When it comes to playing guitar, we often focus on the instrument itself and the amplifier that powers our sound. However, there are a few underrated accessories that can make a significant difference in both your practice routine and overall enjoyment. Today, I want to share three essential accessories that have become indispensable in my guitar-playing journey.

1. The Guitar Stand Stool: Comfort Meets Performance

The first accessory on my list is the humble guitar stand stool. Often associated with classical guitarists, this bench offers incredible comfort and support, especially for those of us who spend a lot of time playing while seated. As a dedicated bedroom guitarist, I’ve found that this stool helps me maintain a better posture, allowing me to practice longer without discomfort.

Despite its low price, typically ranging from $15 to $20 for a decent quality stool, the benefits it offers are undeniable. It’s a small investment that can greatly enhance your practice sessions, making it easier to focus on playing rather than adjusting your position constantly.

2. A High-Quality Guitar Cable: The Unsung Hero of Your Setup

Next up is a high-quality guitar cable, an accessory that many guitarists overlook, especially in the beginning. I used to be guilty of using any old cable I had lying around, not realizing the impact it could have on my sound. That all changed one day when I started picking up radio signals through my amp—a problem traced back to a poor-quality, unshielded cable. Since then, I’ve learned the importance of investing in a good cable.

For as little as $25, you can significantly improve your sound quality and avoid unwanted noise or interference. Or you can pay 10 times that price for a premium cable:

While you can splurge on premium options like a Lava Cable for $240, it’s not necessary to spend that much. Just avoid the cheap, low-quality cables that can ruin your tone. Remember, you’ve invested in a good guitar and amp—don’t let a bad cable compromise your sound.

3. Sony MDR-7506 Headphones: Pure, Unaltered Sound

Finally, let’s talk about what you’ll be using to listen. As someone who practices in a shared space, a good pair of quality headphones is essential to avoid disturbing others. But not just any pair will do. You really need to look for a professional-grade option. However, that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank.

I’ve been using the Sony MDR-7506, a hundred-dollar professional-grade model that provides a true and unaltered audio signal. They deliver a faithful reproduction of the sound without boosting the bass or altering the frequencies, which is crucial when you want to hear your guitar’s true tone. These excellent headphones are an investment well worth it for the high fidelity and comfort they provide. This particular model is a true gem that a sound engineer recommended to me, and I use them for many hours every single day. And they’re available worldwide.

Conclusion: Small Accessories, Big Impact

These three accessories— the guitar stand stool, a quality guitar cable, and a decent professional-grade headphones —have greatly enhanced my guitar-playing experience. They may seem like minor additions, but they’ve made a significant difference in my comfort, sound quality, and overall enjoyment. If you’re looking to improve your practice sessions, I highly recommend giving these a try.