Eddie Van Halen
Van Halen
The guitarist who redefined the instrument with his tapping technique, tone, and 'Frankenstrat' modifications. His 'Brown Sound' remains the benchmark of rock guitar tone, characterized by a voltage-starved Marshall Plexi and signature phaser and flanger textures.
SIGNATURE TONE
The 'Brown Sound' is the gold standard of rock tone: warm, organic, and incredibly articulate distortion with a 'spongy' feel from the voltage-starved amp. It features a percussive attack, rich harmonics, and a smooth sustain that blooms into feedback. Key ingredients include a humbucker direct-mounted to the body, a Phase 90 for texture, and a Marshall Plexi run at lower voltage.
SIGNAL CHAINS BY ERA
Explore how the rig evolved over time
The Brown Sound (1978-1982)
The era of the 'Brown Sound' - a legendary, warm, organic distortion created by starving the voltage of a Marshall Plexi. Defined by the Frankenstrat, Phase 90, and innovative use of effects before the amp.
5150 / Hagar Era (1984-1995)
Transition to rack gear, wet/dry/wet setups, and the development of the Peavey 5150 amplifier. The tone became tighter, more saturated, and effects-heavy with the Eventide Harmonizer.
Modern / EVH Brand Era (2007-2020)
The final evolution of his gear with his own EVH brand under Fender. Featuring the Wolfgang guitar and 5150 III amps.