Jimi Hendrix was a trailblazer in the world of electric guitar, experimenting with various amplifiers, effects, and gear to create his signature sound. Known for his innovative playing style and the immense impact he had on the world of rock music, Hendrix’s choice of guitar equipment played a pivotal role in crafting his unforgettable tone.
Throughout his career, Hendrix used a variety of amps, including the iconic Marshall JTM45/100, which became a staple among his gear.
However, it is important to note that he did not limit himself to just one brand or type of amp, constantly seeking new tools and techniques to extract unique sounds from his instruments. His approach to amplification and effects was just as innovative as his playing style and is still relevant to guitarists today.
Key Takeaways on What Amps Did Jimi Hendrix Use?
Jimi Hendrix used a variety of amplifiers, most notably the Marshall JTM45/100
Hendrix was known for his innovative gear choices, constantly exploring new tools and techniques
The amps and effects he used contributed to his distinctive sound and lasting impact on the world of electric guitar.
Jimi Hendrix, an iconic and revolutionary electric guitarist, redefined the sound of rock music in the late 1960s. Drawing from blues and psychedelia, Hendrix’s guitar tone was bold and innovative, characterized by heavy overdrive, feedback manipulation, and unparalleled vibrato technique.
One of the key elements in creating Hendrix’s distinct sound was the use of powerful tube amps. Hendrix mainly used Marshall Super Lead 100 amplifiers due to their ability to produce raw, high-gain sounds. These amps allowed Hendrix to fully exploit his artistic expression through heavy distortion and saturation.
An essential component of Hendrix’s sound was the use of effect pedals, which helped craft his unique sonic landscape. The Vox V846 Wah pedal was one of the most famous effects in his arsenal, often heard on tracks like “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” and “Purple Haze.”
The wah-wah effect allowed Hendrix to accentuate his guitar’s harmonics and create a dynamic, expressive voice-like sound. Additionally, Hendrix often used the Uni-Vibe pedal, which imitated a rotary speaker to achieve a throbbing, warbling sound. This effect is recognizable on tracks such as “Machine Gun” and “Star Spangled Banner.”
Jimi Hendrix’s guitar playing style was nothing short of groundbreaking. His technique fused blues-inspired licks and bends with innovative use of feedback and psychedelic elements.
Hendrix’s ability to incorporate controlled feedback into his playing gave his music an otherworldly, futuristic quality. This experimental approach to the electric guitar remains a hallmark of the Hendrix sound and continues to influence generations of guitar players.
The sound of Jimi Hendrix is a magnificent blend of powerful amps, innovative effect pedals, and exceptional guitar playing techniques. By harnessing the capabilities of these elements, Hendrix redefined the musical landscape of his time and left an indelible mark on rock history.
Main Guitars and Gear
Jimi Hendrix, an iconic guitarist, was mainly known for playing the Fender Stratocaster guitar, as well as the Gibson Flying V. These electric guitars were at the core of his unique sound and considered as some of the most significant instruments in his collection.
Hendrix heavily relied on the use of various effect pedals, such as the Vox Wah pedal and various fuzz pedals, which significantly contributed to his distinct sound.
One notable pedal in his gear collection was the Fuzz Face, a device engineered by Roger Mayer, which provided the fuzz effect so often associated with Hendrix’s music. Besides effect pedals, Hendrix also played with an array of guitar amps, such as the Marshall Plexi amp and Fender Bassmans, to generate his signature tone.
During his career, Hendrix utilized several different editions of the Stratocaster guitar, including an Olympic White 1964 Fender Stratocaster known as Carol or Linda. Specified with a rosewood fingerboard, single-coil pickups, and a synchronized tremolo system, this guitar was one that Hendrix particularly cherished.
In addition to Fender Stratocasters, Hendrix had other instruments in his gear arsenal. Some examples include the Epiphone Wilshire, Fender Jazzmaster, and Fender Duo-Sonic, which all contributed to the sonic diversity of his studio recordings.
For strings, Hendrix favored the Voodoo Child strings by Ernie Ball, which played a significant role in his ability to bend notes and experiment with guitar vibrato techniques. These strings, when paired with Hendrix’s playing technique and his choice of guitar amps, helped define his distinct sound.
Jimi Hendrix’s choice of amps and effects played a significant role in shaping his unique sound. Throughout his career, Hendrix experimented with a variety of amps, but his most well-known and commonly used amp was the Marshall JTM45/100. This classic amp defined his tone and helped establish the iconic “Hendrix sound.”
In addition to the Marshall JTM45/100, Hendrix used several other amps, including Fender models and the Vox amps. These choices further contributed to his diverse and dynamic tone. When it came to effects, Hendrix was known for pushing the boundaries, experimenting with various pedals and devices to create his signature soundscapes.
One of the most iconic effects Hendrix utilized was the fuzz pedal. His go-to choice was the Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face, which added a distinct, warm saturation and sustain to his tone. This pedal was an integral part of his sound, especially on songs like “Purple Haze” and “Voodoo Child.”
Another essential effect in Hendrix’s arsenal was the wah pedal, specifically the Vox wah-wah. This expressive tool allowed him to manipulate his guitar’s tone, creating a distinctive vocal-like quality. The wah pedal was featured prominently on tracks like “Up from the Skies” and “Machine Gun.”
Hendrix’s experimental nature also led him to employ more unique effects, such as the Octavia pedal and the Uni-Vibe. The Octavia pedal produced an octave-up effect, adding a higher harmonic to the original guitar signal. This effect can be heard on songs like “Fire” and “Little Wing.” In contrast, the Uni-Vibe pedal provided a phase-shifting effect, used to create lush, pulsating tones.
To truly understand the foundation of Jimi Hendrix’s sound, it’s essential to explore his innovative choices in amps and effects. From iconic fuzz and wah tones to his experimentation with other pedals, Hendrix crafted a sonic identity that has influenced countless musicians and remains unmatched to this day.
Signature Playing Style
Jimi Hendrix, widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, is synonymous with his groundbreaking electric guitar techniques and unforgettable performances like the one at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Hendrix’s innovative style combined elements of blues, rock, and psychedelia, which made his playing distinct and electrifying.
One of the key aspects of Hendrix’s signature playing style involved his use of feedback to create otherworldly sounds. By intentionally experimenting with feedback, Hendrix pushed the boundaries of what the electric guitar could produce. He frequently relied on the Fuzz Face pedal to help achieve his desired levels of feedback and distortion.
His electric guitar of choice was a Fender Stratocaster, which featured single-coil pickups and a rosewood fingerboard. Hendrix, being left-handed, would typically play the guitar upside down, with the strings flipped. This unique approach added a distinct tonal quality to his playing, making it instantly recognizable.
Strings also played an important role in Hendrix’s playing style. The guitarist often used lighter gauge strings, such as the “Voodoo Child” strings, to achieve a combination of brightness and smooth bending.
However, during performances of songs like “Hey Joe,” Hendrix would occasionally break strings due to his aggressive playing, resulting in memorable moments where he would seamlessly recover and keep playing.
In addition to his impressive technical skills, Jimi Hendrix’s emotional depth during live performances and captivating showmanship made him an icon.
From the New York scene to his untimely death at the age of 27, Hendrix’s unique playing style, experimentation with the electric guitar’s sonic capabilities, and soulful renditions of songs such as “Voodoo Child” and “Hey Joe” remain an inspiration to countless musicians and fans alike.
Jimi Hendrix’s influence on guitarists and the music industry as a whole cannot be overstated. His innovative and experimental guitar playing techniques, use of overdrive, and string gauges forever changed the landscape of rock music.
Even the greatest guitarists like Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck have cited Hendrix as a significant influence on their playing styles. He brought a new level of expressiveness to the instrument, and his performances at events such as the Monterey Pop Festival showcased his showmanship and mastery of the guitar.
His impact extended beyond rock, as jazz musicians also found inspiration in his work, incorporating his techniques and style into their own playing.
The Jazzmaster, among other guitars, was a part of Jimi Hendrix’s collection; however, it was his love for the Fender Stratocaster that ultimately secured his association with the guitar.
Experimenting with different string gauges and setups, Hendrix’s unique playing style included a heavier bottom-end, which influenced the tension and feel of the strings. He also helped popularize the use of overdrive, creating a distinctive, powerful sound that would become synonymous with his music.
Hendrix’s journey to England played a crucial role in launching his career, as it was there that he formed The Jimi Hendrix Experience and met some of the greatest guitarists of the time. His impact on the British music scene was immediate and lasting, with his innovative techniques inspiring musicians not only in England but also worldwide.
Today, Jimi Hendrix is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. The Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle, Washington, houses a vast collection of his personal belongings, including his famous guitars and amplifiers, chronicling his legacy and impact on the world of music.
Winner of numerous awards and tributes, Jimi Hendrix’s contributions to the art of guitar playing will forever be remembered and celebrated in the annals of music history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Marshall amps were used by Jimi Hendrix?
Jimi Hendrix was known for using Marshall Super Lead amps during his performances and recordings. He initially started with two Marshall Super Lead “stacks” that he would daisy-chain together for a powerful and unique sound.
What kind of Fender amplifiers did Hendrix use?
Although Hendrix was primarily associated with Marshall amps, he did occasionally use Fender amplifiers, such as the Dual Showman, Bandmaster, and Bassman models. These Fender amps provided a different tone and allowed Hendrix to experiment with various sounds in his music.
What amp did Hendrix use at Woodstock?
During his legendary Woodstock performance, Jimi Hendrix used a combination of amps, with the primary choice being the Marshall Super Lead. This model was highly favored by him due to its ability to project his distinct and groundbreaking playing style.
Which amps did Hendrix use for studio recordings?
For studio recordings, Hendrix often employed the Marshall Super Lead as well as various Fender amps, depending on the specific tone and sound he was aiming for. The wide array of amps and equipment used in the studio allowed Hendrix to achieve a unique and varied sound across his recordings.
Did Jimi Hendrix use any Vox amplifiers?
Although not as prominently as Marshall and Fender amps, Hendrix did occasionally use Vox amplifiers, like the Vox AC30. This amp provided a distinctive tone that complemented Hendrix’s experimentation with guitar sounds and effects.
What modifications were made to Hendrix’s amps?
Jimi Hendrix made various modifications to his amps to achieve his signature sound. Some of these modifications included custom-loaded speakers and higher wattage transformers, providing increased power and volume.
This allowed Hendrix to push the limits of his guitar tones and create the groundbreaking sounds he is known for.
My name is Howard Matthews and I have been playing the guitar since I was knee-high. My parents like to joke that I was pulling the strings even before I was born. In fact, one of my earliest memories is sitting on the couch with my dad’s guitar, wreaking havoc on the chords.
Now, 40 years later, I can attest that I play them much better than I did back then. I have followed in the footsteps of both my parents – much to their delight – and have been the main guitarist in my band for the best part of three decades.
Music has always been my passion, and until recently my life has been so consumed with it that I haven’t had a moment to have a breath (and I wouldn’t have it any other way)!
