How to Get Harmonic Sounds from an Electric Guitar

Getting those sweet, screaming harmonics from your electric guitar can feel like unlocking a secret level in a video game. Whether you're into the gritty chugs of thrash metal or the soaring solos of progressive metal, harmonics can add a unique texture and flair to your playing. So, let's talk about how you can make your guitar sing with those distinctive harmonic sounds.

Natural Harmonics: The Basics

Natural harmonics are a fantastic entry point for anyone looking to spice up their guitar playing. They're like the hidden gems on your fretboard, and they don't require much more than a light touch and some precision.

To play a natural harmonic, gently touch the string directly above a fret (like the 5th, 7th, or 12th fret) without pressing it down. Pluck the string and then lightly lift your finger away. You'll hear a bell-like tone, which is the harmonic. Easy, right? Well, sort of.

Here are some tips to nail those natural harmonics:

• Position is Key: Make sure your finger is centered over the fret wire, not in between the frets. The more precise your finger placement, the clearer the harmonic will sound.
• Light Touch: Use just enough pressure to touch the string without pressing it down to the fretboard. Think of it like brushing a feather across the string.
• Pick Attack: Use a firm pick attack to help the harmonic ring out. A sharp, quick strike often gets the best results.

Natural harmonics can easily be incorporated into metal riffs and solos. They add a layer of complexity and can make your playing stand out. If you're curious about how some of the pros pull this off, Riffhard has some excellent lessons from top metal guitarists who use harmonics extensively.

Pinch Harmonics: The Squeal Factor

If you've ever heard Zakk Wylde or Dimebag Darrell, you've probably noticed those ear-piercing squeals that make you go, "How on earth did they do that?" Welcome to the world of pinch harmonics!

Pinch harmonics are a bit trickier than natural ones, but they're incredibly rewarding. Here's how you can start experimenting with them:

• Thumb and Pick Position: Hold your pick so that just a tiny bit of the tip is exposed. The fleshy part of your thumb should be close to the edge of the pick.
• Strike and Pinch: As you pick the string, let the side of your thumb lightly graze the string. The combination of the pick and thumb striking the string produces the harmonic.
• Sweet Spot Search: Different spots along the string will yield different harmonics, so practice by striking the string at various points between the neck and bridge to find those sweet spots.

Pinch harmonics can be challenging at first, but once you get the hang of it, they're incredibly satisfying. They add an aggressive, high-pitched flair to your playing that's perfect for metal genres.

If you're more of a visual learner, check out the video lessons on Riffhard for step-by-step guidance from guitarists who have mastered this technique.

Artificial Harmonics: A Studio Trick

Artificial harmonics are another way to get those complex, melodic tones usually found in studio recordings. While they're not as commonly used in live settings, they can be a powerful tool in your guitar arsenal.

Here's how you can work with artificial harmonics:

• Fretting: Start by fretting a note as usual.
• Harmonic Touch: Use your picking hand to lightly touch a point on the string that is an octave higher than the fretted note.
• Pick: Use the pick to pluck the string while maintaining the light touch on the harmonic point.

This technique requires some practice to get the timing and touch just right, but it's a great way to add variety to your playing. It’s particularly useful in recording settings where the nuances of artificial harmonics can be captured more effectively.

Artificial harmonics can be a bit elusive at first. If you want to dive deeper into this technique, Riffhard offers lessons that break down these steps in a clear and concise manner.

Tapping Harmonics: Beyond the Basics

Tapping harmonics combine the flashiness of tapping with the ethereal sound of harmonics. This technique might remind you of Eddie Van Halen's iconic solos or some of the more intricate progressive metal riffs.

To execute tapping harmonics, follow these steps:

• Fret a Note: Start by fretting a note on the neck with your fretting hand.
• Tap the Harmonic: With your picking hand, tap a point on the string that is an octave or other harmonic interval above the fretted note.
• Quick Release: Quickly lift your tapping finger off the string to let the harmonic ring out.

Once you get the hang of it, tapping harmonics can create a sound that's both unique and captivating. They add a layer of sophistication to solos and are a great way to impress your audience.

If you're eager to explore this technique further, Riffhard has lessons from top guitarists who use tapping harmonics in their playing.

Using Harmonics in Metal Riffs

Now that you've got the hang of the different types of harmonics, you might be wondering how to incorporate them into your metal riffs. The key here is to experiment and find what works best for your style.

Here are a few ideas to get started:

• Accent Notes: Use harmonics to accentuate specific notes within a riff, giving it a unique flavor and making it stand out.
• Transition Effects: Add harmonics at the end of a riff section to create a smooth transition into the next part.
• Contrast and Dynamics: Alternate between power chords and harmonics to create contrast and dynamics in your playing.

Incorporating harmonics into your riffs can add a layer of complexity and creativity that will make your playing more engaging. For more ideas and inspiration, check out the metal guitar lessons on Riffhard.

Harmonics and Effects: The Perfect Combo

Combining harmonics with guitar effects can open up a whole new world of sonic possibilities. Whether you're using distortion, delay, or reverb, effects can enhance the sound of harmonics and make them even more impactful.

Here are some ways to experiment with effects and harmonics:

• Distortion: Use distortion to emphasize the harmonics, making them more prominent and aggressive.
• Delay and Reverb: Add delay and reverb to create a more ambient and atmospheric sound, particularly effective with natural harmonics.
• Pitch Shifters: Use pitch shifters to alter the pitch of harmonics, creating unique and unexpected sounds.

Combining effects with harmonics can lead to some truly unique and creative sounds. Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for your style.

Practice Techniques for Perfecting Harmonics

Like any guitar technique, getting good at harmonics requires practice and patience. Here are some practice techniques that can help you refine your harmonic skills:

• Slow It Down: Start by practicing harmonics slowly, focusing on accuracy and clarity. Gradually increase the speed as you get more comfortable.
• Record Yourself: Record your practice sessions and listen back to identify areas for improvement. This can help you hear things you might miss while playing.
• Use a Metronome: Practice with a metronome to improve your timing and rhythm, ensuring that your harmonics are precise and consistent.

Practicing harmonics might feel challenging at first, but with dedication and consistency, you can master this technique and make it a seamless part of your playing.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

As you work on harmonics, it's easy to fall into some common traps that can hinder your progress. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them:

• Heavy-Handedness: Using too much pressure when touching the string can mute the harmonic. Aim for a light touch to let the harmonic ring out clearly.
• Incorrect Finger Position: Ensure your finger is positioned directly above the fret wire for natural harmonics, and adjust your picking hand position for artificial and pinch harmonics.
• Inconsistent Pick Attack: A consistent pick attack is crucial for getting a clear harmonic sound. Practice your picking technique to achieve consistency.

By being aware of these common mistakes and actively working to correct them, you'll be well on your way to clean and precise harmonic playing.

Final Thoughts

Harmonics are a powerful tool for adding depth and character to your electric guitar playing. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your skills, incorporating harmonics can enhance your sound and make your playing more dynamic. If you're eager to learn more and take your harmonic skills to the next level, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists to help you on your journey.