Which keyboard did Christine McVie use for her early blues work?

She frequently used the **Hohner Combo Pianet** during her time in the British blues circuit and her early years with Fleetwood Mac.

What phaser pedal did McVie use to alter her keyboard sound?

She used the **Roland AP-7 Jet Phaser** to add specific textures to her keyboard parts.

Which classic organ was a part of her equipment rig?

The **Hammond B-3** was her primary instrument for achieving traditional organ sounds.

What synthesizer did she use for string-like textures?

She used the **ARP Solina String Ensemble** to create lush, orchestral keyboard layers.

Which Moog synthesizer did Christine McVie use?

She utilised the **Moog Multimoog** in her keyboard setup.

Which microphone was used for her studio vocal recordings?

The **AKG C 451 E/C (Original)** was used in the studio to capture her performances.

Did Christine McVie use standard dynamic microphones for her vocals?

Yes, she used the **Shure SM57** and the **Beyerdynamic M500** for her vocal work.

What was a later model Hohner piano she was known to use?

In addition to the Combo model, she also used the **Hohner Pianet N II**.

When did Christine McVie stop performing?

She remained active in her career until 2022.

What was Christine McVie's role in Fleetwood Mac?

She was a singer, keyboardist, and songwriter, often described as the band's melodic architect.

Article

Christine McVie's gear: the instruments behind their career

As the melodic architect of Fleetwood Mac, Christine McVie utilised a blend of electromechanical keyboards and early synthesizers to ground the band's multi-platinum sound. Her rhythmic piano playing and smoky contralto were defined by a preference for percussive textures and sophisticated tonal clarity.

Early Blues Foundation and Fleetwood Mac Transition

Born Christine Perfect, McVie established herself in the British blues circuit with Chicken Shack before joining Fleetwood Mac in 1970. During this formative era, her sound was rooted in the percussive, reed-based tones of the Hohner Combo Pianet. This instrument allowed her to bridge her deep-rooted blues foundation with the emerging pop sensibilities that would eventually define the band's global success.

The Rumours Era and Signature Keyboards

During the legendary 'Rumours' era, McVie's gear choice was essential in providing a vital counterbalance to the band's internal turbulence. She frequently employed the Hohner Pianet N II, which provided the lush, rhythmic backbone for her songwriting. To add harmonic depth and movement to her arrangements, she integrated the Roland AP-7 Jet Phaser, an effect that complemented her steady piano style. Her classic organ textures were achieved through the industry-standard Hammond B-3, an instrument synonymous with her soulful, blues-rock contributions.

Synthesizers and Studio Textures

As the band's sound evolved into sophisticated Soft Rock and Pop Rock, McVie expanded her palette with early analogue synthesis. She used the ARP Solina String Ensemble to create the orchestral, atmospheric layers found on their multi-platinum records. Additionally, she utilised the Moog Multimoog, a monophonic synthesizer that allowed for more complex melodic lines and textures beyond the capabilities of her traditional electric pianos.

Vocal Capture and Studio Microphones

To capture her signature warm contralto, a variety of microphones were used throughout her career. In live settings and studio sessions, the Shure SM57 and Beyerdynamic M500 were staples for her vocal performances. For high-fidelity studio recording, particularly for catching the nuances of her voice and keyboard instruments, the AKG C 451 E/C (Original) was a preferred choice, ensuring her melodic contributions remained the cornerstone of the Fleetwood Mac sound until her final years of activity in 2022.

Artists who have used this item

Christine McVie
Singer

Frequently asked questions

Which keyboard did Christine McVie use for her early blues work?: She frequently used the **Hohner Combo Pianet** during her time in the British blues circuit and her early years with Fleetwood Mac.
What phaser pedal did McVie use to alter her keyboard sound?: She used the **Roland AP-7 Jet Phaser** to add specific textures to her keyboard parts.
Which classic organ was a part of her equipment rig?: The **Hammond B-3** was her primary instrument for achieving traditional organ sounds.
What synthesizer did she use for string-like textures?: She used the **ARP Solina String Ensemble** to create lush, orchestral keyboard layers.
Which Moog synthesizer did Christine McVie use?: She utilised the **Moog Multimoog** in her keyboard setup.
Which microphone was used for her studio vocal recordings?: The **AKG C 451 E/C (Original)** was used in the studio to capture her performances.
Did Christine McVie use standard dynamic microphones for her vocals?: Yes, she used the **Shure SM57** and the **Beyerdynamic M500** for her vocal work.
What was a later model Hohner piano she was known to use?: In addition to the Combo model, she also used the **Hohner Pianet N II**.
When did Christine McVie stop performing?: She remained active in her career until 2022.
What was Christine McVie's role in Fleetwood Mac?: She was a singer, keyboardist, and songwriter, often described as the band's melodic architect.

Last updated: 2026-10-14