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lead guitar from “comfortably numb” by pink floyd | ToneDB

comfortably numb

pink floyd

lead guitar

95% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A soaring, heavily sustained lead tone characterized by smooth, violin-like fuzz and epic delays, creating a vast and emotive soundscape. The iconic second solo adds a swirling, Leslie-like texture from a rotating speaker for an even grander feel.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Fender Stratocaster (1969 model, 'The Black Strat', with DiMarzio FS-1 bridge pickup, maple neck)

Amp: Hiwatt DR103 Custom 100 (driving WEM Super Starfinder 4x12 cabinets with Fane Crescendo speakers) blended with Yamaha RA-200 rotating speaker cabinet

Microphone: Shure SM57 (on Hiwatt/WEM cabinet)

Processing: MXR Dyna Comp (script logo), Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi ('Ram's Head' version, circa 1973), Electric Mistress (Electro-Harmonix, V2 or V3 flanger, used subtly), Binson Echorec II (magnetic drum echo unit)

Other: The signal from the pedalboard was split. One path went to the Hiwatt DR103 for the main dry tone. Another path (often from a separate output or buffered split) fed the Yamaha RA-200 rotating speaker cabinet (which has its own internal power amp). Both the miked Hiwatt cabinet and the miked Yamaha RA-200 were blended at the mixing console. Gilmour masterfully used his guitar's volume knob for dynamics and to clean up the fuzz.

Recording Notes

  • The song features two distinct guitar solos. The first is more direct with the Big Muff into the Hiwatt.
  • The second, longer outro solo is the most iconic and heavily features the Yamaha RA-200 rotating speaker blended with the Hiwatt, creating its signature swirling, spacious sound.
  • David Gilmour's impeccable phrasing, string bending (often whole step or more), and vibrato are as crucial to the sound as the equipment.
  • High studio volume was likely used to achieve natural sustain and amp compression from the Hiwatts.
  • The solos were meticulously composed and performed, likely involving multiple takes to achieve perfection.
  • The Binson Echorec was set for a warm, analog delay, contributing to the sense of space without being overly intrusive.

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Stratocaster-style guitar, preferably with a hotter bridge pickup or by using the bridge pickup.
  • A 'Ram's Head' Big Muff Pi (or a quality clone/reissue) is essential for the core fuzz tone.
  • Use a compressor (like an MXR Dyna Comp) before the Muff to increase sustain and even out the dynamics.
  • A clean, high-headroom amplifier (like a Hiwatt or a Fender Twin Reverb style) is a good base. Keep the amp relatively clean to let the pedals do the work.
  • To emulate the Yamaha RA-200, use a Leslie simulator pedal (e.g., Strymon Lex, Neo Ventilator) or a plugin. Blend this 'wet' signal with your main 'dry' amp tone.
  • Use analog-voiced delay, aiming for around 370-480ms for the main solo, often with multiple repeats that decay smoothly.
  • A subtle flanger (like an Electric Mistress) can add to the movement, especially when combined with the rotating speaker effect.
  • Practice smooth, lyrical bends and a controlled, wide vibrato. Listen closely to Gilmour's phrasing and articulation.
  • Don't be afraid to use your guitar's volume knob to control the amount of gain and sustain.

Sources