Solo Tone

Ready to Fly

Masayoshi Takanaka

Guitarrock1970s

Original Gear

GuitarYamaha SG-2000 (likely, based on era and Takanaka's main guitar for studio work in late 1970s)

AmpRoland JC-120 Jazz Chorus (likely, based on era, genre, and Takanaka's known studio amp use; no direct source for this song, but JC-120 is strongly associated with his late 70s/early 80s sound)

PickupsYamaha SG-2000 stock humbuckers (Alnico V, dual coil)

Amp Settings

gain4.5

bass6.5

mid6.5

treble7

reverb4.5

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

compressionMaxon Maxon UE-300 Multi-Effects (Compressor, Overdrive, Chorus, Delay)

overdriveMaxon Maxon UE-300 Multi-Effects (Overdrive section)

chorusMaxon Maxon UE-300 Multi-Effects (Chorus section)

delayMaxon Maxon UE-300 Multi-Effects (Delay section)

Notes

Studio recording, 1977. No direct photo or interview confirmation for this exact solo, but Yamaha SG-2000 and Roland JC-120 are the most documented pairing for Takanaka's late 70s studio work. Maxon UE-300 multi-effects and MXR Dyna Comp compressor are seen in period-correct ads and boards, but not explicitly tied to this solo.

Tone Character(10)

smooth and singing sustainbright and articulateslightly compressed attackliquid lead linesclear note separationchorus shimmer on sustained notesdistinct delay repeatsstudio-polished claritymoderate overdrive, not high-gainarticulate, not muddy

Difficulty

The solo features fast, melodic lines with expressive bends and phrasing, requiring precise articulation and dynamic control, as well as effective use of effects for sustain and clarity.

Sources

Masayoshi Takanaka | Equipboard What's your favourite version of Ready To Fly? : r/MasayoshiTakanaka Ready to fly tone : r/MasayoshiTakanaka

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