Dive into the legendary world of Jimmy Page, the iconic guitarist of Led Zeppelin, whose innovative playing and gear choices have left an indelible mark on rock music.
From his powerful riffs to his mystical solos, Page’s sound is unmistakable. This rundown explores the guitars, amps, and pedals that crafted some of the most unforgettable tones in rock history.
Whether you’re a gear enthusiast or an aspiring guitarist, get ready to uncover the secrets behind Jimmy Page’s sonic legacy.
Jimmy Page’s Guitars
Jimmy Page’s eclectic guitar collection not only defined the sound of Led Zeppelin but also influenced generations of guitarists. Each instrument in his collection tells a story of innovation, experimentation, and musical mastery.
Here’s a deeper dive into the guitars that crafted some of rock’s most unforgettable moments:
- Gibson Les Paul Standard: The quintessential rock guitar, Page’s Les Paul Standard is most famously linked to the creation of “Whole Lotta Love.” By detuning the guitar, Page achieved the track’s surreal, heavy sound. This guitar’s thick, sustained tones became a hallmark of Zeppelin’s sound, showcasing Page’s pioneering use of the instrument in rock music.
- Danelectro 59 DC: This modestly priced guitar punches above its weight in the hands of a master like Page. Its jangly, bright tone was perfect for “Kashmir,” a song that blended rock with Middle Eastern influences. Page’s affection for the Danelectro highlights his belief that the musician’s creativity, not the price tag of the instrument, is what truly matters.
- 1964 Fender Stratocaster – Lake Placid Blue: This Stratocaster, with its distinctive Lake Placid Blue finish, marked a shift in Page’s playing style during the mid-70s. Used in live performances of “No Quarter” and “Over The Hills And Far Away,” it showcased Page’s versatility and willingness to explore different sonic landscapes beyond the typical Les Paul-driven sound of early Zeppelin.
- Gibson Jimmy Page “Number Two” Les Paul: A collaboration between Page and Gibson, the “Number Two” Les Paul is a testament to Page’s search for the perfect tone. Featuring push-pull pots for coil-splitting and series/parallel switching, this guitar allowed Page to achieve a wide range of sounds, from crisp cleans to heavy overdrives, further expanding his sonic palette.
- Fender Jimmy Page Dragon Telecaster: Before the Les Paul became his trademark, Page wielded the Dragon Telecaster, a gift from Jeff Beck. This guitar, with its psychedelic paint job, was Page’s main instrument during the early days of Zeppelin. It’s heard on the groundbreaking “Led Zeppelin I,” including the blistering solo on “Dazed and Confused.”
- Gibson EDS-1275 Jimmy Page Signature Model: The iconic image of Page playing the double-neck Gibson on “Stairway to Heaven” is etched in rock history. This guitar allowed him to seamlessly switch between 6-string and 12-string parts live, showcasing his technical skill and musical vision. The EDS-1275 is a symbol of Page’s ambition to push the boundaries of what was possible on the guitar.
- 1958 Fender B-bender Telecaster – Brown: Page’s use of the Fender B-bender Telecaster exemplifies his pioneering spirit. By employing the “b-bender” mechanism, Page added a unique twist to the country-inspired licks in Zeppelin’s music, blending genres and creating sounds that were entirely new to rock music.
- Fender Electric XII 12-String: This guitar’s distinctive jingle-jangle sound was crucial in the studio for tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” and “The Song Remains The Same.” The Electric XII’s rich, harmonic texture added depth to Zeppelin’s recordings, showcasing Page’s knack for layering sounds to create lush, complex arrangements.
Jimmy Page’s guitar collection is a reflection of his deep musical knowledge, innovative spirit, and boundless creativity. Each guitar not only contributed to the legendary Led Zeppelin sound but also cemented Page’s status as one of the most influential guitarists in rock history.
Want to learn more about rigs of other famous guitarists? Check out the gear used by Kirk Hammett, Prince and Mac DeMarco!
Jimmy Page’s Amplifiers
The amplifiers used by Jimmy Page were as integral to his sound as his legendary guitar collection. Page’s choice of amps played a pivotal role in crafting the sonic landscape of Led Zeppelin’s music. Here’s an insight into the amps that powered the riffs, solos, and everything in between:
- Marshall Plexi 1959SLP: Modified to reach a staggering 200 watts with KT-88 tubes, Page’s Marshall Plexi was the engine behind Led Zeppelin’s towering rock sound. Its sheer power and dynamic range allowed Page to go from whisper-quiet cleans to earth-shattering overdrives, defining the sound of classic tracks like “Whole Lotta Love.”
- Supro 1690T Coronado: A lesser-known but equally crucial part of Page’s arsenal, the Supro 1690T Coronado was used extensively on Led Zeppelin’s debut album. Its unique, gritty tone contributed to the raw, bluesy sound of tracks like “Dazed and Confused.” The Coronado’s distinct overdrive became a signature part of Page’s early sound.
- Fender Dual Showman: Known for its clean, powerful output, the Fender Dual Showman was another key component in Page’s diverse amp collection. Its headroom and clarity made it an excellent choice for capturing the nuances of Page’s playing, both in the studio and on stage.
- Orange Amplifiers AD30HTC 30W Tube Guitar Amp Head: Page’s use of the Orange AD30HTC later in his career showcased his ongoing exploration of tone. The AD30HTC’s vintage-voiced gain and warm cleans provided a perfect backdrop for Page’s intricate playing and sonic experimentation.
- Hiwatt Custom 100: Customized for Page’s specifications, the Hiwatt Custom 100 delivered a blend of power and precision. Used during the late ’60s and early ’70s, this amp supported Page’s groundbreaking work on albums like “Led Zeppelin II” and “Led Zeppelin III,” providing clarity and punch to the band’s heavier tracks.
- Vox Super Beatle: This amp was part of Page’s quest for the perfect live sound, delivering high volume with unmistakable British chime. The Super Beatle, combined with Rickenbacker Transonic cabinets, was crucial in achieving the monumental live sound of “Whole Lotta Love” and other Zeppelin classics.
- Orange Matamp: Custom built for Page, this rare amp exemplifies his willingness to experiment with his gear to achieve unique sounds. Its warm, rich tones and high gain capabilities allowed Page to push the boundaries of rock guitar tone.
- Sundragon Amp: A modern addition to Page’s collection, the Sundragon is a meticulous recreation of the Supro amplifier used on Led Zeppelin’s debut album. Developed in collaboration with Page, it offers a window into the genesis of Zeppelin’s sound, replicating the unique characteristics that helped define some of the most iconic riffs in rock history.
Jimmy Page’s amplifier setup reflects his journey as a musician and his constant search for the perfect tone. From the raw power of the Marshall Plexi to the nuanced warmth of the Supro Coronado, each amp played a role in the creation of the Led Zeppelin legacy. Page’s ability to blend these diverse sounds helped cement his status as a pioneering figure in rock music.
Jimmy Page’s Effects Pedals
Jimmy Page’s use of effects pedals added layers of depth, texture, and innovation to Led Zeppelin’s music, making his guitar work instantly recognizable and deeply influential. Here’s a look at the key effects that shaped the sound of a rock legend:
- MXR M103 Blue Box: This pedal was key to the “Fool In The Rain” solo, producing an octave down fuzz that is both unique and slightly unsettling. Page’s application of the Blue Box illustrates his willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional guitar sounds.
- Boss SD-1 Super OverDrive: During the 80s with The Firm and his solo tours, Page incorporated the SD-1 for its smooth, natural overdrive, which complemented his playing style and added a modern edge to his tone.
- MXR M101 Phase 90: Used for iconic tracks like “Immigrant Song” and “Dazed and Confused,” the Phase 90 added a swirling, psychedelic texture to Page’s riffs and solos, showcasing his ability to integrate effects creatively into Zeppelin’s music.
- Univox UD-50 Uni-Drive: Known for its use in creating an “electronic cello” effect, this rare pedal demonstrates Page’s experimental approach to sound and his knack for turning the guitar into a chameleon-like instrument.
- Roger Mayer Fuzz Box: Page’s use of this custom-made fuzz pedal by Roger Mayer (who also worked with Hendrix) is a testament to his search for a distinct, powerful distorted tone that could cut through Zeppelin’s heavy arrangements.
- Theremin Sonic Wave: Not a pedal in the traditional sense, but Page’s use of the Theremin during live performances of “Whole Lotta Love” showcased his interest in incorporating unconventional instruments to create eerie, otherworldly sounds.
- Pete Cornish Custom Floor System: This bespoke multi-effects system was designed for Page to have complete control over his sound during live performances. It included everything from preamps and send/return loops for adding external effects to isolated signal paths for each effect, ensuring clarity and versatility on stage.
- Vox Grey Wah: The Vox Wah helped shape the expressive lead tones in songs like “Dazed and Confused.” Page’s use of the wah pedal added a vocal quality to his guitar work, making his solos even more dynamic and expressive.
- Sola Sound Tone Bender Professional MKII: This iconic fuzz pedal was responsible for the thick, saturated tones heard on early Zeppelin records. Page’s use of the Tone Bender set the standard for rock guitar distortion, influencing countless players in the process.
- DigiTech WH-1 Whammy Pedal: Although more associated with his later career, Page’s exploration of the Whammy pedal added a new dimension to his solos, allowing him to bend pitches and create sounds that were previously impossible.
Jimmy Page’s innovative use of effects pedals contributed significantly to the sonic landscape of Led Zeppelin’s music.
By combining these tools with his masterful playing technique, Page crafted some of the most memorable and influential guitar tones in rock history, proving that his approach to effects was as creative and groundbreaking as his approach to the guitar itself.
Jimmy Page’s Amp Settings
While exact settings can vary due to differences in gear, environment, and personal playing styles, here’s a starting point to achieve the iconic Jimmy Page sound:
General Guidelines
Gain/Volume: Page’s tone balances clarity with a hefty dose of overdrive. Start with your gain set to a moderate level to achieve a warm, driven sound without sacrificing note definition. Adjust according to your amp’s character and your guitar’s output.
Bass: Page’s sound has a solid foundation but isn’t overly bass-heavy. Setting the bass around 4-6 on a 10-point scale should provide enough low-end without muddying the sound.
Midrange: The midrange is crucial for capturing Page’s biting lead tones and thick rhythm parts. Aim for a mid setting between 6-8 to ensure your guitar cuts through the mix and retains warmth.
Treble: Highs contribute to the clarity and articulation of Page’s guitar work. Set the treble between 6-7 to add brightness without creating harshness.
Presence: This control adds sparkle and definition to your tone. Adjusting the presence around 5-7 can help emulate Page’s clear, articulate highs, especially useful for live settings.
Reverb: Page’s studio recordings often featured natural room ambience rather than heavy reverb effects. A slight touch of reverb (around 2-3) can add spatial depth to your tone without overwhelming it.
Specific Tones
- “Whole Lotta Love” Riff: Achieve the song’s gritty riff with higher gain settings, while still keeping clarity. Increase midrange slightly for punch.
- “Stairway to Heaven” Solo: Dial back the gain for cleaner articulation. Boost mids and treble slightly for a more pronounced, singing lead tone.
- “Black Dog” Rhythm: Focus on a balanced mix of gain and EQ settings to achieve the song’s thick, crunchy rhythm tone. Moderate gain with a slight boost in mids works well.
- “Since I’ve Been Loving You” Bluesy Lead: Increase the gain for more sustain and dial in a higher midrange to capture the song’s emotive, blues-infused lead tone.
Additional Tips
- Dynamic Playing: Much of Page’s tone comes from his touch and dynamics. Experiment with pick attack and volume knob adjustments to vary your tone.
- Amp Type: While specific settings are a great starting point, the type of amp you use can significantly impact the overall sound. Page famously used Marshall, Supro, and Orange amps, among others. Tube amps generally offer the warmth and responsiveness associated with his tone.
- Experiment: Page’s gear and settings evolved over time. Don’t be afraid to tweak these suggested settings based on your equipment and personal preferences.
Remember, the goal is to capture the spirit of Jimmy Page’s sound, which was defined by experimentation and a unique approach to guitar playing. Use these settings as a foundation and adjust based on your own musical expression and the characteristics of your gear.
FAQ
1. Can I achieve Jimmy Page’s guitar tone with a solid-state amp? Yes, while tube amps are preferred for their warmth, modern solid-state amps offer modeling options that can closely mimic Page’s iconic tones.
2. What type of strings did Jimmy Page use to get his sound? Page typically used light gauge strings, which facilitated his bends and vibrato, contributing to his expressive playing style.
3. How important is the guitar’s action in achieving Page’s playing style? A lower action can aid in the fast fingerwork and bending techniques Page is known for, but it’s essential to balance playability with avoiding fret buzz.
4. Did Jimmy Page use any specific tuning for certain Led Zeppelin songs? Yes, Page used various alternate tunings, including open G (“That’s The Way”) and DADGAD (“Kashmir”), to achieve different sonic textures.
5. How did Jimmy Page record his guitar solos in the studio? Page often layered multiple takes and used different guitars and amps to create rich, complex tones. He was also known for his innovative use of microphone placement and studio effects.
6. What pick did Jimmy Page prefer? Page was known to use medium gauge picks, which offered a balance between flexibility and control for both rhythm and lead playing.
7. Can pedal order impact achieving Page’s tone? Absolutely. Pedal order can significantly affect your sound. Page’s signal chain was carefully arranged to maximize the effectiveness of each pedal, typically starting with dynamics/eq, then modulation, followed by time-based effects.
8. Did Jimmy Page ever use bass amps for recording or live performances? Page was innovative with his gear choices, including using bass amps for their unique tonal qualities on certain tracks for both recording and live settings.
9. How did Page create the “bow” sound on his guitar? Page used a cello bow on his guitar strings to create the ethereal and haunting sounds heard in songs like “Dazed and Confused,” showcasing his experimental approach to guitar playing.
10. Is there a budget-friendly way to achieve Jimmy Page’s tone? While owning Page’s exact gear can be costly, many budget-friendly amps, guitars, and pedals can mimic his sound. Look for gear that offers a good range of overdrive and tonal flexibility. Experiment with settings and playing techniques to get close to his legendary tone.
Final Thoughts
Capturing the essence of Jimmy Page’s tone is as much about the gear as it is about the approach to playing. From his dynamic touch to his innovative use of effects and studio techniques, Page’s sound is a testament to his creativity and mastery of the guitar.
While the exact setup might be challenging to replicate, understanding the principles behind his iconic tones—experimentation, expression, and a blend of technical prowess with sonic exploration—can inspire any guitarist to push their boundaries.
Remember, the spirit of Page’s sound lies not just in the equipment but in the fearless pursuit of musical expression.