroit and gets alot of visitors from MI (I've been wanting to go for awhile) so that might be why. Perhaps in Windsor they treat the two currencies the same lol.
Some type of small modeler pedal can be a life saver in a bind. Even (dare I say it) a used Line 6 Pocket Pod. It will still sound better than Guitar>pedal board>DI>Mixer. I have found myself in the situation years ago where the output transformer blew mid gig in my Marshall, and I had to finish the gig with my tubescreamer straight to the board. How I wish I had a tiny modeler in that instance. Hell, get a $20 guitar-phone adapter and download Amplitube to your phone.
Had a guitar toolbox for years, one of the best things I ever did. The superglue in a pot and the contact cleaner are excellent ideas, will be adding them to the box. I recommend keeping an el cheapo multi-meter in there too. It makes trouble shooting electrical problems 100x faster. Great video.
I use the hidden money trick. I make a "plus" shape with it, and tape the middle off, so there is no glue there. fold up my money, attach three of the legs of the tape, put in my money, and put on the last leg. that way, I have a pocket for my money, that I can take out the money without ruining bills. I also use it for picks. I people love stealing picks. I also like to bring two tuner pegs of the same model as is on my guitar(s). Sometimes the tuners actually just breaks, even name-brand tuners break eventually. 3 different sizes of multitools, and two types of box cutters. This is simply because the bigger ones are easier to handle, but having the benefit of reaching into tiny places, helps alot. Thanks for the video anyways, got some stuff I need to pick up now :)
Very helpful video. I agree that it's better to have something and not need it. A few things that I would add: Gaffer's tape is much better than duct tape. Doesn't leave residue and is easier to write on. They make it in glow-in-the-dark, which is great. Put tape over the contacts of your 9v, they can short out and drain if both contacts touch something metal. Zip ties -- can never have enough of those; I recommend a head lamp instead of (or in addition to) the flashlight. Hands free is a good thing; Small hex wrenches. I find that the standard sets don't have small enough wrenches to adjust saddles, etc.; Definitely ear plugs, as I've seen mentioned; Small notepad to jot down ideas/reminders; Handkerchief or towel to wipe sweat off (napkins leave klingons); if you play acoustic, spare bridge pins; business cards, flyers, demo cds, usb sticks with your epk, etc.; I also use a small screwdriver to etch into the metal of cable ends, microphones, since it can't be wiped off; Gum. I also put business cards in every bag, container and case in case they get lost. I also hide additional cards in cases so I can prove I own something. Keep up the good work!
this is something I learned that I think any musician can use. Buy an outdoor brand backpack, one of their really small, compact hiking packs are great. you can fill it with anything you need for anyone. I've carried stuff for my entire band at times, along with my drummer's tool box of course. But those bags are rugged, they store a lot and they will last you a long time and really lessen your grief
That automotive paint thing is a good idea. I've personally been using a roll of bright pink Duck Tape and wrapping it around various things - cables, guitar stands, mic stands, mics, the bass player's mouth, even on guitar cases. Probably won't work if everybody starts to identify their gear with the same colour of tape, but hopefully if someone's trying to walk out with a Fender Strat, they're going to choose one of the unmarked cases rather than the one with an obvious, bright pink stripe.
Awesome video Glen! Awesome! I think every guitar player should make one of these. It can save you life! I've got one and it grows every time with different kind of useful things. Thanks again and rock on!
Few additional items to consider: 1.) Adjustable wrench or a few common size sockets/driver handle just in case something comes loose (i.e. input jack / pots / tuner bushings), 2:) With the hex keys keep a set of both imperial and metric, or at the minimum be sure that you have the correct ones for your guitar(s) 3:) If you have a GIbson or guitar with a similar style truss rod make sure to have the right wrench for that as hex keys aren't going to help 4:) Final thing is a small ruler that measures down to a minimum 1/32" (1/64" is ideal) so you can adjust the action with some precision in the event the guitar shifts due to humidity/temp swings. (Obviously this is more for those that are going to travel to gigs more regularly and/or gigging in outdoor venues) Overall though a solid collection of essentials! Thanks!
My guitar player and I (I am a bassist) carry a lot of the same things. Spare strings, picks, batteries, cables, tools, flashlights, tape, markers, microphone. I also carry a spare set of IEM's just in case (the drummer tends to break his). I keep a soldering iron and solder in the car, but bring a spare bass into the venue (which I rarely need). We also bring a spare amp head.
Glenn, cheers from San Diego and I love your channel. I recently upgraded the tuners on my SG and went with the Planet Waves locking tuners. They are extremely smooth, eliminate any winding when swapping strings, and my personal favorite feature is the built-in excess string cutters! U have to see it. Keep up the great work!
my road kit includes what you mentioned, mostly, plus spare earplugs, aspirin, pepto (you don't want to have the runs in the middle of a gig), micropore tape, a hand towel, wire stripping pilers, a cheap multimeter (because cables may fall and you don't want to blow up an amp because of a false contact), and paper towels (learn it las gig when my bassist poured a whole beer can over my guitar).
I'm a bass player and looking for something similar. I'm assuming it'd be mostly the same stuff, but also the ever important "Bass Player to English Dictionary" so that my band can understand what I'm talking about?
I'm one of those people who if you give a sharpie to without a cap, will just throw it away or leave it somewhere. At least you're right about people not wanting one without a cap though ;) ;) ;)
Great kit and another great video! One small tip for you; I suggest keeping the terminals of the 9 volt battery covered to guard against accidental discharge if the battery comes to rest against a metal tool in just the right (wrong) way. I keep my spare 9 volt in an old pill bottle.
any suggestions for a quality value soldering iron? I was considering getting a decent one with variable temp for the home, but a compact one such as the one in your kit would be choice for on the road
For home better get one with temperature stabilisation. And make sure that there are spare tips available for the model you chose - those fancy coated fuckers tend to die every now and then (get a few of them before you leave the store). For the road - any cheap one will do. Even with copper tip. Just make sure it's at least 50-60W.
As an electrical engineer, Hakko make some of the best around if you can find one (I think they're a little easier to get a hold of in the US than here in the UK), but Antex make some good budget options, they do a compact variable one, the temperature range isn't great (but good enough for most applications), but mine has a little screw to set the temperature.
Don't buy a cheap Amazon one though, you'll regret it, 99% of them come with a horrible needle tip that won't take a tinning, you want a small-ish chisel tip.
Great stuff. I just made ( Jan 2019 ) an Extensive Guitar Toolbox for: not only Gigs, but for Maintenance & Repairs and also Polishing and F-One Oil and the Nomad Dual Cleaning Tool.
Glenn. Your TH-cam’s are becoming underground musician gospel, Mano. Thanks for sharing such great knowledge from the school of hard knocks in your punk-ass upstart style (needed on soooo many levels). My amazon wishlist hasn’t seen so many adds since I tried to upgrade my garage. Lead Guitarist tool kit shirt is friggin gold, too. A few suggestions for additions: -10mm and 11mm open-end box end wrenches for tuning key and input jack jamnut tightening (or whatever sizes for stuff on your guitar(s)). These are the sizes in my squire strat I’m upgrading. If u prefer sockets, get deep ones. Needlenose work in a pinch, but slip n scratch is very likely, particularly if you’re sweaty and under pressure to complete the fix in a noisy, poorly lit club or something; - $2.50 in US quarters and a couple of dimes. Tape up a couple of stacks - stuff em in your tremolo cavity - Work as a tremolo lock in a pinch if you broke a string or otherwise can’t get your floating bridge to behave. Fit nicely in a prescription bottle. Best to size the stacks and tape them ahead to make sure you get your bridge in the right position. This can be a pain to do on the spot. “Hey, who’s flingin’ quarters?!” - Trick from an old Dan Erlewine article: Book of matches. If you strip a screw, trim off the tip section of a match and trim to fit in the stripped hole. It’ll keep the screw from stripping out. I’ve also used shards from a chop stick I smooshed with a set of pliers. - a small bundle of paracord. Every tool kit needs this. If only to impress your urban survivalist buddies if nothing else. Bonus- Better than guitar stings for strangling the sound guy.
Spare fuse for your amp (I've had one blow during soundcheck before) , earplugs, power strip and extension cable. And if you are carrying a drum key, you might as well keep a set of sticks too.
I'm a little ocd so I have car cleaning supplies to clean my guitars and at home I have my buffers and wax and compounds so to fix clearcoat or paint I always have everything I need
Until you are flicking the light switch off and on exactly 10 times every time before you leave a house to stop your best friend from getting hit by a car and dying on the spot, then no, you don't have OCD. Not even a little.
stormx173 really because ocd according to psychology today's definition can mean as little as repeated thoughts,in which I do have repeated unpleasant thoughts of fingerprints,scratches,etc etc, I detailed cars for magazines and car shows throughout the US and so that's why I'm so picky on the appearance of everything, go ahead,look up the definition, Google is an amazing tool,learn to use it
Ok. Do these unpleasent thoughts feel like they arent really yours, and if you dont follow through a random thought you get very anxious and maybe even start panicking (or any other negative effect for that matter, you might even feel physically sick?)? Serious questions now. if that is the case you should probably get help, if not, well you are probably just normal and you just like having things look nice.
One thing I'd like to add is a list of everything in the box as well as a list of he guitarists rig, including cables. This just ensures that you didn't forget anything at a gig.
I'd add two things to that list: - Masking Tape (I had to Google the name, look for "Cinta de carrocero" to know exactly what I meant) Ideal if you need to mute strings or string noise in your bridge and nut, it doesn't destroy your guitar's paintjob and it doesn't leave behind sticky marks. - GHS Fast Fret, because that shit is just soooo nice (and it helps cleaning afterwards as well!) This can be replaced with the Dunlop Maintenance kit. Great video and tips!
I'm happy I watched your video.I have much more stuff in my music room but never considered doubling up and bringing a box of junk with me when I'm invited to my friends gig's.I guarantee the fist time I forget to bring it with me would now be when it was needed most to avoid a good enough showing! Rock-On brudda.... TKX
Great video! Been doing this since the 80's on all my gigs. I always carry a gig bag, or small duffle bag with damn near "everything" in it. You can almost guarantee that you'll need something from that bag before your gig is done!
The biggest one I didn't see was a set of emergency guitar strings. As a guitarist, that should be in any guitar player's tool box! I would also say a small can of wood cleaner if you're on the road to keep your guitar clean and your neck moisturized. Also, philips screwdriver! Your backplates, pickguard, and string trees use philips heads! A small one for those and a big one for your neck joint (if you have a bolt-on guitar). I would recommend a big flathead too if you have the space because they also can come in handy!
+SpectreSoundStudios Providing you record it for uploading to TH-cam and laughing at, what's the problem with that?. Mind you, they'll probably huff the propellant...Firebreathing bass player!
I would add some spare jacks for the cables, a Capo, a cloth and something to clean fretboard/strings with like those bottles that dunlop sells, never thought about making a toolbox, awesome video Glen!
With the exception of the $20 bill, the soldering iron, solder, and the power amp tubes, that box pretty much mirrors my back pack solution. I'm one of the people who uses nail polish, the automobile paint pen is a great idea. Less chance of mess. I do carry the drum key for the reason you give in the video.
I second the earplugs suggestion! (and some throw aways... b/c who loans out ear plugs?) Some other bits that can be life savers (apologies for any redundancies): -Most important: a hideous, deeply shaming strap for the simpleton who forgot theirs. -Wall Outlet tester! They cost maybe $5 but could save you mega bucks! -A Furman Power Strip or other good surge protector with a long cable. -Male to female power cable extension or 3... doubles the length of your power cable. Better than having to borrow a 50ft extension chord to span a 5' gap. -Wrap some masking tape around your sharpie to make temporary labels (and it makes it YOUR Sharpie). -Small bottle of wood glue and a couple tooth picks in case the strap button comes loose. -A TRS Insert Cable: use a volume pedal as an expression pedal in a pinch. -Micro Fibers kept in a small case: keeps them clean. -Very short screw drivers for tight spots. -A short goose neck for a mic stand... especially handy if you sing backing vocals and they give you a straight stand. -Extra velcro never hurts. -A paint brush for dusting tight spots. -A small umbrella and a couple single use ponchos for your gear. -A plastic (non-marring) pry-ing tool for getting into your guitar or basses control cavity. Sometimes they don't come off easy. -A neck cradle and a "tech mat" (large mouse pad) in case you break a string while warming up or @ band practice. *Make a DIY neck cradle with a belt sander's radius at the end. Super easy. Don't forget to glue some padding and down... and some rubber on the bottom so it doesn't slide around.
Hahaha! As a drummer, I loved the drum key addition, really hilarious! ( well, it's not like we're not used to forget these things, hum). Great vid btw.
Just an added to the vehicle paint for your cables is to put florescent tape on your cables, case handles, mic stands, ect. I like florescent pink because most people would not use that color and it will definitely stand out in a low light situation.
If you're buying it as a gift and you're out of money you dont really need too buy ALL of those items. Just buy the absolute must-haves and they add items as they go.
A multimeter is a must!! to test continuity for cables, if you change power tubes and the amp has an external bias control you can do it on the spot, check for bad batteries or power supplies and most of all, when the backline owner doesn't know the impedance of the cabs and you want to use your own head (happened to me a bunch of times).
Love it! I completely keep a drum key in my guitar bag as well as batteries and adapters for the other members in the band. Great vid and great channel.
This is an amazing resource and while I feel like any guitar player who's done a gig can figure out what this stuff is for, someone buying FOR a guitar player probably doesn't. If someone I know saw this, they'd have no idea why I could possibly have a use for half this stuff. Maybe elaborate on each piece a bit more, if it's intended for people to buy for guitarist?
I keep an inexpensive power outlet tester in my bag, check the house power every time. It looks like a plug with no cord and has 3 LEDs,if you plug it in and the two yellows light, power is good to go, it will show if the hot and common are switched and if the ground is connected. If you play vintage amps, this stuff really matters, especially if you get your lips near a mic during a show.
I made a bass player toolbox.... Just a bong really.
comment of the week hahahahahaah
carlos mendes or beer. bass players seem to have beer everywhere...
I`'m ok with that. When can I get it?
a tattoo station
my bass player is straight edge what do I get him?
You forgot to include the Laser pointer to distract the bass player while youre repairing your guitar
Just tell them to go outside and find the back of a tree. That'll keep them occupied until soundcheck.
All these horror stories make me so happy to have a bass player who is actually good. While my band with him is primarily indie rock he is also a big jazz hound so that means he can actually play, believe it or not he actually changes his strings!
Rich Murphy I smell bs :P
I swear it's true! I have played with bassists like Glenn has described before no question, but I seriously lucked out with this one. Full disclosure: while he does change his strings, how often he changes them is pretty variable and I do make fun of him for that. Also his output jack crapped out on him at one point and of course I had to be the one to show him how to fix it, it wasn't before a gig or anything so it wasn't that big a deal; he subsequently checks that connection before every gig because he knows he'll never hear the end of it if that thing goes. More than a lot of bassists can say though.
Rich Murphy Haha im joking bro lol thats good that you found a good one though cause if finding a good guitarist and drummer is hard, a good bass player is even harder lol ive only met one lol
USB pen. There's been a few times when we've had sound guys record our set on their laptops and ask us if we want a copy.
MrHollahead best comment so far!
Great idea never thought of that one.
Thats actually pretty genius, never thought of that
A sharpie is a great idea. But I learned to bring a silver sharpie because I found I was writing on dark surfaces more often and the silver sharpies work great for that. Especially handy when someone asked us to sign our CD insert or black T shirt.
I'd also recommend a power strip, i've had way too many times when there weren't enough power outlets or they were too far away.
I know I'm late on this reply, but I second this. Power strips also protect from power surges, which keeps your gear safe. After blowing the fuses in my first amp, I've never plugged it directly into an outlet.
Take a shot every time glenn says "Cause you never know when you're gonna need it"
Ezra Dendy You're gonna cause someone to die of alcohoal posioning.
Fredegunde Stratton
Spare liver, because you never know when you're gonna need it.
DouchebagAtheist 31 why do you have a o nely academy pic
cause you never know when your gonna need it
At 7:20 I counted 5.
Gotta love it when Glenn says "You asked for it, you've got it!"
It's a nice kit for some basics, but if you want to step it up, you'll need a larger box. Keep a 15 foot extension cord, as well as a _50 foot_ extension cord. The 15 footer is for getting power to your pedal board all the way up at the front of the stage... the 50 footer is for those gigs when you show up and the only place to plug in is a lone outlet across the room because the event planner wasn't prepared for the needs of a band (this usually won't happen to you in a club, but it sometimes still will). Also, get a Furman noise-cancelling powerstrip. These are only $25, and they not only have a 15 foot power cord attached, but they also _cancel noise_, which is an amazing feature. Ya know how every time you stop playing for a second, your amp is buzzing and hissing loudly until you hit "standby?" Well in many cases, this item alone will solve that problem.
Additional stuff: Keep toothpicks in your box. These are for fixing strap buttons when they come loose, as they will if you play your instrument like a rock musician. When your strap button starts stripping out, and a screwdriver isn't enough to fix it, take the strap knob out, pop a tooth pick into the strap button hole, break it off so that the piece that remains is flush with the top of the hole, and then screw the strap button back in. If you dab some wood glue on the side of the screw as well, it will hold like a champ. Also, keep some spare strap locks in your box too in case you have the washer-type and the parts start acting up. In fact, to have all your bases covered, keep an extra guitar strap fitted with strap locks in the box for a quick change of strap if you ever need it.
Vise grips. These will come in handy in a variety of situations, I promise you.
Duct tape is fine, but honestly, gaffe tape is better. Get the black gaffe tape, and it will be incredibly effective for taping your cables down to the stage floor so that everyone isn't tripping over them, but unlike duct tape, it won't leave all that shitty, sticky residue all over your cables when you remove it.
FInally, keep some of your band's business cards in there. You probably won't be carrying them on your person all the time, and if you're any good, _someone_ will ask you for one (or at least they'll say "hey bruh, do you have a website?" in which case, "here's our card" is the best answer).
I'd add a handful of zip ties, they come in handy a lot and take up almost no space at all.
one other thing, don't forget your earplugs
good point
Joe Brown Question: What are the pros / cons of using them?
Pros: you don't go deaf, cons: you don't look METAL \M/
But in all seriousness always take earplugs to any concert that goes a bit loud, your later self will thank you
pros: you wont go deaf. cons: if they are high-quality then none
I never played live but i think pros would of course be protecting your hearing from loud noises (especially feedback, or if a mic malfunctions it can produce a loud feedback-like noise (also if there is a lot of people in a small enclosed space, people screaming can do some fucking hearing damage as well)). Cons would probably be not being able to hear high frequencies very clearly which can make a difference how your playing sounds to you. Again, I've never played live so i dont know for sure.
As a guitar tech,there are a few other things that should be in there in my opinion. Multimeter being a big one, larger screwdrivers (1/4in diameter ones are awesome for output jacks and trem claw screw),a crescent wrench,extra 22ga wire (you never know if you are going to need to rewire something/splice a lead),Electrical tape/shrink tube. and I always carry polish/lem oil/and extra polish cloths with me. Other than than that all awesome recommendations!
oh,forgot one of the other big ones for all that wiring,wire strippers,I know you can melt the plastic off of the wiring,but that just ends up being a gross mess a majority of the time.
Jesse Doubledee a small pack of amp fuses
This isn't exactly the stuff I carry, but why would anyone give this video a thumbs down? At some point I've needed everyone of those things at a time when running to a store wasn't possible. This isn't just a good idea, it's necessity if you're gigging.
+Jason Spencer I think those people bought a spider & are still pissed about my review :)
SpectreSoundStudios I mean the review wasn't perfect but you made my whole body cringe when I actually heard it compared to the good amp so good job 😅
I guess the thumbs down are for how low a studio can fall to advertise such things...
Maybe because they don't like the advertisement of graphicstock that he placed on his video, or they don't like the way he presents the "toolbox", or his voice, or even him.
Jason Spencer because all this is, is a modified tackle box if not a ordinary fishing tackle box unmodified loaded with guitar gear. That's why thumbs down.
Great idea!! That Trapt pick got me chuckling!!😂
+The Rusty Guitarist :)
Lil Question Glenn, do you have a deal with Purple Picks with a referral link or something like that? I'm on the market for a couple new picks and wouldn't mind supporting your channel using a referral for getting some sweet Purples.
SpectreSoundStudios I always carry 2 x 9v batteries because our bass player has 18V active pickups.
Extras I carry
* A BBQ lighter and some heat shrink - Too many cigarette lighters go missing, but a BBQ lighter is a little harder to pocket.
* spare capo
* a slide
* spare fuses
* spare pre tube 12AX7
_I also keep spare rectifier diodes. I've had my Bassman go south and it takes out the rectifiers first_
* Antiseptic spray. for dirty mics
* my own SM58 style mic. I use a JTS NX8. Too many shitty PAs and unhygienic mic cages
* Bottle Opener
* Gaff Tape - not just duct tape
* White electrical tape - for instant labeling of stuff
* #1 & #2 Phillips head drivers
* Good wire cutters
* Multimeter
* Small plug in tuner and lead - as the clip on tuners don't work when there is another band or instrument playing.
* Ear plugs
* Phone charger and leads
I also have a good quality Bosch blue cordless drill driver with a string winder and drum key attachment along with a collection of all the screwdriver bits I'll ever need, as well as brass hooks and tech screws
I keep a couple of spare guitar stands in the boot of the car
I also keep a modded overdrive pedal to give me a bit _more_ when I'm playing through someone elses rig.
Finally, some multi vitamins, as let's face it, the bass player always needs some B12
And I am a bass player, mostly, but I play guitar too....hence the overdrive pedal
So when I gig bass, I always have a spare bass, plus all the guitar crap, as you never know what someone will forget.
Chris Wilson Aren't bass players wannabe guitar players that just aren't good enough? :p
Hi Glenn,
thanks for the great compilation, this is very useful!
i actually use a old small military bagpack, because its easier to transport.
But there are a few things that i would put into the toolbox, because of experience:
- Earplugs... and spare Earplugs (because someone loses them all the time,... mostly me)
- multiple switched socket-outlet with a long cable (believe me, if you have it, you need it every gig)
- small first aid kit (band-aid, aspirin, voltaren, desinfect spray & sore throat pills)
- more spare batteries: 9V, AA & AAA (if one battery dies, all the others tend to get suicidal )
- a Towel + a spare T-shirt (if you dont know where the next shower is, babywipes are useful too)
- isolation-tape, double-sided adhesive tape & markertape (nothing to explain here... )
- phasing tester (!!!!!!!)
- Drumsticks (the cheapest, so he learns his lession ;) )
- Lighter, chewing gum, waterbottle and a book to read
Honestly, even if you don't use some of this stuff like a MIDI cable, somebody else at a show might. And being the band that saves the day turns you into the cool guys, and really could help you out in the future. Whether it's booking a show, or finding a place to crash on your next tour, being prepared, and being the dudes that averted disaster for a gig would probably go a long way in making good impressions and connections.
Probably the coolest thing I got this year. Between my studio headed brother and my sweet old Mom, they got together and put a guitar players tool kit together for me, very cool.
I would add 2 more things Ear Plugs, and some fuses just in case. And for Lead guitarist a mirror and a box of tissues \m/
This is hands down one of the best videos you've done. Thank you for taking the time to make a very complete guitarist toolkit and share it with the world. I'll be referring a lot of people to this.
Subscribed about 2 weeks ago.. Now I find myself waiting for new videos to come out every day. Greetings from germany!!
*****
Watched them all already :)
Oh, I didn't know that. Thanks mate, I'll definitely check it out
Great set of suggestions Glenn. The deodorant stick is a new one to me. I generally keep myself clean apply an adequate amount before heading out the door, so without it becoming as issue. You put together a good basic kit.
I've got my E-kit in a rectangular corduroy bag with a bunch of zipper pockets on the outside and a few smaller divided compartments on the inside. I carry what you do plus a bit that has the snap connector for the 9v battery on one end, about 5 inches cable and the Boss style center ground plug on the other that lets ya plug the 9v battery into the pedal without having to yank it off the board or open it up. It's great for trouble shooting which one is the bad power lead that runs from the PS to each cable or is part of the daisy chain to each cable with a One Spot. They used to cost about $8-$10 to buy. I've made my own for a few years now, so I'm not real sure on what they go for now.
Also as you are smart to carry just about every common cable, a few of those power leads that run to each pedal are not a bad idea to have. A cable tester is another item in my possibles bag as well as a power strip and a 3-wire, 25 foot extension chord. I also bought one of those EHX 44 Magnum amp pedals and a turbo distortion pedal for my bag. Why? Because when one of the guitarists' blows their amp in the middle of the set because the term "basic maintenance" is not in their vocabulary, the two pedals make a bitchin' back up amp that plugs into the cab with the still smoldering head sitting on it and it'll get the gig to completion. I've got a spare SM57 and SM58 in my bag too as well as some cymbal nuts, felt washers, nuts, screws, springs (for the kick drum pedal), a few of the common nuts bits and screws for everything else, assorted fuses for the amps, keyboards and whatever else needs them. I also have a roll of electric tape and a roll of painters tape, an Emory board, a few on the 4x4 squares of asstd grit sand paper, a piece of 000 steel wool, some inexpensive common size nut and bridge saddle files, a 35 mm film can with baking soda, some low viscosity CA glue (for emergency nut or bridge saddle repair) and some 5 min epoxy. Oh, a roll of 24 gauge stranded cord wire, a vial of nut lube, a small box of dental floss, and and a basic multi-meter.
I mentioned what I have with me as I carry some things that can prove essential for the other musicians to put in their personal kits. I was in a band for a few years, up until just recently, where I was the band member that carried what was needed to keep the band running through a gig regardless of the technical issues. Paraphrasing what you said, better to be prepared than right. From a couple of decades of past experience, I learned to bring what was needed to start and finish the gig when something broke. Everything in my bag has proven needful. It doesn't matter what instrument I've played in the various bands and projects that I've been a member of. I just believe that ensuring a technologically glitch free gig is as important in some respects as it is for me to know my parts, my cues to my bandmates and their cued to me. Oh, and in this particular band, I was the bass player. Keep up making and sharing these eminently helpful and informative videos.
How about a spray bottle? Keeps the drummer and bass player away from breakable equipment.
Spare cables are a sick idea because from personal experience of being a guitar player - we are too cheap to even replace our main cable that doesn't have a good connection anymore. Perhaps soldering wick would also be handy, you never know what kind of a mess faces you inside electronics cavity (because let's face it, you bought it second hand and someone had replaced the pickups and electronics). I've had a bit of bad luck with those multikey allen tools, they got bent and always felt like snapping, it was also a bit difficult to reach all places necessary. But it's a great idea for emergency. Deoxit is something you probably wanted to use for maintenance at home already, to get inside your amp, but in a pinch you gotta do what you gotta do. Big thumbs up at all the screwdrivers, cutters and pliers. Maybe even a couple of short wires if let's say your output jack has a shitty wire that just dies.
Tubes are a great idea as well, can't count how many stories you hear of tubes popping mid gig or the amp getting bumped and breaking a tube. As long as you know your amp is happy to take that pair of power tubes without further adjustment. On the same note, a spare fuse! If you do something stupid in a place that has poor power wiring and pop a fuse, it's a really simple but annoying fix if you don't have one. As long as the amp isn't faulty and popping a fuse because of that, of course.
Almost forgot the most important one: a couple of packs of those disposable ear plugs that you can buy on some gigs. You want to protect your hearing and your bandmate's hearing as well. That's something you don't get back and maybe you're allowed to turn the amps loud enough to need them too.
For guitar players I'd also suggest condoms. Bass players don't need them - nobody's gonna leave with them and they don't know how to use it anyway.
you forgot condoms
whaaaa!!!!!??????? LOL..
You forgot your common sence
For what?
Hey, no point bringing supplies for the lead singer
Too good I'm a bass player, so one less thing to buy!
This video has been watched over 6000 times. 1000 of those are probably mine, I find this and the drummers tackle box video satisfying to watch. I’m a big nerd about this stuff. I took a lot of your ideas and used them myself and through the years I changed it a little as I found out in the field that my requirements were slightly different and there were a few things in there that I’d never use. Hats off to you my friend as you had some awesome ideas but I’m sure you will agree that everyone’s tool box will be a personal thing. Rock on man, I’d love to see another one of these videos.
Band aids are very useful. We've cut ourselves while playing before and it's always helpful to have something to patch it up so youre not bleeding everywhere. Unless youre that metal af, then go ahead 😂👌🤘
Even if you're metal as fuck. Infections n stuff......
when you are metal AF, you can use the soldering iron to patch yourself, not that bitch sticker
Don't need them, you already have crazy glue.
Do a kit for base players. Include an alarm clock, a dictionary, bass for dummies book......
Lmao
Buffer Zone at least most bass players can correctly spell "bass players."
All you got. ? Wow im insulted. lol
What I recommend instread of needlenose pliers and an army knife is a leatherman multitool. Theyre not extremely expensive and definately worth having as a guitar player
Yea we need a bass players toolkit.
Foas
One hammer
Foas A cyanide capsule.
kidding
Foas - A bass players toolkit wouldn't be that much different, except there would be more weed paraphernalia and the $20 would have been bummed from someone, used to buy new ear plugs, and replaced with an IOU for your future self to deal with.
Bleach
Meth*
I wonder what a bass players and singers tool box's have in them.
They'll count on the drummer and guitar player to have their Official Glenn Fricker Toolboxes at the ready. ;)
w00dmii5t3r
for the bassplayer: a bong
for the vocalist: beer, and condoms.
uKultuR Gaming And in my singer's case, hair product.
w00dmii5t3r Dildo and a buttplug
More seriously, for singer:
Spare windscreen for microphone
passable spare microphone
Spare microphone cable
Spare AA bats for wireless (and buy them morning of gig, don't leave in box for 5 years and expect them to be good)
Throat Coat/peppermint Zinger tea, insulated not plastic mug, single cup immersion heater
Lemon drops/Bag of cough drops/peppermint hard candies
(digital?) pitch pipe for warmup - Everybody's got to be in tune
Black gaffer's tape
clean T-shirt in gallon Ziploc bag for after show
Drum key, capo, spare picks, other stuff that the other knuckleheads in the band will forget
spare set of keys to the van
Hi Glenn, I have a additional toolbox for open-air gigs.
It contains
- a few pieces of wood about 3x4 cm across and 40cm in length. Very handy to keep your rig from drowning on a wet stage or just balance things on uneven ground.
- a 4x5m tarpaulin with lugs and a hasp of clothline for a makeshift shelter
- a few packages of cheap thin tarpaulin. I prepare a strip of that which lies neatly folded behind my gear, just in case... This saved my rig once when there were about 45 sec between the first droplets and heavy downpour: stop playing, cut power, guitar on the stand, stand in front of amp, pull foil over rig, DONE. Run for cover.
- a dry T-shirt in a watertight wrapper.
- a foldable umbrella
- (finally) a small bottle of booze, if everything failed and all thats left of your amp are some bubbles on the muddy surface in the swamp.
greetings
bb
I bring most of these things but I would recommend two additions, FINGERNAIL CLIPPERS! And super glue. It would really suck to show up at a gig and realize that you forgot to trim your nails, which can really screw up your playing. As a guitar player and clean person in general, I always keep my fingernails trimmed but I wouldn't want to take the chance. And the super glue comes in handy if you have a painful cuticle, or just need to stick something quick. =)
Josh Robinson I keep a small one in my gig bag just in case... :)
Josh Robinson talking about a nail clipper
I'd say ditch the clippers and just get a small medkit (just the really important stuff). I used the scissors you usually get in one of those kits as nail scissors and they can fuck up your nails, but if you take nail clippers your brain is going to put nails in the background because you have stuff on hand, but if you have to use those scissors you're gonna think about it at home. Additionally the medkit can come in handy if you slice your finger somehow, or manage to stab yourself in the thumb, but don't want to cause trouble. You also never know if the place, you're playing at, has those available even though they need to have it.
Agree on the Nail Clippers . . . and I always have a Small Nail File ( metal ) which can also be used for other repairs in an emergency. Small Magnet to retrieve loose screws when changing batteries or doing repairs. Multi-Tool to check Battery Voltage and Cable Continuity *****
Here's a nifty thing to add to your kit. If you buy a 4 pack of Grolsch beer they come in these awesome little growler style bottles, take the red gasket off the tops before pitching the bottle and you can use them to help secure your guitar straps to the strap pegs better. I learned this little trick over 10 years ago and I still to this day keep a handful of these gasket to use as strap locks. plus they work for many other little DYI projects and you get to drink beer in the process of getting them.
An American $20 bill, but aren't you a Canadian?
Windsor is right next to Detroit and gets alot of visitors from MI (I've been wanting to go for awhile) so that might be why. Perhaps in Windsor they treat the two currencies the same lol.
tomrogue13 we don't treat them the same but many businesses will accpet both and banks exchange back and forth
Bwah, even here in Belgium you often won't have an issue paying in Dollars rather then Euro's.
enlightendbel but alot of places in the states won't accept canadian money.
I live on the border & Detroit is a great place to visit.
Some type of small modeler pedal can be a life saver in a bind. Even (dare I say it) a used Line 6 Pocket Pod. It will still sound better than Guitar>pedal board>DI>Mixer. I have found myself in the situation years ago where the output transformer blew mid gig in my Marshall, and I had to finish the gig with my tubescreamer straight to the board. How I wish I had a tiny modeler in that instance. Hell, get a $20 guitar-phone adapter and download Amplitube to your phone.
aaron kerr I have a quilter.micro block in case an Amp shots the bed. But this is a better idea, for it has can sims
Live sound engineer toolkit would be a great video too.
It would be far more expensive but invaluable in the long run.
Ken Barlow or include a live sound engineer in the guitarist toolbox, that would be handy too.
Had a guitar toolbox for years, one of the best things I ever did. The superglue in a pot and the contact cleaner are excellent ideas, will be adding them to the box.
I recommend keeping an el cheapo multi-meter in there too. It makes trouble shooting electrical problems 100x faster.
Great video.
Old Spice man hey?
Got good taste :p
Degree ftw.
Frankie Dingleberry axe all the way
AmazinRazin 123 I'm a Gillette man myself.
Frankie Dingleberry deodorant isn't for eating.
Old Spice rulez!
I use the hidden money trick. I make a "plus" shape with it, and tape the middle off, so there is no glue there. fold up my money, attach three of the legs of the tape, put in my money, and put on the last leg. that way, I have a pocket for my money, that I can take out the money without ruining bills. I also use it for picks. I people love stealing picks.
I also like to bring two tuner pegs of the same model as is on my guitar(s). Sometimes the tuners actually just breaks, even name-brand tuners break eventually. 3 different sizes of multitools, and two types of box cutters. This is simply because the bigger ones are easier to handle, but having the benefit of reaching into tiny places, helps alot.
Thanks for the video anyways, got some stuff I need to pick up now :)
Nobody noticed TRAPT pick??
Very helpful video. I agree that it's better to have something and not need it. A few things that I would add: Gaffer's tape is much better than duct tape. Doesn't leave residue and is easier to write on. They make it in glow-in-the-dark, which is great. Put tape over the contacts of your 9v, they can short out and drain if both contacts touch something metal. Zip ties -- can never have enough of those; I recommend a head lamp instead of (or in addition to) the flashlight. Hands free is a good thing; Small hex wrenches. I find that the standard sets don't have small enough wrenches to adjust saddles, etc.; Definitely ear plugs, as I've seen mentioned; Small notepad to jot down ideas/reminders; Handkerchief or towel to wipe sweat off (napkins leave klingons); if you play acoustic, spare bridge pins; business cards, flyers, demo cds, usb sticks with your epk, etc.; I also use a small screwdriver to etch into the metal of cable ends, microphones, since it can't be wiped off; Gum. I also put business cards in every bag, container and case in case they get lost. I also hide additional cards in cases so I can prove I own something. Keep up the good work!
A toothbrush is also a good thing to have, its good for cleaning guitar bridges and any other hard to reach places on the guitar.
this is something I learned that I think any musician can use. Buy an outdoor brand backpack, one of their really small, compact hiking packs are great. you can fill it with anything you need for anyone. I've carried stuff for my entire band at times, along with my drummer's tool box of course. But those bags are rugged, they store a lot and they will last you a long time and really lessen your grief
Bass player one: just a box with a bass playing for dummies book.
Other guitarist brought the bong. Drummer brought the brews. That required work to organize.
Darth Green and an empty pack of strings
"for dummies" is a bit redundant isn't it?
Where's the weed, tobacco, whiskey, and Gameboy Color with Pokemon Red?
Definitely going to get a toolbox and these items for my birthday. Thanks for putting out this video Glenn! It really helped me out.
Add gun of preference if you live in 'murica.
That automotive paint thing is a good idea. I've personally been using a roll of bright pink Duck Tape and wrapping it around various things - cables, guitar stands, mic stands, mics, the bass player's mouth, even on guitar cases. Probably won't work if everybody starts to identify their gear with the same colour of tape, but hopefully if someone's trying to walk out with a Fender Strat, they're going to choose one of the unmarked cases rather than the one with an obvious, bright pink stripe.
probably good idea to have a set of metric and standard sizes of Allen keys
Awesome video Glen! Awesome! I think every guitar player should make one of these. It can save you life! I've got one and it grows every time with different kind of useful things. Thanks again and rock on!
I also noticed the Trapt guitar pick, be careful! They might get angry and accuse you of using their logo to make money! Lol
Few additional items to consider:
1.) Adjustable wrench or a few common size sockets/driver handle just in case something comes loose (i.e. input jack / pots / tuner bushings),
2:) With the hex keys keep a set of both imperial and metric, or at the minimum be sure that you have the correct ones for your guitar(s)
3:) If you have a GIbson or guitar with a similar style truss rod make sure to have the right wrench for that as hex keys aren't going to help
4:) Final thing is a small ruler that measures down to a minimum 1/32" (1/64" is ideal) so you can adjust the action with some precision in the event the guitar shifts due to humidity/temp swings. (Obviously this is more for those that are going to travel to gigs more regularly and/or gigging in outdoor venues)
Overall though a solid collection of essentials! Thanks!
Vocalist tool kit! Screw it. do one for everybody.
Hair spray, nail polish, a mirror and a vegan sandwich,
Giovannii Gomes Fair enough.
a voice!
Ethan Smith That's a good start!
a tiara
My guitar player and I (I am a bassist) carry a lot of the same things. Spare strings, picks, batteries, cables, tools, flashlights, tape, markers, microphone. I also carry a spare set of IEM's just in case (the drummer tends to break his). I keep a soldering iron and solder in the car, but bring a spare bass into the venue (which I rarely need). We also bring a spare amp head.
Great idea Glenn! I don't have any friends tho... so i'm making one for myself :D
Glenn, cheers from San Diego and I love your channel. I recently upgraded the tuners on my SG and went with the Planet Waves locking tuners. They are extremely smooth, eliminate any winding when swapping strings, and my personal favorite feature is the built-in excess string cutters! U have to see it. Keep up the great work!
Why not add an small towel?
my road kit includes what you mentioned, mostly, plus spare earplugs, aspirin, pepto (you don't want to have the runs in the middle of a gig), micropore tape, a hand towel, wire stripping pilers, a cheap multimeter (because cables may fall and you don't want to blow up an amp because of a false contact), and paper towels (learn it las gig when my bassist poured a whole beer can over my guitar).
I'm a bass player and looking for something similar. I'm assuming it'd be mostly the same stuff, but also the ever important "Bass Player to English Dictionary" so that my band can understand what I'm talking about?
As a car mechanic and guitar player this hits the spots, love guitars, love tools.
I'm one of those people who if you give a sharpie to without a cap, will just throw it away or leave it somewhere. At least you're right about people not wanting one without a cap though ;) ;) ;)
+FoxWood you know where you can put that Sharpie.
+FoxWood I carry a flask of butyric acid specifically for those kinds of assholes
You seem like someone I'll definitely avoid
Great kit and another great video! One small tip for you; I suggest keeping the terminals of the 9 volt battery covered to guard against accidental discharge if the battery comes to rest against a metal tool in just the right (wrong) way. I keep my spare 9 volt in an old pill bottle.
any suggestions for a quality value soldering iron? I was considering getting a decent one with variable temp for the home, but a compact one such as the one in your kit would be choice for on the road
For home better get one with temperature stabilisation. And make sure that there are spare tips available for the model you chose - those fancy coated fuckers tend to die every now and then (get a few of them before you leave the store).
For the road - any cheap one will do. Even with copper tip. Just make sure it's at least 50-60W.
+1 No idea what's good.
Hakko FX-888, the non-digital version if you can find it (I think, sadly it's discontinued and you can only buy the digital one now)
As an electrical engineer, Hakko make some of the best around if you can find one (I think they're a little easier to get a hold of in the US than here in the UK), but Antex make some good budget options, they do a compact variable one, the temperature range isn't great (but good enough for most applications), but mine has a little screw to set the temperature.
Don't buy a cheap Amazon one though, you'll regret it, 99% of them come with a horrible needle tip that won't take a tinning, you want a small-ish chisel tip.
Great stuff. I just made ( Jan 2019 ) an Extensive Guitar Toolbox for: not only Gigs, but for Maintenance & Repairs and also Polishing and F-One Oil and the Nomad Dual Cleaning Tool.
spare ground tester plug
Glenn. Your TH-cam’s are becoming underground musician gospel, Mano. Thanks for sharing such great knowledge from the school of hard knocks in your punk-ass upstart style (needed on soooo many levels). My amazon wishlist hasn’t seen so many adds since I tried to upgrade my garage. Lead Guitarist tool kit shirt is friggin gold, too.
A few suggestions for additions:
-10mm and 11mm open-end box end wrenches for tuning key and input jack jamnut tightening (or whatever sizes for stuff on your guitar(s)). These are the sizes in my squire strat I’m upgrading. If u prefer sockets, get deep ones. Needlenose work in a pinch, but slip n scratch is very likely, particularly if you’re sweaty and under pressure to complete the fix in a noisy, poorly lit club or something;
- $2.50 in US quarters and a couple of dimes. Tape up a couple of stacks - stuff em in your tremolo cavity - Work as a tremolo lock in a pinch if you broke a string or otherwise can’t get your floating bridge to behave. Fit nicely in a prescription bottle. Best to size the stacks and tape them ahead to make sure you get your bridge in the right position. This can be a pain to do on the spot. “Hey, who’s flingin’ quarters?!”
- Trick from an old Dan Erlewine article: Book of matches. If you strip a screw, trim off the tip section of a match and trim to fit in the stripped hole. It’ll keep the screw from stripping out. I’ve also used shards from a chop stick I smooshed with a set of pliers.
- a small bundle of paracord. Every tool kit needs this. If only to impress your urban survivalist buddies if nothing else. Bonus- Better than guitar stings for strangling the sound guy.
XLR Cable could be _very_ useful as well
Spare fuse for your amp (I've had one blow during soundcheck before) , earplugs, power strip and extension cable. And if you are carrying a drum key, you might as well keep a set of sticks too.
I'm a little ocd so I have car cleaning supplies to clean my guitars and at home I have my buffers and wax and compounds so to fix clearcoat or paint I always have everything I need
Until you are flicking the light switch off and on exactly 10 times every time before you leave a house to stop your best friend from getting hit by a car and dying on the spot, then no, you don't have OCD. Not even a little.
Sorry, people faking or not even knowing about the mental illness they claim to have, just triggers me pretty hard.
stormx173 really because ocd according to psychology today's definition can mean as little as repeated thoughts,in which I do have repeated unpleasant thoughts of fingerprints,scratches,etc etc, I detailed cars for magazines and car shows throughout the US and so that's why I'm so picky on the appearance of everything, go ahead,look up the definition, Google is an amazing tool,learn to use it
Ok. Do these unpleasent thoughts feel like they arent really yours, and if you dont follow through a random thought you get very anxious and maybe even start panicking (or any other negative effect for that matter, you might even feel physically sick?)? Serious questions now. if that is the case you should probably get help, if not, well you are probably just normal and you just like having things look nice.
'I'd rather have a show than be right' That is the winning attitude
Best to have the batteries in a little box to prevent discharge.
Brisdad53 True, if nothing else goes in the box or section. But not worth the risk if you want them when you need them.
One thing I'd like to add is a list of everything in the box as well as a list of he guitarists rig, including cables. This just ensures that you didn't forget anything at a gig.
I love how you use Mythbusters to try and get people to have their own duct tape.
Guess some people need convincing to have duct tape on hand.
TheCrimsonIdol987 yeah but I don't think Jamie and Adam from Mythbusters is the right way to convince people. The shit they do haha.
I'd add two things to that list:
- Masking Tape (I had to Google the name, look for "Cinta de carrocero" to know exactly what I meant)
Ideal if you need to mute strings or string noise in your bridge and nut, it doesn't destroy your guitar's paintjob and it doesn't leave behind sticky marks.
- GHS Fast Fret, because that shit is just soooo nice (and it helps cleaning afterwards as well!)
This can be replaced with the Dunlop Maintenance kit.
Great video and tips!
I would have a Sm57 in mine :)
why
Osmium Studios yeah, you never know if you're going to play at a venue with shitty mics. Good point
Osmium Studios sm58 all the way
Micah Hobson completely different uses, not comparable is like saying you'd rather use a semi than a prius
kolby bell so 2 vocal microphones are non comparable?
I'm happy I watched your video.I have much more stuff in my music room but never considered doubling up and bringing a box of junk with me when I'm invited to my friends gig's.I guarantee the fist time I forget to bring it with me would now be when it was needed most to avoid a good enough showing! Rock-On brudda.... TKX
I wondered why the drum key hahaha!
Great video! Been doing this since the 80's on all my gigs. I always carry a gig bag, or small duffle bag with damn near "everything" in it. You can almost guarantee that you'll need something from that bag before your gig is done!
Do one for bass players, inside there is only a brain.
Don't forget the laser pointer. ;)
recommended items for a bass player tool kit:
-amp
-bass
-strings
-cables
-rule #2 shirt
-maybe a change of diapers and a pacifier
Bass players toolbox is kinda similar, just without all the stuff and things....
Awesome! Can you also do a soundengineers toolbox somewhere in the future? I'm making my own atm and would love to get some great ideas!
The biggest one I didn't see was a set of emergency guitar strings. As a guitarist, that should be in any guitar player's tool box! I would also say a small can of wood cleaner if you're on the road to keep your guitar clean and your neck moisturized. Also, philips screwdriver! Your backplates, pickguard, and string trees use philips heads! A small one for those and a big one for your neck joint (if you have a bolt-on guitar). I would recommend a big flathead too if you have the space because they also can come in handy!
+Mandilore guitar strings included. Watch the whole video please!
Mandilore num-nutz
Sorry, I missed the part about the guitar strings. I see it now.
There are some things a studio/audio engineer should NOT be expected to provide.
If we do then a installation/penalty fee does apply.
This is for a Guitar Player's Tool Box dude.
Only one thing missing - A set of drum sticks ! - ( I have guitar picks, and amp fuses in my drummers toolbox )
Why do you have freedom dollars in your toolbox. Shouldn't you be using monopoly money?
Very comprehensive tool box! The only thing I'd add is some spare fuses for your amp (and your bass players amp).
I would suggest a spray deodorant over stick. Imagine having to share it with your sweaty-ass bandmates. GROSS!
+Bjorn Caffe yeah, but the bass player will burn his face off lighting a bong at the same time.
^^
+SpectreSoundStudios Providing you record it for uploading to TH-cam and laughing at, what's the problem with that?. Mind you, they'll probably huff the propellant...Firebreathing bass player!
SpecterSoundStuidos Yeah... you made that joke in the last video.
***** Deostick aside, More than _half_ of the things in this toolbox are for other people including yourself, so what's your point?
I would add some spare jacks for the cables, a Capo, a cloth and something to clean fretboard/strings with like those bottles that dunlop sells, never thought about making a toolbox, awesome video Glen!
don't forget ear plugs! protect your ears, guys. seriously
With the exception of the $20 bill, the soldering iron, solder, and the power amp tubes, that box pretty much mirrors my back pack solution. I'm one of the people who uses nail polish, the automobile paint pen is a great idea. Less chance of mess. I do carry the drum key for the reason you give in the video.
Just buy a Ibanez prestige multi tool.
I second the earplugs suggestion! (and some throw aways... b/c who loans out ear plugs?)
Some other bits that can be life savers (apologies for any redundancies):
-Most important: a hideous, deeply shaming strap for the simpleton who forgot theirs.
-Wall Outlet tester! They cost maybe $5 but could save you mega bucks!
-A Furman Power Strip or other good surge protector with a long cable.
-Male to female power cable extension or 3... doubles the length of your power cable. Better than having to borrow a 50ft extension chord to span a 5' gap.
-Wrap some masking tape around your sharpie to make temporary labels (and it makes it YOUR Sharpie).
-Small bottle of wood glue and a couple tooth picks in case the strap button comes loose.
-A TRS Insert Cable: use a volume pedal as an expression pedal in a pinch.
-Micro Fibers kept in a small case: keeps them clean.
-Very short screw drivers for tight spots.
-A short goose neck for a mic stand... especially handy if you sing backing vocals and they give you a straight stand.
-Extra velcro never hurts.
-A paint brush for dusting tight spots.
-A small umbrella and a couple single use ponchos for your gear.
-A plastic (non-marring) pry-ing tool for getting into your guitar or basses control cavity. Sometimes they don't come off easy.
-A neck cradle and a "tech mat" (large mouse pad) in case you break a string while warming up or @ band practice.
*Make a DIY neck cradle with a belt sander's radius at the end. Super easy. Don't forget to glue some padding and down... and some rubber on the bottom so it doesn't slide around.
that Fucking shirt! lol epic as fark!
yeah man!
Hahaha! As a drummer, I loved the drum key addition, really hilarious! ( well, it's not like we're not used to forget these things, hum). Great vid btw.
jesus christ put tape over that 9v battery before you short it out
Just an added to the vehicle paint for your cables is to put florescent tape on your cables, case handles, mic stands, ect. I like florescent pink because most people would not use that color and it will definitely stand out in a low light situation.
Makes a great millionaire gift lmao.
If you're buying it as a gift and you're out of money you dont really need too buy ALL of those items. Just buy the absolute must-haves and they add items as they go.
A multimeter is a must!! to test continuity for cables, if you change power tubes and the amp has an external bias control you can do it on the spot, check for bad batteries or power supplies and most of all, when the backline owner doesn't know the impedance of the cabs and you want to use your own head (happened to me a bunch of times).
3 minutes in and I'll say it already...this is genius! Great ideas!
Love it! I completely keep a drum key in my guitar bag as well as batteries and adapters for the other members in the band. Great vid and great channel.
This is an amazing resource and while I feel like any guitar player who's done a gig can figure out what this stuff is for, someone buying FOR a guitar player probably doesn't. If someone I know saw this, they'd have no idea why I could possibly have a use for half this stuff. Maybe elaborate on each piece a bit more, if it's intended for people to buy for guitarist?
I keep an inexpensive power outlet tester in my bag, check the house power every time. It looks like a plug with no cord and has 3 LEDs,if you plug it in and the two yellows light, power is good to go, it will show if the hot and common are switched and if the ground is connected. If you play vintage amps, this stuff really matters, especially if you get your lips near a mic during a show.