How to Get an ’80s Guitar Sound

The ’80s were a golden era for guitarists, with iconic sounds that left a lasting stamp on music history. Whether it was the soaring solos or the crunchy riffs, the ’80s guitar sound is something many players still chase today. If you’re itching to recreate those electrifying tones, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down how to get that classic ’80s guitar sound into bite-sized pieces.

Getting the Right Guitar

First things first, let’s talk gear. The guitar you choose plays a huge role in nailing the ’80s vibe. Back in the day, guitars with humbuckers were all the rage. Think Gibson Les Pauls, Ibanez RGs, and, of course, the iconic Fender Stratocasters, often modified with a humbucker in the bridge.

• Humbuckers: These are key for achieving the thicker, more powerful tone synonymous with ’80s rock and metal. They reduce the noise and offer a beefier sound compared to single-coil pickups.
• Floyd Rose Tremolo: This floating bridge system was a must-have for many guitarists, enabling those wild dive bombs and pitch shifts that defined the era.
• Neck Profile: The ’80s favored thin necks for fast playability. If shredding is your goal, a guitar with a slim neck will help you move quickly across the fretboard.

If you’re looking to invest in a guitar specifically for ’80s sounds, brands like Ibanez and Jackson are known for their shred-friendly designs. But remember, while gear matters, it’s only part of the equation.

Amplifiers and Effects

Next up, we need to tackle amplifiers and effects. The ’80s were defined by high-gain amps and a particular set of effects that shaped the sound.

• High-Gain Amps: Marshall and Mesa/Boogie amps were the go-to choices, known for their ability to produce powerful, saturated distortion. The Marshall JCM800, in particular, was a favorite among many rock and metal bands.
• Chorus and Reverb: Chorus effects were used to add depth and width to clean and distorted tones. Reverb was essential for creating that larger-than-life sound, making solos seem like they’re played in a massive arena.
• Delay: A staple for solos, delay added an echo effect that made lead lines sound even more dramatic and expansive.

For those on a budget, digital modeling amps or multi-effects units can emulate these sounds quite convincingly. They often come with presets that mimic classic ’80s tones, making it easier to get started.

Dialing in the Tone

Now that we have the gear sorted, it’s time to dial in that tone. Here’s a simple approach to getting started:

• EQ Settings: The ’80s tone often featured scooped mids. Set your bass and treble higher than the mids to achieve that sound.
• Gain: Don’t shy away from cranking the gain. The ’80s were all about high distortion levels, especially in metal genres.
• Presence: Increasing the presence on your amp can give your tone more bite and clarity. This is useful for cutting through a mix, especially in live settings.

Experiment with these settings until you find a balance that suits your style and the specific sound you’re chasing. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all setting, so let your ears guide you.

Iconic Techniques

Aside from gear, the ’80s sound is also about technique. Many playing styles became popular during this time, which contributed to the unique sound of the decade.

• Tapping: Eddie Van Halen’s influence is undeniable. Tapping involves using your picking hand to fret notes, allowing for quick runs and arpeggios that sound fluid and impressive.
• Pinch Harmonics: Creating squealing overtones by striking the string with the thumb or pick edge is quintessentially ’80s. Practice finding the sweet spots on your strings where these harmonics come alive.
• Sweep Picking: This technique allows for rapid arpeggio playing and was popularized by guitarists like Yngwie Malmsteen. It’s all about smoothly transitioning across strings with a single, sweeping motion.

These techniques require practice, but they are crucial in capturing the essence of ’80s guitar playing. If you’re looking for expert guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from top guitarists who specialize in these techniques.

Understanding the Music Theory

The ’80s weren’t just about flashy playing; there was solid musical knowledge behind those wild solos and catchy riffs. Understanding some basic music theory can enhance your playing significantly.

• Scales: The pentatonic and natural minor scales were heavily used. These scales provide the foundation for most solos and riffs from the era.
• Arpeggios: These are broken chords played note by note, and they’re essential for neo-classical metal—a popular style in the ’80s.
• Chord Progressions: Many ’80s songs used simple yet powerful chord progressions. Learning to recognize these can help in both playing covers and writing original pieces.

Theory might seem intimidating at first, but it’s a valuable tool for any guitarist. If you’re interested, Riffhard has resources to help demystify music theory and make it relevant to modern metal playing.

Mastering the Riffs

Riffs are the backbone of many ’80s songs. They’re not just filler; they’re catchy, memorable, and often the most recognizable part of a song. To nail the ’80s sound, you need to get comfortable with crafting and playing riffs.

• Power Chords: These two-note chords are the bread and butter of rock music. They’re easy to play and pack a punch, making them perfect for crafting memorable riffs.
• Alternate Picking: This technique involves picking each note in a riff using alternating up and down strokes, allowing for speed and precision.
• Syncopation: Playing on the off-beat adds a dynamic feel to your riffs, making them more engaging and rhythmically interesting.

Practicing riffs from your favorite ’80s tunes can help you understand what makes them tick. And if you want to take your riffing skills to the next level, Riffhard is filled with lessons that break down complex riffs into manageable parts.

Recording Your Sound

Once you’ve got the sound dialed in, you might want to capture it for posterity. Recording your guitar playing can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be.

• Interface: A good audio interface will allow you to connect your guitar directly to your computer for recording.
• DAW: Digital Audio Workstations like GarageBand, Logic Pro, or Pro Tools offer plenty of tools for recording, editing, and producing your guitar tracks.
• Plugins: There are many amp and effects plugins available that can emulate classic ’80s sounds, providing more flexibility in post-production.

Experiment with different setups to find what works best for you. Remember, the goal is to capture the sound you love, whether it’s for sharing with others or just personal enjoyment.

Finding Your Unique Style

While it’s great to emulate the ’80s sound, don’t forget to add your own twist. Adapt these elements to fit your personal style and the music you want to create.

• Mix and Match: Combine different elements from various ’80s influences to create something new and fresh.
• Be Bold: The ’80s were about taking risks and pushing boundaries. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try things that might seem unconventional.
• Stay True to Yourself: Ultimately, your style should reflect who you are as a musician. Use the ’80s sound as a foundation, but build upon it with your own voice.

Creating a unique sound takes time and experimentation. Stay patient and open-minded, and remember, Riffhard is always there to help refine your technique and inspire new ideas.

Final Thoughts

Capturing the ’80s guitar sound is a blend of the right gear, technique, and a dash of musical theory. It’s a journey that’s as exciting as it is rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, these tips should get you well on your way. If you’re looking for more in-depth lessons and inspiration, Riffhard offers a treasure trove of resources from some of the world’s most respected metal guitarists. Dive in, explore, and let your guitar roar with ’80s flair!