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Brian May's gear: the instruments behind their career
Sir Brian May is an iconic English guitarist whose sound is defined by complex, multi-tracked arrangements and orchestral textures. By combining bespoke guitar designs with a distinctive amplifier setup, he has shaped the sound of rock, metal, and glam rock throughout his career with Queen.
The Evolution of a Signature Tone
Since the late 1960s, Brian May has utilized a specific combination of equipment to achieve his dense, harmonic sound. Central to his live and studio rig is the Vox AC30, an amplifier known for its chime and responsiveness. To push these units into their characteristic saturated sustain, he employs the Greg Fryer Treble Booster Touring pedal, which allows his lead lines to cut through the mix with the precision required for his operatic arrangements. For specific low-end responses, he has also been noted for using the JMI Vox AC30/6 Bass amplifier.
Primary Electric Guitars
While his career is famously built upon his handmade 'Red Special', May has incorporated various professional models to expand his sonic palette. The Guild Brian May Pro BM01 and the Brian May Guitars BMG Special provide reliable iterations of his signature design for touring and recording. Beyond these, May has utilised the Gibson Flying V for its distinct aesthetic and tonal properties. His work with Fender models is extensive, including the Fender Stratocaster, a Fender Esquire, and the modern Fender EOB Sustainer Stratocaster, the latter of which aids in creating the infinite sustain found in his atmospheric work.
Acoustic and Twelve-String Textures
To achieve the lush, orchestral textures that define Queen's more folk-influenced or progressive compositions, May utilizes a variety of multi-stringed instruments. The Ovation 1658 Legend Custom 12-String has been a staple for live performances, complemented by the Godin A12 12-String Semi-Acoustic. For specific studio recordings and performances requiring twelve-string electric tones, he has turned to the Burns Double Six.
Effects and Modern Rig Integration
As a scholar with a PhD in astrophysics, May’s approach to gear is characterized by technical precision. His modern touring rig incorporates the TC Electronic G-System, a comprehensive effects processor that manages his signal chain and time-based effects. Historically, he has used the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble to add thickness and width to his guitar signal, helping to bridge the gap between hard rock and the pop-influenced funk and soul tracks found in the band's later discography. Even unconventional choices like the Washburn RR-V show his willingness to experiment with different body shapes and electronics throughout his active career.
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Frequently asked questions
- Which amplifier is most associated with Brian May's career?
- Brian May is most famously associated with the **Vox AC30**.
- What pedal does Brian May use to boost his signal for solos?
- He uses the **Greg Fryer Treble Booster Touring** pedal.
- Has Brian May ever used a Fender Stratocaster?
- Yes, he has used the **Fender Stratocaster** as well as the **Fender EOB Sustainer Stratocaster**.
- Which 12-string acoustic guitar is in his collection?
- He uses the **Ovation 1658 Legend Custom 12-String**.
- What modern multi-effects system does he use for touring?
- He uses the **TC Electronic G-System**.
- Are there any specific bass-voiced amplifiers in his rig?
- Yes, he has used the **JMI Vox AC30/6 Bass**.
- What commercial versions of his signature guitar does he use?
- He uses the **Guild Brian May Pro BM01** and the **Brian May Guitars BMG Special**.
- Did Brian May ever play a Gibson?
- Yes, he has used a **Gibson Flying V**.
- Which semi-acoustic 12-string guitar is part of his gear list?
- The **Godin A12 12-String Semi-Acoustic** is part of his gear list.
- What chorus pedal helped define his lush textures?
- The **Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble** was used to craft his signature orchestral sound.
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