How to Get Slash’s Guitar Tone

Want to nail that unmistakable Slash sound? You know, the one that screams rock ‘n’ roll with every note? Getting Slash’s guitar tone isn’t just about picking up a Les Paul and plugging into a Marshall. It’s a blend of gear, technique, and a pinch of attitude. Let’s unravel the secrets to getting that iconic tone.

The Basics of Slash’s Gear

When it comes to chasing down Slash’s tone, the first stop on our journey is his gear. Slash’s setup might seem straightforward, but it’s all in the details.

Gibson Les Paul

Slash and the Gibson Les Paul go together like peanut butter and jelly. His go-to is typically a Les Paul Standard, often equipped with Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro pickups. These pickups are known for their warm, vintage tone, perfect for those smooth solos and crunchy rhythms. If you’re on a budget, Epiphone offers a Slash signature model that’s more wallet-friendly but still packs a punch.

Marshall Amplifiers

The next piece of the puzzle is the amp. Slash predominantly uses Marshall amps, specifically the JCM800. This amp is synonymous with the classic rock sound. It delivers that rich, harmonic distortion that defines many of Slash’s riffs. If a JCM800 is out of reach, there are plenty of amp simulators and pedals that can mimic this legendary sound.

The Pedalboard

While Slash’s tone is largely derived from his guitar and amp, pedals play their part too. A few essentials include:

• Wah Pedal: Slash’s use of the wah pedal is iconic, especially noticeable in songs like “Sweet Child O’ Mine”. The Dunlop Cry Baby is his pedal of choice.
• Overdrive: While the amp provides a lot of the distortion, an overdrive pedal like an MXR Boost/Overdrive can push it just a bit further.
• Delay: To add depth to solos, a simple delay pedal will do. Slash often uses delay to add a touch of echo to his leads.

Of course, gear alone won’t get you there. It’s about how you use it.

Setting Up Your Amp

So you’ve got the gear, but how do you set it up? Dialing in your amp settings is crucial for getting that Slash tone.

EQ Settings

Slash tends to go for a balanced EQ, with a bit of a mid-boost. Here’s a rough starting point for your amp settings:

• Bass: 5
• Mid: 7
• Treble: 6
• Presence: 5

Remember, these are just starting points. Your guitar, amp, and room acoustics can all affect the sound, so don’t be afraid to tweak those knobs.

Gain and Volume

Slash’s tone is known for its clarity, even when it’s heavily distorted. To achieve this, keep your gain at a level where your notes remain distinct. Crank up the volume to let the amp’s natural tone shine through. This approach gives you that classic rock crunch without losing note definition.

Interestingly enough, at Riffhard, we have lessons that delve into amp settings for achieving various tones. Our instructors often share insights on how to get the best sound out of your gear.

Technique Matters

Gear is only half the battle. Slash’s technique is essential to his sound. Let’s break it down.

Pick Attack

Slash has a distinctive pick attack that’s aggressive yet controlled. He often uses a heavier gauge pick, which helps produce a fuller sound. Practice alternate picking with precision and focus on consistency.

Bending and Vibrato

Slash’s solos are filled with expressive bends and vibrato. To replicate this, make sure your bends are in tune. Spend time practicing slow, controlled bends to develop muscle memory. Vibrato should be broad and even, adding emotion to each note.

Slide and Hammer-Ons

These techniques add fluidity to Slash’s solos. Work on smooth transitions between notes using slides and hammer-ons. Start slow and gradually increase speed, ensuring clarity with each note.

At Riffhard, our lessons cover these techniques extensively, with instructors like Dave Davidson providing tips on refining your playing style.

Signature Riffs and Licks

Slash’s playing is known for its memorable riffs and licks. Let’s look at a few examples.

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” Intro

This riff is instantly recognizable. The trick lies in the picking pattern and the use of open strings. Practice the pattern slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before speeding up.

“Paradise City” Solo

The solo in “Paradise City” is a masterclass in phrasing. Focus on the bends and vibrato, as these are crucial to capturing the feel of the solo. Break it down into sections and tackle each one individually.

“Welcome to the Jungle” Riff

This riff combines power chords with single-note lines. It’s essential to maintain a tight rhythm and consistent pick attack. Use a metronome to keep your timing spot on.

For those interested in learning these riffs in detail, Riffhard has video lessons breaking down famous metal and rock riffs, providing insights into Slash’s playing style.

Recording Tips

Whether you’re jamming at home or in a studio, capturing Slash’s tone on record requires some finesse. Here are some recording tips to consider.

Microphone Placement

When recording with a mic, the placement can drastically affect your tone. A mic placed directly in front of the amp’s speaker will capture a full, bright sound. Experiment with distance and angle to find what works best for your setup.

Use of Effects

While Slash’s live setup might be straightforward, in the studio, effects can add dimension. Reverb and delay can provide depth to your recordings. Use these effects sparingly, ensuring they enhance rather than overpower your sound.

Double Tracking

For that thick, rich sound, try double tracking your guitar parts. Record two separate takes and pan them left and right. This technique gives recordings a fuller, more professional sound.

Recording can be an art in itself, and at Riffhard, we share practical tips on how to best capture and produce your guitar playing.

The Role of Attitude

Finally, let’s not forget the intangible element: attitude. Slash’s playing is as much about his mindset as it is about his gear and technique.

When you play, channel the energy and emotion that Slash is known for. Let your personality shine through your playing. Confidence is key, whether you’re playing a blazing solo or a simple rhythm part.

Remember, nailing Slash’s tone is also about interpreting and making it your own. After all, the best musicians are those who take inspiration and add their unique twist.

Final Thoughts

Getting Slash’s guitar tone requires a mix of the right gear, precise technique, and a good dose of rock ‘n’ roll attitude. While it might take some time to nail every aspect, the journey is part of the fun. At Riffhard, we offer lessons that can help you refine your skills and bring you closer to achieving that iconic sound. Happy shredding!