Song Rigs
Steve Vai — Gear by Song
How Steve Vai's rig changed track to track — specific amp settings, key gear, and what you need to replicate each tone.
For the Love of God
Passion and Warfare · 1990
Vai's most emotionally transcendent tone — Carvin Legacy into high gain, with the Ibanez JEM's tremolo arm used for sust…
Ibanez JEM 777 (neck pickup)Carvin Legacy amp (high gain)
See full rig →Tender Surrender
Alien Love Secrets · 1995
Vai's most intimate tone — a clean, warm platform with the JEM's neck pickup. The tone is pure and uncluttered, relying …
Ibanez JEM (neck pickup, volume at 7)Carvin Legacy amp (clean channel)
See full rig →The Audience Is Listening
Passion and Warfare · 1990
Vai's most aggressive shred tone on Passion and Warfare — full Carvin Legacy high gain with a tighter, more rhythmically…
Ibanez JEM 777 (bridge pickup, DiMarzio Evolution)Carvin Legacy amp (maximum gain)
See full rig →