Slash’s Surprising Amp Switch: The Magnatone Revolution in Guns N’ Roses
In the realm of rock music, few images are as legendary as Slash, adorned in his signature top hat, passionately shredding on a Les Paul in front of towering stacks of Marshall amplifiers. This iconic setup has defined his sound and that of Guns N’ Roses for decades. So, it came as a shock when he opted for Magnatone amps during the band’s recent tour, a decision he kept under wraps.
The Unexpected Transition
Marshall amplifiers have long been the backbone of Slash’s sound, contributing to some of Guns N’ Roses’ most memorable tracks. however, in 2023, while crafting his blues album, Orgy of the Damned, Slash made the surprising choice to incorporate Magnatone amps into his setup.
“It was a meaningful shift for me,” Slash shared in an interview with Guitarist. “During the pre-production phase of the album, I began experimenting with different arrangements and felt the urge to step away from my usual Marshall tone. I had a collection of amps, including fender Twins, Fender Deluxes, and a vox half-stack, but none felt right.”
A Revelation in Sound
As he explored various amplifiers, Slash stumbled upon a Magnatone amp that had been gifted to him but remained unused until now.”When I plugged it in, I ended up using it for every track,” he recalled, marking a pivotal moment in his musical journey.
“It was a revelation that brought a new clarity to my sound,” he continued. “I realized I was growing weary of the predictable Marshall tone that I had become synonymous with.”
Joining the Ranks of Legends
Slash’s signature 100-watt Magnatone amp, which boasts a British-voiced sound, joined a prestigious lineup of artists who have embraced the brand, including Billy Gibbons and Mike Campbell. Earlier this year, he also received a striking purple snakeskin practice amp. Though, when he returned to Guns N’ Roses after working on Orgy of the Damned, the transition to Magnatone amps went largely unnoticed.
“Without anyone knowing,I replaced my Marshalls with Magnatones for the next guns N’ Roses tour,and it became my signature sound,” he revealed. “Later, I collaborated with Magnatone to design the 100-watt [SL-100] model, which is what I’m currently using.”
Exploring New Musical Horizons
Orgy of the Damned allowed slash to reconnect with his blues roots, providing the perfect opportunity to experiment with different amplifiers and even try out a stratocaster or two. However,when it comes to Guns N’ Roses,he has skillfully integrated both amp styles to create a unique sound.
For more insights into Slash’s musical journey and his thoughts on the evolution of his sound, check out the latest issue of Guitarist, which commemorates a century of Gibson Flat-top acoustics. Grab your copy today at Magazines Direct!
