The Sound of Thunder: Unpacking the Guitars Behind AC/DC's Raw Power
For decades, the unmistakable riffage of AC/DC has been the soundtrack to countless parties, road trips, and air guitar solos. But what guitars are behind that thunderous sound? For the average rock fan, the answer might seem as simple as "loud ones." However, for those who delve a little deeper, a fascinating story unfolds, centered around a few iconic instruments that have shaped the band's legendary tone. This article will break down the key guitars that have powered AC/DC's electrifying career.
The Unquestionable King: The Gibson SG
When you think of AC/DC, especially in their formative years and with the legendary Bon Scott at the helm, one guitar immediately springs to mind: the Gibson SG. Angus Young's primary weapon of choice, the SG, is virtually synonymous with the band's early aggression and raw energy. Its distinctive double-cutaway body, thinner than a Les Paul, and its powerful humbucker pickups contribute significantly to that signature AC/DC crunch.
Angus Young has a long and storied relationship with the SG. He's favored several models over the years, but a few stand out:
- The "Cherry Red" SG: This is arguably the most iconic AC/DC guitar. Angus acquired it in the early 1970s and it became his go-to instrument for much of the Bon Scott era and into the Brian Johnson years. Its simple, no-nonsense design perfectly mirrored the band's musical philosophy.
- Modified SGs: Over time, Angus has made modifications to his SGs, including different pickups and sometimes even altering the headstock. These tweaks are often in pursuit of that perfect, searing tone.
- Various Gibson SG models: While the cherry red SG is the most famous, Angus has been seen with and used numerous other Gibson SGs throughout his career, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty to the model.
The SG's inherent qualities – its bright, biting tone and its relative lightness compared to a Les Paul – make it ideal for Angus's high-energy, riff-driven playing style. The sustain and power of the humbucker pickups are crucial for cutting through the dense rhythm section of AC/DC.
The Reliable Workhorse: The Gibson Les Paul
While the SG often steals the spotlight, the Gibson Les Paul has also played a significant role in AC/DC's sonic arsenal, particularly for Malcolm Young. Malcolm, the band's rhythm guitarist and co-founder, was the bedrock of their sound, laying down those driving, unforgettable riffs. His choice of instrument often reflected a desire for a thicker, more powerful rhythm tone.
Malcolm Young's primary Les Paul was a:
- 1963 Gretsch Jet Firebird: While not a Gibson, this is the guitar Malcolm is most famously associated with during the early Bon Scott era and the early Brian Johnson years. Its distinctive sound and classic aesthetic were integral to his riffing. It had a solid body and two Filter'Tron pickups, giving it a bright and punchy tone.
- Later Gibson Les Pauls: As the band progressed, Malcolm also utilized various Gibson Les Paul models. These guitars, with their mahogany bodies and humbucker pickups, provide a warmer, more resonant tone that complements Angus's sharper SG sound. The Les Paul is known for its thick, sustain-rich sound, perfect for heavy rhythm work.
Malcolm's playing was characterized by its precision and power. The Les Paul, with its robust construction and thicker sound, allowed him to create the solid rhythmic foundation that AC/DC is so famous for. It’s often said that Malcolm's rhythm guitar playing was just as crucial, if not more so, to the band's sound as Angus's lead work.
Other Notable Axes
While the SG and the Les Paul (and Malcolm's Gretsch) are the cornerstones of the AC/DC guitar sound, other instruments have made appearances:
- Gibson EDS-1275 Double Neck: Angus famously used a Gibson EDS-1275 double-neck guitar for live performances of "Highway to Hell" and "The Jack." This allowed him to switch between different tunings or guitar sounds without interrupting the song.
- Fender Telecaster: While not a primary instrument, there have been instances where Angus has been seen with Fender Telecasters, particularly in earlier periods. Their brighter, twangier sound offers a different tonal palette.
The choice of amplifier is also crucial to the AC/DC sound. They are famously known for using Marshall amplifiers, often cranked to deafening volumes. The combination of their chosen guitars and these powerful amps creates the legendary, no-frills rock and roll tone that defines AC/DC.
The AC/DC Philosophy of Tone
What makes AC/DC's guitar sound so distinctive isn't just the specific models they use, but their approach to playing and tone. It's a philosophy of simplicity, power, and relentless drive. They eschew excessive effects pedals, preferring to get their sound directly from the guitar, the amplifier, and the player's hands. This raw, unadulterated approach is what has kept their sound so vital and influential for so many years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about AC/DC's Guitars
How did Angus Young get his first iconic Gibson SG?
Angus Young acquired his famous cherry red Gibson SG in the early 1970s. He has mentioned in interviews that he traded in a guitar he wasn't happy with to get it. This SG became his primary instrument and a symbol of his signature playing style and AC/DC's early sound.
Why did Malcolm Young favor the Gretsch Jet Firebird for so long?
Malcolm Young's Gretsch Jet Firebird, acquired in the late 1960s, was chosen for its distinctive bright and punchy tone, provided by its Filter'Tron pickups. This sound was perfect for his powerful and driving rhythm guitar style, which formed the backbone of AC/DC's music. He used it extensively throughout the Bon Scott era and into the Brian Johnson years.
Does AC/DC use a lot of effects pedals?
No, AC/DC is known for their minimalist approach to guitar effects. They typically rely on the natural tone of their Gibson guitars and Marshall amplifiers, cranked to achieve their signature sound. While they might use a wah pedal or a compressor for specific songs or live solos, their core tone is built on raw amplification and guitar-to-amp interaction.
Are Angus Young's guitars significantly modified?
While Angus Young is loyal to his Gibson SGs, he has made some modifications over the years. These often involve changing pickups to achieve specific tonal qualities or adjusting hardware for better playability. However, the fundamental design of the SG remains central to his sound. His guitars are often well-worn and road-tested, reflecting his high-energy stage performance.
