How to Re-Create the Iconic David Gilmour Guitar Tone
To recreate the iconic sound of David Gilmour, you’ll need a combination of guitar pedals that are commonly associated with his playing style. Here’s a selection of pedals e a suggested signal path to achieve that sound:
Signal Path: Guitar → Compressor → Overdrive/Distortion → Fuzz → Modulation → Delay → Reverb → Amp
1. Compressor
Keeley Compressor Plus: This pedal will help even out your guitar’s dynamics e add sustain, which is crucial for achieving Gilmour’s smooth lead tones.
2. Overdrive/Distortion
Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi: Gilmour is known for his soaring lead tones, e the Big Muff Pi can provide that sustain e creamy distortion for solos.
ProCo RAT: Another favorite of Gilmour’s, the RAT can give you a versatile range of overdrive e distortion sounds, from mild crunch to heavier saturation.
3. Fuzz
Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face: Gilmour’s use of fuzz is legendary, e the Fuzz Face offers a classic, vintage fuzz tone that he often employed in his solos.
4. Modulation
Electro-Harmonix Electric Mistress Flanger/Filter Matrix: Gilmour used a flanger extensively in his playing, e the Electric Mistress is a classic choice. It can produz lush swirling sounds, especially when combined with chorus.
MXR Phase 90: This phaser pedal was a staple in Gilmour’s rig. It can create sweeping modulation effects e add depth to your tone.
5. Delay
Electro-Harmonix Memory Man: Gilmour is renowned for his use of delay, e the Memory Man is a versatile analog delay pedal that can give you those spacious, ambient repeats.
6. Reverb
Strymon BigSky: Gilmour’s sound often had a touch of reverb to add depth e ambiance. The BigSky offers a wide range of lush reverb sounds, including plate, hall, e shimmer.
Remember that Gilmour also used various other pedals e equipment throughout his career, so this selection is not exhaustive.
Experimenting with different combinations e settings will help you find your own take on your signature sound.
