Sound Like Steve Vai
Steve Vai is one of the most recognisable voices in rock — a powerful and driving player who shaped the sound of a defining era for electric guitar. Steve Vai is the most technically ambitious guitarist alive — composing, arranging and executing music that pushes the limits of the instrument in every dimension. His Ibanez JEM, with its monkey grip cutaway and floral inlays, is instantly recognisable, as is his ability to make extreme technique sound lyrical and emotional. Below are complete rig guides at four budget levels, so you can start building their sound whether you're just starting out or ready to invest in the full setup.
Budget Comparison
Pick Your Budget Level
£200 · Beginner
~£178
- OverdriveJoyo Vintage Overdrive
- AmpBoss Katana 50 MkII
£1,000 · Pro-Level
~£996
- GuitarJackson JS22 DKA Dinky
- WahWilson Effects MkII Wah
- AmpBoss Katana 100 MkII
- DelayMXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay
£2,500 · Premium
~£2475
- GuitarIbanez RG550 Genesis Collection
- WahWilson Effects MkII Wah
- ModulationWalrus Audio Julia
- AmpMarshall DSL40CR
- DelayStrymon El Capistan
Tone Profile
Steve Vai's Sound
Ibanez JEM (DiMarzio Evolution pickups, floating Edge tremolo) into a Carvin Legacy VL100 or Marshall. Very high gain, smooth and compressed on leads with enormous sustain. DigiTech Whammy and Roland VG-8 for pitch effects; the floating trem is used for dramatic whammy bar work and subtle vibrato simultaneously.
Tone Match
Closest Real-World Tone Match
If you like Steve Vai's tone, these players use a similar approach — same gear philosophy, comparable sound characteristics.