Mike Stern
Tones / Mike Stern / Cost of Living

Mike Stern — "Cost of Living" Tone

Edge-of-breakup approach: Strat with lighter gain, jazz-rock balanced between clean articulation and amp warmth. Gear guide to recreate the Mike Stern "Cost of Living" guitar tone at every budget.

About This Tone

From: Cost of Living

Edge-of-breakup approach: Strat with lighter gain, jazz-rock balanced between clean articulation and amp warmth.

Gear to Achieve This Tone

At £500, these are the key pieces that get you into Mike Stern’s cost of living territory:

  • Squier Classic Vibe 60s StratocasterGuitar
  • Ibanez TS9 Tube ScreamerOverdrive
  • Boss Katana 50 MkIIAmp
See full rig at every budget →