GuitarDistortedSolo72% confidence
Starman (2012 Remaster) Solo Guitar Tone Settings — David Bowie
David Bowie · 1970s · rock
studio
Original Recording
Guitar
Gibson Les Paul Custom (1972, Mick Ronson's main guitar for Ziggy Stardust sessions)
Pickups
Gibson humbuckers (likely T-Top or PAF-style, stock on early 70s Les Paul Custom)
Amp
Marshall 100W Super Lead (Plexi, late 60s/early 70s, as used by Mick Ronson in studio)
Pickup Position
Bridge pickup
Studio recording, 1972. Solo played by Mick Ronson. Gear confirmed for Ziggy Stardust album sessions, which includes 'Starman'. No evidence of pedal use for the solo, but amp overdrive and spring reverb likely. 2012 Remaster is from original 1972 recording.
Amp Settings
Mids7
Bass6
Gain5.5
Reverb3
Treble7
Presence5.5
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Tone Character
- singing sustain
- classic British crunch
- midrange-forward lead tone
- smooth overdrive
- slightly compressed attack
- vocal-like phrasing
- articulate single-note lines
- touch-sensitive dynamics
- warm yet cutting
- amp-driven breakup
Notes & Caveats
- No direct source lists exact amp or pedal settings for the solo; values estimated based on era, genre, and typical Mick Ronson setup.
- No evidence of any pedal use for the solo; all overdrive is likely amp-based.
- No explicit mention of effects loop or pedalboard for this song/section.
- All gear and settings refer to the original 1972 studio recording, which is the source for the 2012 Remaster.
- Settings cross-referenced with genre and era conventions for accuracy. The 'Starman' solo (likely played by Mick Ronson) features a classic early-70s British rock tone: edge-of-breakup gain, forward mids, and a balanced EQ with a touch of plate reverb typical of Trident Studios. These settings reflect Ronson's use of a Les Paul into a cranked Marshall, with pronounced mids and moderate ambience.