Riff Tone

Ziggy Stardust (2012 Remaster)

David Bowie

Guitarrock1970s

Original Gear

GuitarGibson Les Paul Custom (early 1970s, likely 1968 model, as used by Mick Ronson)

AmpMarshall Major 200W head with Marshall 4x12 cabinet (studio recording, 1972)

PickupsStock Gibson humbuckers (PAF-style, late 60s/early 70s)

Amp Settings

gain6

bass6.5

mid7.5

treble6.5

reverb1

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

fuzzVox Vox Tone Bender Mk1.5 Fuzz

wahVox Vox (Italian) Wah (set to fixed/cocked position)

Notes

Studio recording for 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' (2012 Remaster is a remaster of the 1972 studio recording). Mick Ronson played the riff section. No evidence of live rig or alternate guitars/amps for this part.

Tone Character(10)

thick and saturatedmid-forward and punchytight and articulatesinging sustain on chordsslight fuzzinesscocked-wah filtered upper midsclassic glam rock bitedynamic and touch-sensitivedry, no ambienceno excessive low end

Difficulty

The riff is rhythmically tight and requires good timing and dynamic control, but uses basic chord shapes and moderate tempo, making it accessible to intermediate players.

Sources

David Bowie – The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (2012 Remaster) - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard Best combo for Ziggy tones. - The Gear Page Mick Ronson honored with signature Dunlop Cry Baby wah pedal | Guitar World The Mighty Tone Bender Fuzz: A 50-Year Legacy - Premier Guitar

This tone has been researched 2 times by the community

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