Alternate picking on low-E string

[drfrankencopter]

I'm trying to refine my picking technique, and trying to do strict alternate picking, as opposed to the economy and circle picking that I tend to fall into.

So far I've noticed that I'm really slow on the low-E string, where I don't have a good anchor for my right hand, whereas on the A string it's less of a problem, and by the D string (and all the higher strings) I can alternate pick very quickly (120bpm 16th note sextuplets).

So, what's the secret to fast alternate picking on the low E? I guess I need to abandon my anchor point, or perhaps rotate my wrist...

Is my lack of speed on the low E a sign of poor technique/form?

Cheers

Kris

[jazzandmetal?]

Learn some slayer...it will do wonders for you.

[boobtoob]

I'm trying to refine my picking technique, and trying to do strict alternate picking, as opposed to the economy and circle picking that I tend to fall into.

So far I've noticed that I'm really slow on the low-E string, where I don't have a good anchor for my right hand, whereas on the A string it's less of a problem, and by the D string (and all the higher strings) I can alternate pick very quickly (120bpm 16th note sextuplets).

So, what's the secret to fast alternate picking on the low E? I guess I need to abandon my anchor point, or perhaps rotate my wrist...

Is my lack of speed on the low E a sign of poor technique/form?

Cheers

Kris

I have the same problem...I think it's because the low E is just so damn big...the pick wants to "bounce" off of it, causing the next stroke to be far away. Sometimes, I will purposely pick the bigger strings closer to the bridge...it keeps the pick from bouncing, although every song sounds like Folsom Prison Blues.

[tak]

Do you angle the pick about 45 degrees or so? It helps slice through the string quite a bit.

[Noah]

That's a common problem. Pick from the wrist and practice alternate picking with a triplet pattern up and down the lower 2 or 3 strings using a metronome. You'll nail it eventually.

[raul]

yes, i'm also trying to pick up my speed and playing fast tremolo style is difficult on the E string. i agree, try playing to Slayer or other fast kinda speed metal will help out. those guys have awesome picking speed! so many bands pick that way, just find them, and try to play like that. start slowly with a metronome and work up to a comfortable speed.
Speed Mechanics is a great book. it will help you. it really will.