Ozzy Osbourne Amp Settings & Guitar Tone
Ozzy's guitar tone has been defined by two legends: Randy Rhoads' neo-classical Marshall precision and Zakk Wylde's aggressive JCM800 power. Both used Marshall amps but with completely different approaches and results.
Signature Sound
Rhoads brought classical precision — his Marshall JMP with MXR Distortion + delivered a bright, articulate tone for rapid neo-classical runs. Wylde brought raw power — his JCM800 with EMG pickups and aggressive vibrato created a heavier, more brutal sound. Both guitarists share the Marshall DNA but represent opposite ends of the metal spectrum.
Featured Tone
No More Tears (1991)
1981 Gibson Les Paul Custom 'The Grail' (bullseye finish) → Marshall JCM800 2203 100W head
Massive, thick, heavy, bright yet fat. Scooped-mid/boosted-bass-and-treble with EMG brightness and tight low end. Always-on Boss CH-1 chorus provides extra body and stereo width. Isolated-track analysis: 'extremely bright and open without tearing your head off, and fat thick low end that doesn't flub or bloat.' Guitar World calls it 'bone-crushing crunch.'
Typical Gear & Settings
Average Amp Settings
Amplifiers
- Marshall JMP 1959 Super Lead 100W
- Marshall JCM800 2203 100W head
Guitars
- 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom (black)
- 1981 Gibson Les Paul Custom 'The Grail' (bullseye finish)
Pickups
- humbucker
- active humbucker
Effects & Pedals
distortion
MXR Distortion+ (1 song)
overdrive
Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive (1 song)
chorus
Boss CH-1 Super Chorus (1 song)
Playing Style
Ozzy Osbourne Song Tones
Get Ozzy Osbourne's Tone on Your Gear
Adapt Ozzy Osbourne's amp settings to your specific guitar, amp, and pedals.
Adapt to Your AmpFree — no account needed