Tone Profile

A thick, aggressive, and biting mid-heavy tone featuring a unique compressed 'clank' from direct injection, blended with the warmth and roar of a cranked Marshall. This articulate yet powerful sound has a raw, overdriven character perfect for iconic riffs and searing leads.

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• Recorded primarily at Headley Grange using the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio, with additional work at Island Studios, London, for Led Zeppelin IV.
• The main guitar riff is triple-tracked, creating a massive, chorus-like effect and complex texture.
• A key component is Jimmy Page's innovative technique of plugging his Les Paul directly into a console mic preamplifier (from a Helios desk), then into an 1176 compressor for a unique, aggressive DI sound.
• This heavily compressed DI signal was then blended with a traditionally mic'd Marshall amplifier (likely a 100W Super Lead).
• The song's structure features 'call and response' between Page's guitar phrases, Robert Plant's vocals, and the rhythm section's complex, shifting time signatures.

Recreation Tips

• Use a Gibson Les Paul or a similar humbucker-equipped guitar, primarily on the bridge pickup.
• Create two distinct signal paths for blending: 1) Guitar -> DI Box -> High-Quality Mic Preamp (Helios-style if possible) -> FET Compressor (1176-style). 2) Guitar -> Marshall Plexi-style amplifier -> Speaker Cabinet -> Microphone.
• Blend the heavily compressed DI signal (which provides the 'clank' and attack) with the mic'd amp signal (for warmth, body, and roar). The balance is crucial.
• For the mic'd amp, consider a dynamic mic like a Shure SM57 or a ribbon mic like a Beyerdynamic M160. A condenser like a Neumann U67 was also likely used.
• Layer multiple takes of the guitar parts, especially for the main riff, to emulate the thickness and subtle variations of the original recording.
• Don't rely solely on amp gain; much of the aggression comes from the compressed DI signal and the natural overdrive of the cranked Marshall power section.
• Pay close attention to Jimmy Page's pick attack and phrasing, as his dynamic playing is integral to the sound.

Recommended Gear

• Gibson Custom Shop 1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue(guitar)
• Marshall 1959SLP Handwired Reissue(amp)
• Warm Audio WA-69(preamp)
• Universal Audio UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor(pedal)
• Neumann U67 Set(mic)
• Beyerdynamic M 160(mic)
• Shure SM57(mic)