Steve Vai
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Instrumental Rock Hard Rock Experimental

Steve Vai

Solo / David Lee Roth / Whitesnake

The alien guitar virtuoso. A spiritual seeker of tone, he revolutionized rock guitar with his vocal-like phrasing, extreme whammy bar technique, and the design of the JEM, turning the instrument into an extension of his body.

3 Eras
13 Gear Items

SIGNATURE TONE

Vocal, fluid, and otherworldly. Defined by the use of the Lydian mode, extensive whammy bar phrasing, wah pedal expressiveness, and a saturated, singing distortion.

SIGNAL CHAINS BY ERA

Explore how the rig evolved over time

1

Zappa / Alcatrazz Era (1980-1985)

1980-1985 3 items
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The 'Stunt Guitarist' years. Modified Strats and the birth of the Green Meanie.

2

Passion and Warfare Era (1990)

1990 6 items
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The instrumental masterpiece. The Ibanez Universe 7-string and Eventide harmonizers defined a new era of guitar.

3

Inviolate / Hydra Era (2022-Present)

2022-Present 4 items
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Pushing boundaries again with the triple-neck Hydra and the Ibanez PIA.