Robin Trower — Rig Network

Trower's primary guitar — he has used multiple Stratocasters throughout his career but is most associated with 1960s sunburst models. The Stratocaster's single-coil brightness cuts through the Uni-Vibe modulation and Marshall compression without being harsh, providing the characteristic treble presence of his lead tone.

Unique to this artist in the database

Various custom-colour Stratocasters used across the 1970s recording and touring period — Trower has said he prefers older pickups for their output and tone character.

Unique to this artist in the database

The JMP's EL34 power section driven into natural saturation at high volume produces the compressed, sustaining quality of Trower's lead tone. Unlike Hendrix's more percussive attack, Trower's technique emphasises sustain and legato phrasing, which the driven JMP supports through its power-amp compression at high volume.

The Uni-Vibe is the defining element of Trower's tone — a four-stage photocell-based phaser that simulates the effect of a rotating Doppler speaker. The Uni-Vibe's modulation is more complex and less regular than modern chorus pedals, producing a swirling, underwater quality. Trower typically uses it at slower speeds for a subtle chorusing effect rather than dramatic vibrato.

Used occasionally for expressive lead passages — Trower's wah technique is similar to Hendrix's, used for vocal melody statements rather than rhythmic funk patterns.

Unique to this artist in the database