GuitarDistortedSolo
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