Renowned guitarist Joe Satriani has unveiled details regarding his modifications to Eddie Van Halen's iconic Frankenstein guitar in preparation for his upcoming Best Of All Worlds Tour. In a recent interview with Guitarist, Satriani revealed that he found the instrument largely unplayable at first, prompting him to make significant alterations to optimize its performance.
To achieve the quintessential Van Halen sound, Satriani acknowledged the shortcomings of his original gear setup. Consequently, he collaborated with 3rd Power to develop a new tube amplifier designed to emulate the tone of Van Halen's famed Marshall equipment. Additionally, Satriani made custom changes to several EVH Frankie guitars, incorporating features such as speed knobs and Sustainer pickups, which enhance their usability in live settings.
Guided by insights from Van Halen's former guitar technicians, Satriani focused on releasing the full potential of the Frankenstein guitar. He noted that his modifications were centered around creating an instrument capable of delivering not only Van Halen's timeless tracks but also his own original compositions and covers. This direction underscores his emphasis on practicality during live performances.
After finalizing these tweaks, Satriani claimed he was able to replicate Van Halen's distinctive sound on tour. Lightheartedly, he expressed concern that Eddie Van Halen might metaphorically "haunt" him for making changes to such a cherished instrument, given the passionate following of the late guitarist. Nevertheless, Satriani's performances have received accolades for paying tribute to Van Halen's legacy while showcasing his individual style. Fans interested in the full interview can check out the latest edition of Guitarist for more insights.
For further information on Satriani's tour and guitar modifications, visit Guitar World.