The Untold Story Behind Acdc Signature Guitar Tone

When it comes to iconic rock guitar tones, one band that often comes to mind is AC/DC. Known for their powerful riffs and electrifying performances, the band’s lead guitarist, Angus Young, has a signature tone that has captivated rock fans for decades. In this article, we will delve into the untold story behind AC/DC’s signature guitar tone and explore the equipment and techniques that have contributed to their unique sound.

One of the key elements that contribute to Angus Young’s distinctive guitar tone is his use of a Gibson SG guitar. The SG, with its lightweight mahogany body and dual humbucker pickups, provides the sharp, biting sound that is synonymous with AC/DC’s music. Young’s preference for the SG can be traced back to the early days of the band when he was searching for a guitar that could withstand his high-energy performances while delivering a powerful, gritty tone.

In addition to his choice of guitar, Young’s amplifier setup plays a crucial role in shaping AC/DC’s iconic sound. For many years, Young has been known to favor Marshall amplifiers, specifically the Marshall JMP Super Lead 100-watt head. This classic amplifier, paired with a matching Marshall cabinet loaded with Celestion speakers, is responsible for the raw and aggressive tone that is a hallmark of AC/DC’s music. Young’s use of high-gain settings on his amplifier, combined with the natural overdrive of his guitar pickups, creates a sound that is both aggressive and dynamic.

Another important component of Angus Young’s guitar tone is his use of effects pedals. While Young is not known for using a wide array of effects, he does utilize a few key pedals to enhance his sound. One of the most notable pedals in his arsenal is the Schaffer-Vega Diversity System, a wireless unit that helps boost his signal and adds a touch of compression to his tone. This pedal has been a mainstay in Young’s rig for many years and is credited with helping him achieve his signature sound on stage.

When it comes to playing technique, Angus Young’s aggressive and energetic style is a defining factor in the creation of AC/DC’s guitar tone. Young’s use of palm muting, string bending, and rapid-fire picking techniques all contribute to the band’s hard-hitting sound. His ability to blend power chords with blistering solos showcases his technical prowess and adds depth to AC/DC’s music.

It is also worth mentioning the importance of Malcolm Young’s rhythm guitar playing in shaping AC/DC’s overall sound. Malcolm’s driving, no-nonsense approach to rhythm guitar provides a solid foundation for Angus’s lead work and helps create the band’s signature groove. The interplay between the Young brothers is a key element of AC/DC’s music, with Malcolm’s rhythmic precision complementing Angus’s fiery leads to perfection.

In conclusion, AC/DC’s signature guitar tone is the result of a combination of factors, including Angus Young’s choice of guitar, amplifier setup, effects pedals, playing technique, and the dynamic interplay between the band members. By carefully crafting their sound over the years, AC/DC has cemented their status as one of the most influential rock bands of all time, with a guitar tone that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.