TrueFire review: what is it?
For the purpose of conducting this review, we were granted unrestricted access to the TrueFire platform.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the last few years, it’s that large parts of life can be done online and remotely. If, like many others, you’ve taken the time to explore a new hobby or pastime, chances are you’ve benefited from online tutorials, whether in the form of dedicated lessons or simply by mainlining YouTube videos like they didn’t exist Morning. Because to be fair, at times it felt like it didn’t exist.
Online Guitar Lessons was an area that has seen tremendous growth as people now find the time and opportunity they may have lacked before to really focus on learning how to play. With a wide range of providers to choose from, users were able to find the offering that best suited their learning style, goals and budget. From shiny, upbeat tutoring brands that use technology in cool and interesting ways, to more traditional methods that allow users to dig into specific techniques, there was – and still is – something for everyone.
One that caught our eye was TrueFire (opens in new tab). TrueFire’s promise of interactive learning, reputable tutors, and a database of over 52,000 video lessons fits more closely with the latter of the two styles above, and means it ticks many boxes for gamers of all ages and abilities. But with so much competition from the likes of Fender, JustinGuitar and Yousician, where does that fit in? In our TrueFire review, we aim to outline just that and highlight some of the best features to help you decide if TrueFire is the tool to help you achieve your gaming goals.
| Free trial period | Monthly plan | annual plan |
| Yes | $29.99 | $249 |
TrueFire Test: Performance & Verdict
We’ve reviewed a few different online guitar lesson services here at MusicRadar, and each one has its own unique personality. From Yousician’s colorful, modern styles to the clean, professional approach of Fender game. Compared to these, TrueFire lacks the flashy site design and “hold my hand” immediacy, but that’s not meant as a criticism. People learn in different ways, and not everyone is influenced by sophisticated graphics.
TrueFire instead offers what the others may lack; a focus on sensible, mature layout that is in no way dumb, with more content than you can imagine. When you log in, it’s not even immediately obvious what to do or where to go. Without a clear “Start Here” button, you’re free to explore in your own time, and that’s how you discover some of the incredible depth of what’s on offer.
A case in point; As I was browsing the site and nothing had immediately piqued my interest, I started to turn my mind. Instead of expecting TrueFire to tell me what to learn, I instead thought about what I wanted to know more about. Similar to how advanced players ask specific questions to a guitar teacher, I’ve started using the search function to find solutions. For example, I knew my left hand technique was sloppy and limited the speed I could play at. The search for “left hand technique” led to a whole course on “guitar physiology” – meaning how the body and the guitar have to work together – and from there a very knowledgeable teacher explained to me basic things like how to hold the guitar and move it up and down the fretboard in a way that relieves tension.
It’s basic stuff, but if you’re self-taught like me, you might not have gotten the memo to stop gripping the guitar’s neck. Within 30 minutes of watching and practicing I already felt an improvement and know that my basic technique is now better than before logging in that day.
If you have a guitar in your hands, TrueFire will make you play it better.
Obviously there are songs to learn from and famous tutors like Joe Bonamassa and Steve Vai, along with everything you could ever want to know about scales, intervals, techniques and improvisation. But what really impressed me was the way TrueFire not only knew what my problem was, but had an entire course to watch.
It must be pointed out that TrueFire offers basic lessons and courses, so there is something for everyone. From specific learning paths for specific genres to full walkthroughs for people who have never picked up a guitar in their life; If you have a guitar in your hands, TrueFire will make you play it better.
In terms of quality and functionality, videos are presented well, including tabs synced with the video, as well as the option to repeat important sections and slow down the video to your preferred speed.
But how much does it all cost with so much content to choose from? You’ll pay $29 a month (or $249 for an annual pass) to access everything on the site. Given the wealth of content at your disposal, this is a competitive price. There is also the option to purchase individual courses and modules if you do not wish to be tied to a subscription. As with most other online lesson subscriptions, there is also an option to try TrueFire free for 30 days.
Our overall experience made us wonder who would be the best fit to choose TrueFire. After all, the competition in the online learning space is fierce. For us, TrueFire is best suited for a serious learner. Someone who is dedicated to learning and honing their craft and can imagine a scenario in the future where the guitar is something they play – and can play – for fun rather than constantly banging through scales. There has to be an endgame, right? If that sounds like you and you’re willing to put in the hard work, then TrueFire is a solid choice.
TrueFire review: hands-on demos
music groupies
The best music courses
Bside speaks guitar
TrueFire test: specifications
- Costs: $29 per month, $249 per year, individual courses vary from $10 to $75
- Free trial period: 30 days full access
- Format: Browser-based, available with iOS and Android apps
- Number of lessons: 50,000 video tutorials
- Styles Covered: Rock, Blues, Folk, Jazz and many more
- Contact: TrueFire (opens in new tab)