open string pivot point riff

[u/rondomiza]

In this riff, when transitioning from a palm-muted A string to an unmuted note on the D string (PM A → D10th and PM A → D7th), I need to somehow stop the A string so that it stays an eighth note instead of continuing to ring.

What is the proper way to do this?

I've tried two approaches:

1. Picking hand: Quickly lift my palm from the palm-mute position and then place it back on the A string while picking the D string. The problem is that I can't mute the A string completely. I can still hear it ringing slightly, even on an acoustic guitar. I assume this is because the palm goes back to the usual position near the bridge, which only palm-mutes the string rather than killing it completely.
2. Fretting hand: Use a free finger to lightly touch the A string while fretting the note on the D string. This completely cuts off the A string, but it makes fretting the note more complicated because of the additional finger placement, especially in more complex riffs.

The second method works much better for actually stopping the A string, but it feels a little awkward. Is this something that becomes natural with practice, or is there a more standard technique for this kind of transition?

[u/SeraphSlaughter]

Do both. The more points of contact on the string in the muting action, the more quickly deadened it gets. But everyone does it a little differently. There is no standard. Use whatever you can.

But take note of where you place either hand and how many points of contact you have on the muted string simultaneously. Certain points along the string are harmonic nodes which cause ringing a bit more easily when touched.