Dunlop’s Jazz III is a popular choice among guitarists of all genres, and for good reason. Its revolutionary compact shape allows for excellent picking control and articulation. There’s another Jazz III player, though: The Jazz III XL, the “big brother” of the Jazz 3 pick. But what’s the real difference, and is the XL an “upgrade” from the Jazz III? In this article, we’ll compare the Jazz III XL vs Standard Jazz III, and help you decide which Jazz III pick is right for you.
Jazz III Options
Despite its name, the Jazz 3 isn’t used only for playing jazz. The Jazz III is available in various materials, which enables you to customize the tone. Guitarists from every genre know and love the Jazz III’s It’s known for its small size, pointed bevel, and durability.
Nylon was the original material used for the Jazz III, but today’s Jazz III picks are available in Nylon, Ultex, Tortex, Max Grip, Primetone versions, Artist Signature, and more. We recently reviewed a Tortex Flex Jazz III XL that we really like.
Jazz III vs. Jazz III XL Differences
For the purposes of this article, we compare two Jazz III picks made of Ultex. These are the standard Ultex versions of both the Jazz III and Jazz III XL.
Size
As you can probably guess from the name, the Jazz III XL is larger in size than the standard Jazz III. Specifically, it’s 10% wider and 15% longer.
Shape
The shape of the Jazz III Standard and XL are very similar, but there are slight differences. In particular, the angle towards the tip is ever so slightly different on the Standard Jazz III. The bevels, both along the body, and the tip, are the same. Note that the bevels on the Primetone versions of theJazz III are different.
Feel
Both the Standard and XL feel great, though obviously the XL feels bigger in the hand. The Jazz 3 shape lends itself well to being scaled up to XL size, and the XL in no way feels awkward compared to the Standard pick. One thing I’ll mention is that the grip is slightly better on the XL. This is due not only to the pick being physically bigger, but also the raised lettering on the pick. The lettering on the XL is proportionally larger than the Standard pick, and it’s a difference you can feel.
Tone
Two picks made of the same material, should sound the same. And for the most part they do. When made of the same material, the two are very close. That said, there are some subtle differences to be aware of:
- The XL version can sound slightly brighter and louder. More articulate? Too close to call!
- Similarly, the smaller Jazz III can sound moderately warmer in certain musical situations.
Suitability for Different Styles of Music
Choosing between these picks is for the most part a question of which feels better to you. The Standard Jazz III was revolutionary in that the compact shape made it easier to hold. It’s a pick that really stays out of the way, which is helpful for hybrid pickers.
None other than blues guitar player Joe Bonamassa maintains that the Jazz III is in a class by itself:
“Once you go to these picks, it’s very… it’s almost impossible to go back to a standard size pick.”
—Joe Bonamassa
Guitarists, including myself, use the Jazz III for both acoustic and electric playing. I do tend to favor the XL for acoustic, as the larger size often feels better when strumming heavier acoustic guitar strings.
Bonamassa even has his own signature Jazz III pick! Here are more thoughts on the Jazz III from Bonamassa:
Conclusion
When deciding between the Jazz III XL vs Standard Jazz III, experimenting with both picks is the best way to decide which feels most comfortable for you. And, you may not decide. I’ve personally pinged back and forth between the Standard and XL picks for the better part of a year. My experience is that although I love the Standard Jazz III, sometimes you just prefer a larger pick. In other words, it’s good to have options. Happy Playing!