Today I’m discussing the Jazztone guitar pick from Dunlop. As you can probably tell from the title of this post, I unexpectedly loved this pick! In this article I’ll explain what I think makes the Jazztone series special, and why I think that this pick may be one of the most under-appreciated guitar pick choices available today.
Dunlop Jazztone Series
The Dunlop Jazztone Series of guitar picks offers a number of pick shapes. Aimed at the “jazz guitarist”, the reality is that these picks will work well for many styles. Dunlop includes Jazztone picks as among their “unsung heroes”. The idea here is that Dunlop feels that they are a great design, but less known than they should be. Is this Dunlop’s fault? Quite possibly, but let’s give them credit for recognizing it.
The pick model I am reviewing today is the Dunlop Jazztone 208. All of the picks in the series are made of the same material, and will perform and sound the same, regardless of shape. Note that some models have a pointed tip, while others have a rounded, or medium point tip. The Jazztone comes in the following models:
- Jazztone 208: This is the pick featured in this review. The Jazztone 208 is on the large side, with a contoured, pointed tip.
- Jazztone 207: Similar to the 208, the Jazztone 207 differs with its rounded tip.
- Jazztone 206: The Jazztone 206 features a teardrop shape with a medium tip.
- Jazztone 205: The Jazztone 205 is a more rounded shape than the 206, and smaller size than the 208. It has a pointed tip.
- Jazztone 204: The Jazztone 204 is a small, round-tip pick.
Dunlop Jazztone Pick Features
Dunlop Jazztone picks are available in 5 different shapes. Each shape has a corresponding model number. Jazztone picks are constructed of polycarbonate. Unlike some pick makers that tout the merits of their material, Dunlop doesn’t mention anything about the particular formulation of their polycarbonate, so we’re left guessing. The Jazztone is embossed with classy gold lettering on one side, which matches excellently with the matte black color, and oozes a sophisticated, “jazz” vibe.
Dunlop Jazztone Pick Feel
Jazztone picks, regardless of shape, have a thickness of 2.0mm. This is interesting, because most of Dunlop’s picks are available in more than one gauge. I have to think that the reason for this is that the Jazztone is designed for a particular type of feel and sound. Dunlop touts the Jazztones “super-gripping surface”, and I can attest to this.
In comparison to some of my other favorites, the Jazztone is not quite as grippy as the Blue Chip Jazz60 or the D’Addario Casein 351. Instead, I found the Jazztone offers similar grip as an Ultex Jazz III or John Petrucci Signature pick. I have no doubt that the 2mm thickness plays a part in this as well. The surface is textured, but not as textured as a pick like the Dunlop Gator Grip. Although I typically play a 1.5mm gauge, I adjusted to the extra beef of the Jazztone immediately.
The shape of the 208 model is similar to Fender’s 351 shape, which is considered the benchmark “standard” shape for guitar picks. The feel is similar to a Jazz III XL shape, which has been my go-to shape as of late. But it’s bigger and beefier than a Jazz III XL, and the angles on the sides are more rounded. I was surprised at how much I immediately liked the shape of this pick.
Dunlop Jazztone Pick Tone
As good as the Jazztone feels, that wouldn’t mean much if it didn’t have tone to match. Fortunately, it does. When I started playing the Jazztone, I immediately realized why Dunlop included it in their “unsung heroes” list. How had I never heard of a pick that sounds so great?
Dunlop describes the Jazztone as having “seriously round, warm tone.” I’d say that’s accurate, but the part that I was surprised with is the articulation available with this pick. This is in part because of the contoured point of the 208, which comes to a fine point at the tip. If you prefer a rounded edge, other Jazztone picks offer a rounded off contour, but I do wonder if you’ll give up some articulation.
The Jazztone sounded great in any context. While some picks shine on electric or acoustic, the tone of the Jazztone sounded equally great on either. The tone is natural, warm, and full, with a pleasant burnishing, or “rounding off” of the top end. However, as with other well designed picks, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything tonally. In other words, I was aware of the tonal color that this pick is going for, and I found nothing lacking.
Value
This is another area where the Jazztone line really shines. At a price of less than $10 USD for 6 picks, the Jazztone series offers screaming value.
Conclusion
The Dunlop Jazztone is undoubtedly a great guitar pick, and I’m surprised that it doesn’t get more hype. Don’t let the name fool you: This pick can do much more than jazz. And, tonewise it compares favorably with luxury picks such as those offered by Blue Chip and Gravity Picks.
In a head-to-head comparison on acoustic guitar I’d still give the Blue Chip a slight edge for its buttery, warm presence, but it’s a close call. On electric, it’s a toss-up. Considering the great sound, feel, and price-to-value ratio of the Dunlop Jazztone Series, you’d be crazy not to give them a spin.