Sound Like Steve Howe
During a defining era for electric guitar, Steve Howe redefined what powerful and driving electric guitar could sound like — and their influence on progressive rock has never faded. Steve Howe of Yes is the most versatile player in progressive rock — moving between jazz archtop, acoustic steel-string, Spanish classical and electric guitar within a single concert, with mastery in each style. Whether you're starting out or ready to invest, the rig guides below cover every budget from £200 to £2,500.
Budget Comparison
Pick Your Budget Level
£2,500 · Premium
~£2496
- GuitarEpiphone ES-339
- AmpMarshall DSL100H
- DelayWalrus Audio Fundamental Delay
- ReverbStrymon Flint
Tone Profile
Steve Howe's Sound
Gibson ES-175 for jazz/fusion sections, Fender Telecaster for rock sections, acoustic guitar for classical/folk parts. The electric tone is a slightly pushed ES-175 through a clean amp — warm and chimey. Howe is a classical guitar-trained player and the classical discipline shows in his right-hand precision.
Tone Match
Closest Real-World Tone Match
If you like Steve Howe's tone, these players use a similar approach — same gear philosophy, comparable sound characteristics.