The Quest for the "Brown Sound" Phaser
For legions of guitarists, the name Eddie Van Halen is synonymous with groundbreaking guitar tone. His legendary "brown sound" wasn't just about amp modifications and guitar tinkering; it also involved the masterful use of effects pedals. Among these, the phaser played a crucial role in shaping some of his most iconic riffs and solos. So, the question on many minds is: Which phaser did EVH use? Let's dive deep into the gear that helped define his sound.
The Reign of the MXR Phase 90
The undeniable king of Eddie Van Halen's phaser arsenal was the MXR Phase 90. This pedal, with its simple four-knob design (Input, Output, Speed, and sometimes a "script" switch), became an extension of his sonic palette. It's widely documented and confirmed by the man himself in various interviews that the Phase 90 was his go-to for that unmistakable swirling, swooshing effect that drenched tracks like "Eruption," "Atomic Punk," and "Unchained."
Why the Phase 90?
Several factors likely contributed to EVH's preference for the MXR Phase 90:
- Simplicity: The pedal's straightforward controls meant he could quickly dial in the desired effect without getting bogged down in complex menus or settings. This was crucial for his spontaneous and energetic playing style.
- Tone: The Phase 90, especially the vintage models, possessed a certain warmth and intensity that complemented his already powerful Marshall amp tone. It wasn't an overly subtle effect; it had a character all its own.
- Ubiquity: In the 1970s and early 1980s, the MXR Phase 90 was a popular and readily available effect, making it a natural choice for many guitarists, including Eddie.
The "Script" vs. "Block" Logo Debate
Within the realm of the MXR Phase 90, there's a distinction that often comes up: the "script" logo versus the "block" logo models. Eddie Van Halen was known to favor the earlier **"script" logo Phase 90s**. These pedals are generally considered to have a slightly milder, more refined phase sound compared to the later "block" logo versions, which could be more intense and aggressive. This subtle difference likely suited Eddie's preference for a phase that enhanced, rather than overwhelmed, his core guitar tone.
Modifications and Experimentation
While the Phase 90 was his staple, it's also important to remember that Eddie Van Halen was a relentless experimenter. He was known to modify his gear extensively to achieve his unique sound. It's plausible that he tinkered with his Phase 90s, perhaps changing components or circuit designs to further tailor the effect to his specific needs. However, the fundamental pedal remained the MXR Phase 90.
Beyond the Phase 90?
While the MXR Phase 90 is the undisputed primary phaser associated with EVH, it's worth noting that artists of his stature often have access to a wide array of gear. However, there's no strong evidence or widespread documentation to suggest he heavily relied on other phaser pedals for his signature sounds. His distinctive phaser tones are almost universally attributed to the MXR Phase 90, either in its stock form or with subtle modifications.
The Legacy of EVH's Phaser Tone
The phaser effect, when employed by Eddie Van Halen, wasn't just an embellishment; it was an integral part of the song's structure and the guitar's voice. It added movement, excitement, and a sense of urgency to his playing, becoming an instantly recognizable element of the Van Halen sound. When you hear that classic swirling, pumping effect on a Van Halen track, chances are you're hearing the magic of the MXR Phase 90, manipulated by the hands of a true guitar innovator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How did EVH use the phaser effect?
Eddie Van Halen masterfully used the phaser effect to add movement, depth, and a signature swirl to his guitar tones. He would often engage it during solos and riffs to create a more dynamic and attention-grabbing sound. He typically set the speed control to a moderate to fast setting, allowing the sweeping effect to propel his playing forward.
Why did EVH prefer the MXR Phase 90?
EVH likely preferred the MXR Phase 90 due to its simple operation, its distinctive and powerful tone that complemented his Marshall amps, and its ability to be easily modified to suit his exacting sonic requirements. The pedal offered a prominent, yet musical, phase effect that was essential to his "brown sound".
Did EVH use any other phaser pedals?
While the MXR Phase 90 is overwhelmingly credited with producing EVH's iconic phaser sounds, it's always possible he experimented with other pedals. However, there's no significant evidence to suggest he relied on other phaser pedals as heavily or that they were instrumental in defining his signature tone.
How can I achieve a similar phaser tone to EVH?
To get close to EVH's phaser tone, you'll want to use an MXR Phase 90 or a modern reissue or clone. Experiment with the speed knob, generally favoring a moderate to fast setting. Ensure your amp is driven and your guitar's tone controls are set to produce a bright, punchy sound that the phaser can then color and enhance.
