Song Rig
And You and I
Steve Howe · Close to the Edge · 1972
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Acoustic 12-string opening gives way to electric Gibson — Howe's tonal range across one song demonstrates his versatility. The 12-string section is jangly and open, while the electric sections are warmer with natural tube saturation.
Signal Chain
- 1Gibson ES-175 or ES-345 (for electric sections)
- 2Acoustic 12-string (opening)
- 3Marshall or Hiwatt amplifier
Amp Settings
The electric tone sits at moderate gain — enough for sustain on the chord sections but clean enough for the picked single-note passages. The Hiwatt DR103 was Howe's main amp at this era.
Technique
How to Play It
Alternation between chord-melody acoustic playing and electric guitar orchestration — Howe treats the two guitars as two different instruments, not interchangeable.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Acoustic 12-string (Taylor 150e or Rickenbacker 360/12) for opening → Gibson ES-175 or Gretsch Electromatic → Hiwatt clone or Marshall at half volume.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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