What is Paul Simon's primary acoustic guitar for complex fingerstyle?

Simon frequently utilizes the warm and resonant **Martin OM-42** to ground his complex fingerstyle arrangements.

Did Paul Simon use any specific digital recording equipment for his albums?

Yes, he utilized the **Sony PCM-3324** digital multitrack recorder during his career.

What 12-string guitar has Paul Simon used?

He has used an **Epiphone Riviera 12-String** for specific electric textures.

Which guitar did Simon use when he needed a thin-line acoustic-electric for stage use?

He utilized the **Guild Songbird S4CE-NT** (also listed as the **Guild Songbird S4CE-NT Acoustic Guitar**).

What electric guitar is Paul Simon known to use?

Simon has employed a **Fender Esquire** for electric textures in his music.

Are there any specific vintage-style acoustics Simon is associated with?

Yes, he often uses the **Martin D-18**, which is a staple for his folk and rock sounds.

Did Paul Simon use Ovation guitars?

Yes, he has used the **Ovation Custom Legend 1619-4**.

What smaller-scale acoustic brands has Simon played?

He has played instruments by **Gurian Michael Gurian** and the **Yamaha FG720S**.

How many Grammy Awards has Paul Simon won?

Paul Simon has won 12 Grammy Awards throughout his career.

Is Paul Simon still active in the music industry?

Yes, his status is currently listed as active.

Article

Paul Simon's gear: the instruments behind their career

Paul Simon is a legendary American singer-songwriter whose guitar work grounds his evolution from folk-rock to world music explorations. His sound is defined by warm, resonant acoustic tones, frequently achieved through high-end Martin instruments, which support his intricate fingerstyle arrangements.

Early Career and Folk Evolution

Emerging from the 1960s folk scene, Simon established a reputation for literate songwriting and sophisticated arrangements. During this period and into his solo career, he relied on quality acoustic instruments to provide the rhythmic and melodic foundation for his work. The Yamaha FG720S and various Gurian Michael Gurian guitars have been part of his toolkit, offering the clarity required for his complex fingerstyle techniques. To add textural variety, particularly in his more pop-oriented arrangements, he has utilised the Epiphone Riviera 12-String, providing a shimmering choral effect to his recordings.

Global Rhythms and Sonic Architecture

Simon's career is defined by a restless creative curiosity that culminated in his 1986 landmark album, 'Graceland'. This period saw him blending global traditions with sophisticated pop. To capture these dense, multi-layered sessions, he employed the Sony PCM-3324 digital multitrack recorder, a tool that reflected his commitment to sonic excellence. In live settings during this era, the Ovation Custom Legend 1619-4 became a frequent choice, favoured for its ability to cut through a large band mix while maintaining acoustic-like properties.

Signature Acoustic Tones

The core of Paul Simon's sound remains his choice of high-quality acoustic guitars. He is most frequently associated with the warm, resonant tones of the Martin OM-42, an instrument that perfectly suits his nuanced playing style. Additionally, the Martin D-18 has been a staple of his gear, providing a traditional folk-rock foundation. These instruments are chosen for their ability to ground his diverse musical explorations in a consistent, organic sound.

Electric Textures and Stage Solutions

While primarily an acoustic player, Simon has occasionally turned to electric instruments to provide specific textures. The Fender Esquire has been used for its bright, punchy tone that complements funk and soul elements in his later work. For live performances where mobility and feedback resistance are crucial, Simon has frequently turned to the Guild Songbird S4CE-NT (also known as the Guild Songbird S4CE-NT Acoustic Guitar). This thin-line acoustic-electric allows for a more streamlined stage presence without sacrificing the acoustic character of his songs.

Artists who have used this item

Paul Simon
Singer

Frequently asked questions

What is Paul Simon's primary acoustic guitar for complex fingerstyle?: Simon frequently utilizes the warm and resonant **Martin OM-42** to ground his complex fingerstyle arrangements.
Did Paul Simon use any specific digital recording equipment for his albums?: Yes, he utilized the **Sony PCM-3324** digital multitrack recorder during his career.
What 12-string guitar has Paul Simon used?: He has used an **Epiphone Riviera 12-String** for specific electric textures.
Which guitar did Simon use when he needed a thin-line acoustic-electric for stage use?: He utilized the **Guild Songbird S4CE-NT** (also listed as the **Guild Songbird S4CE-NT Acoustic Guitar**).
What electric guitar is Paul Simon known to use?: Simon has employed a **Fender Esquire** for electric textures in his music.
Are there any specific vintage-style acoustics Simon is associated with?: Yes, he often uses the **Martin D-18**, which is a staple for his folk and rock sounds.
Did Paul Simon use Ovation guitars?: Yes, he has used the **Ovation Custom Legend 1619-4**.
What smaller-scale acoustic brands has Simon played?: He has played instruments by **Gurian Michael Gurian** and the **Yamaha FG720S**.
How many Grammy Awards has Paul Simon won?: Paul Simon has won 12 Grammy Awards throughout his career.
Is Paul Simon still active in the music industry?: Yes, his status is currently listed as active.

Last updated: 2026-10-15