Vox Player Distortion: The Key to Brian May's Iconic Sound

The legendary guitarist Brian May is known for his unique and iconic sound, which has been a major part of Queen's success throughout their career. One of the key elements that contribute to this distinctive tone is the Vox player distortion pedal. In this article, we'll explore how this pedal helped shape Brian May's sound and how you can incorporate it into your own playing.

The problem with using a Vox AC30 amplifier is that it can be quite loud, which isn't always ideal for every performance or recording situation. However, by adding a treble booster pedal in the signal chain, guitarists like Brian May were able to achieve the same tone without having to crank up the volume. The 'Guitar -> Treble Booster -> Vox AC30' configuration became a popular setup among many guitarists during this time.

One of the most famous stories about Brian May's discovery of the Vox player distortion pedal is that he first saw it being used by his friend Rory Gallagher live in concert. From then on, May went on to use the pedal extensively throughout his career with Queen and in his solo albums. The treble booster pedal became a staple of his sound, allowing him to achieve the signature tone that fans have come to associate with Brian May.

So what makes the Vox player distortion pedal so special? One of its key features is its ability to replicate the sound of a Vox AC30 amplifier's 'Normal channel', which includes both the tone-work of the preamplifier and the characteristics of the power amp. This means that guitarists can achieve a harmonious, detailed sound that evokes the classic tone of this legendary amplifier.

The Kensington Supreme pedal is a custom-built unit that takes inspiration from Brian May's sound and incorporates the circuitry of their own Kensington pedal to evoke the tones of a Vox AC30 amplifier. The addition of an adjustable Master Volume allows guitarists to split rhythms and solo lines, giving them greater control over their tone.

In conclusion, the Vox player distortion pedal has played a major role in shaping Brian May's iconic sound throughout his career with Queen. By incorporating this pedal into your own playing, you can achieve a similar tone that has been a hallmark of rock music for decades. Whether you're looking to recreate Brian May's sound or develop your own unique tone, the Vox player distortion pedal is an essential tool that every guitarist should consider using.