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lead guitar from “20th century boy” by t. rex | ToneDB

20th century boy

t. rex

lead guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

Aggressive and biting glam rock guitar tone with a slightly fuzzy edge, creating a sense of raw power and energy. It's a classic '70s rock sound, full of attitude and swagger.

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The Story

The lead guitar on '20th Century Boy' was recorded at Advision Studios in London with producer Tony Visconti. The track features Marc Bolan's Gibson Les Paul through a Hiwatt DR103 amp, with a Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face providing the characteristic fuzzed sustain. The guitar was close-mic'd, likely with a Neumann U67, to capture the direct, aggressive sound that became a glam rock staple.

Production Credits

Producer: Tony Visconti

Engineer: Unknown

Recorded at: Advision Studios, London

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Les Paul and a Hiwatt-style amp for the foundation.
  • Dial in a moderate amount of gain on the amp to get a slightly crunchy tone.
  • Add a Fuzz Face pedal and adjust the fuzz and level controls to achieve the desired amount of saturation and sustain.
  • Experiment with different microphone positions to find the sweet spot of the amp.
  • Use EQ to shape the tone and remove any unwanted frequencies.
  • Apply a touch of compression to even out the dynamics and add punch.

Original Gear

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Substitutions & Recommendations

Dunlop Fuzz Face MiniShop on Reverb$120-$150

Alternative to: Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face

Authentic germanium transistor circuitry recreates the warm, saturated fuzz that pushes the Hiwatt into singing overdrive

Hiwatt Little Rig 20Shop on Reverb$400-$500

Alternative to: Hiwatt DR103

Modern Hiwatt design maintains the original's bright, punchy character at bedroom-friendly volumes

Epiphone Les Paul StudioShop on Reverb$300-$400

Alternative to: Gibson Les Paul

Humbucker pickups provide the thick midrange and sustain needed for this glam rock sound at a budget price point

ProCo RAT 2Shop on Reverb$80-$100

Alternative to: Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face

While different circuitry, provides similar aggressive saturation and midrange bite for this raw '70s tone

Neural DSP Archetype: PliniPlugin Boutique$80-$100

Alternative to: Hiwatt DR103 + Fuzz Face combination

Includes vintage-style fuzz models and British amp sims that capture the aggressive, saturated character

Sources

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