Pearl Jam Amp Settings & Guitar Tone
Mike McCready brought classic rock guitar heroics to grunge. His Hendrix-influenced Marshall JCM800 tone and expressive wah work proved that grunge and virtuosity could coexist.
Signature Sound
McCready's tone is the most classic-rock-influenced in grunge. His Marshall JCM800 provides bright, aggressive crunch that suits his Hendrix-inspired playing. Wah pedals are central to his soloing, and his aggressive dynamics and string bending bring classic rock energy to Seattle's underground scene.
Featured Tone
Alive (1991)
Fender Telecaster (Mike McCready) / Gibson Les Paul (Stone Gossard) → Marshall JCM800 (McCready)
Classic rock-influenced overdrive through Marshall JCM800 with a bright, singing quality. McCready's solo tone has a Hendrix-like aggression and fluidity. The twin-guitar interplay creates a full, layered sound. Warmer and more classic-rock than typical grunge tones.
Typical Gear & Settings
Average Amp Settings
Amplifiers
- Marshall JCM800 (McCready)
Guitars
- Fender Telecaster (Mike McCready)
- Gibson Les Paul (Stone Gossard)
Pickups
- single coil (McCready)
- humbucker (Gossard)
Effects & Pedals
overdrive
Ibanez Tube Screamer / Boss OD-1
delay
MXR delay / Boss DD-3
Playing Style
Pearl Jam Song Tones
Get Pearl Jam's Tone on Your Gear
Adapt Pearl Jam's amp settings to your specific guitar, amp, and pedals.
Adapt to Your AmpFree — no account needed