How to Play Low E on the Guitar

Playing the low E string on a guitar might seem straightforward, but it’s where many epic metal riffs are born. Whether you’re diving into thrash, black, or djent, that low E is your powerhouse. In this post, we’ll break down how to get the most out of that all-important string, from basic techniques to advanced tricks that’ll have your guitar growling with the best of them.

Why the Low E String Matters

The low E string isn’t just another string; it’s the backbone of your sound, especially in the metal world. Think of it as the foundation on which you can build everything from chunky riffs to soaring solos. Many legendary metal songs rely on the resonance and depth that only the low E can provide.

When you’re playing genres like death metal or djent, the low E string can be your best friend. It allows for deep, resonant sounds that are essential for creating those heavy, chugging riffs. Plus, it’s the starting point for many scales and modes, making it crucial for both rhythm and lead playing.

Interestingly enough, the low E string is also the starting point for many alternate tunings. Drop D, drop C, and even the menacing drop B all pivot around this string. So understanding how to work with it in different tunings can unlock a whole new world of possibilities.

Getting Started with the Basics

Before diving into complex riffs, it’s crucial to understand the basic anatomy of your low E string. This string, the thickest of the bunch, is tuned to E in standard tuning, which is the lowest note on a standard guitar. Its unique position makes it perfect for both power chords and single-note riffs.

To play the low E string, start by positioning your right hand for picking. If you’re using a pick, hold it between your thumb and index finger. For fingerstyle, use your thumb or index finger to pluck the string. Ensure that your hand is relaxed to avoid strain and enhance your playing longevity.

When it comes to fretting the low E string, your left hand should be poised and ready. Use the tips of your fingers to press down on the string just behind the fret. This positioning helps avoid any unwanted buzzing sounds, which can detract from the clarity of your playing.

Building Strength with Downpicking

Downpicking is a hallmark of metal guitar playing. It’s all about precision, speed, and, most importantly, stamina. If you’re new to downpicking, it might feel like a workout at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

Begin by practicing slow, deliberate downstrokes on the low E string. Focus on consistency and power in each stroke. Gradually increase your speed while maintaining that consistency. Remember, it’s better to play slower and cleanly than fast and sloppy.

For those looking to take their downpicking to the next level, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the top metal guitarists in the world. Their expertise can guide you through the nuances of downpicking, offering tips and tricks that only seasoned professionals know.

Alternate Picking for Precision

While downpicking delivers power, alternate picking offers speed and precision. This technique involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, allowing for greater speed and fluidity. It’s a technique that’s indispensable in genres like thrash and progressive metal.

To practice alternate picking, start by playing simple scales on the low E string. Focus on evenness between your downstrokes and upstrokes. Use a metronome to keep your timing precise, and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.

Alternate picking isn’t just about speed; it’s about control. As you improve, you’ll find that this technique allows you to articulate notes more clearly, even at high speeds. This clarity is essential for complex metal riffs where every note counts.

Exploring Palm Muting Techniques

Palm muting is a technique that adds a percussive quality to your playing, creating that iconic “chugging” sound that’s synonymous with metal. Done correctly, it can add a dynamic layer to your riffs, making them sound tighter and more controlled.

To palm mute, rest the side of your picking hand lightly on the strings near the bridge. The key is to apply just enough pressure to dampen the strings without killing the sound entirely. Practice this technique by playing power chords on the low E string, adjusting your hand position until you achieve the desired sound.

For a deeper dive into palm muting, Riffhard offers video lessons that break down this technique step-by-step. Their instructors can show you how to incorporate palm muting into your playing for maximum effect.

Drop Tunings and the Low E

If you’re looking to add some extra heaviness to your sound, experimenting with drop tunings is a great place to start. By lowering the pitch of your low E string, you can create deeper, more resonant tones that are perfect for metal.

The most common drop tuning is Drop D, where the low E string is tuned down to D. This tuning makes it easier to play power chords and adds a heavier sound to your riffs. From Drop D, you can explore other tunings like Drop C or even Drop B for an even lower, more aggressive sound.

When adjusting your tuning, it’s important to remember that your string tension will change. This means you might need to adjust your playing technique slightly to accommodate the different feel of the strings. But with practice, you’ll be able to switch between tunings seamlessly, adding versatility to your playing.

Harmonics and the Low E String

Harmonics are a fascinating way to add texture to your playing. By lightly touching the string at specific points, you can produce bell-like tones that add a unique flavor to your sound. The low E string is particularly resonant for harmonics, making it a great choice for experimentation.

Natural harmonics can be found at various points along the low E string, most notably at the 5th, 7th, and 12th frets. Try lightly touching the string at these points and plucking it to hear the harmonic ring out. With practice, you can incorporate these sounds into your riffs, adding a new layer of complexity.

For those interested in learning more about harmonics and other advanced techniques, Riffhard provides lessons that delve into these concepts, helping you expand your musical vocabulary.

Playing with Dynamics

One of the most overlooked aspects of playing the low E string is dynamics. The ability to play both softly and loudly can add depth to your playing, making your music more expressive and engaging.

To practice dynamics, try playing a simple riff on the low E string. Start by playing it softly, then gradually increase the volume with each repetition. This exercise helps you become more aware of your picking hand’s role in controlling volume and adds emotional range to your playing.

Dynamics aren’t just about volume; they’re also about timing and articulation. Experiment with different picking techniques, such as picking closer to the bridge for a sharper sound or over the neck for a softer tone. These subtle changes can make a big difference in the overall feel of your music.

Incorporating Slides and Bends

Slides and bends are techniques that can add a vocal-like quality to your playing. They’re particularly effective on the low E string, where they can add emotion and flair to your riffs.

To perform a slide, start by playing a note on the low E string, then slide your finger up or down the neck to another note. This technique creates a smooth, gliding sound that’s both expressive and powerful.

Bends, on the other hand, involve pushing or pulling the string to change the pitch of a note. On the low E string, bends can add tension and release to your playing, making them a potent tool for adding drama to your music. Practice bending the string up to a whole step or more, listening carefully to ensure your bends are in tune.

Both slides and bends require a delicate touch and a good ear, but with practice, they can add a whole new dimension to your playing.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the low E string opens up a world of possibilities for metal guitarists. From powerful downpicking to expressive harmonics, this string is the cornerstone of many iconic sounds. At Riffhard, we offer lessons and insights from top metal guitarists to help you refine your technique and unleash your potential. Dive in, experiment, and let your creativity shine.