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John Mayer, a name synonymous with soulful guitar playing and exceptional songwriting, is an inspiration for countless aspiring musicians worldwide.
However, the secret to his success doesn’t lie in his talent alone. This blues-rock-pop legend boasts an impressive array of guitars and gear that have shaped his signature sound over the years.
In this article, we’ll delve into the history and characteristics of John Mayer’s guitars and gear, from his signature axes down to the accessories and effects that complete his sonic palette.
To help you recreate his setup and achieve the same iconic tone, we’ve recommended various guitars, amps, and accessories throughout the article. Our ultimate setup would include a PRS SE Silver Sky with Ernie Ball 2218 John Mayer Silver Slinky strings, a Boss BD-2 Blues Driver, an Eventide TimeFactor, and a Fender 65 Deluxe Reverb – these are the essentials you need for that John Mayer tone!
In a hurry?
Here’s a handy table breaking down some of John Mayer’s most notable gear:
| Gear Type | Item |
|---|---|
| Electric guitar | Fender John Mayer Stratocaster |
| PRS Silver Sky | |
| 1961 Gibson Les Paul/SG | |
| Gibson Les Paul Junior Double-Cutaway | |
| 2004 Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan “Number One” Strat | |
| PRS Super Eagle | |
| Acoustic guitar | Martin OMJM |
| Martin DM3MD | |
| Martin 000-14 | |
| Martin OM28-V | |
| Amplifier | Dumble Steel String Singer |
| Two-Rock Custom Reverb | |
| Fender Twin Deluxe Reverb | |
| Effects pedal | Boss BD-2 Blues Driver (Keeley Mod) |
| Klon Centaur | |
| Eventide TimeFactor Twin Delay | |
| MXR Phase 90 | |
| Guitar strings | Ernie Ball Earthwood Medium Light Strings |
| Guitar picks | 0.75mm rainbow celluloid picks |
John Mayer’s signature guitars
John Mayer’s admiration for legendary players like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix led him to develop a deep connection with Fender guitars, particularly the Stratocaster.
As his career progressed, Mayer collaborated with Fender to create the John Mayer Signature Stratocaster, an instrument tailored to his specific playing style and tonal preferences.
Later, he turned towards Paul Reed Smith, resulting in the birth of yet another signature model, the PRS Silver Sky. These two guitars have become staples in John Mayer’s gear arsenal and have undeniably influenced his mesmerising sound.
Both the Fender John Mayer Stratocaster and the PRS Silver Sky reflect Mayer’s passion for blending vintage aesthetics with modern functionality.
Let’s delve deeper into these two jaw-dropping guitars to understand what makes them so special.
Fender John Mayer Stratocaster
The Fender John Mayer Stratocaster was born out of Mayer’s desire to be involved in the production process, leading him to the Fender Custom Shop to search for a unique sound.
Experimenting with various amplifiers, he eventually found his match in the Two-Rock Custom Reverb Amp, setting the stage for the development of his signature Fender Stratocaster. Released in 2005, this guitar quickly became Mayer’s go-to instrument until 2014.
This guitar was released in both Sunburst and Olympic White finishes and came equipped with custom “Big Dipper” pickups. This offered a distinct tonal characteristic that set it apart from other Stratocasters.
Its design was inspired by the Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute signature model, further solidifying the connection between Mayer and his musical heroes.
Over the years, Mayer made various modifications to his signature Strat, including replacing the neck and experimenting with different pickup configurations.
Despite these changes, the core essence of the Fender John Mayer Stratocaster remains intact, capturing the spirit of Mayer’s playing and continuing to inspire guitarists all around the world.
While this guitar is no longer in production, the Fender American Pro II Stratocaster offers a very similar look and feel.
PRS Silver Sky
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In 2018, John Mayer introduced the PRS Silver Sky, a guitar that combines the vintage charm of 1960s guitars with modern enhancements. Often regarded as a contemporary take on the classic Stratocaster design, the Silver Sky was referred to as the guitar industry’s “worst kept secret” in the two-year run-up to its release.
The Silver Sky features an inverted headstock design and is equipped with PRS’ custom 635JM single-coil pickups, providing a fresh take on the classic single-coil sound.
The longer scale length and sophisticated electronics offer a wide range of tonal options, while the fretboard – available in either rosewood or maple – is subtly modified in the shoulders to offer a more “rounded” feel.
In addition to the Silver Sky, Mayer has also collaborated with PRS on the development of the Super Eagle, a guitar model specifically designed for his touring with the band Dead and Company.
This special model showcases his dedication to exploring new sonic territories and pushing the boundaries of guitar design.
Vintage guitars in Mayer’s collection
As a true connoisseur of the rock and blues world, Mayer has amassed an impressive arsenal of vintage Fender Stratocasters and Gibson models, each with its own unique history and characteristics.
These vintage guitars not only serve as a testament to Mayer’s passion for the instrument but have also played a significant role in influencing his playing style and tone over the years.
Let’s examine some of the most notable models in his collection and delve into the history of these iconic instruments.
1960s Fender Stratocasters
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Among the many vintage Fender Stratocasters in Mayer’s collection, his early 1964 sunburst Stratocaster holds a special place in his heart. This particular guitar quickly became his favourite to use, and it’s one he still uses to this day.
Mayer also owns a white 1961 hardtail bridge Stratocaster, which serves as another testament to his love for vintage Fender instruments.
His collection also includes the 2004 Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan “Number One” Strat, a faithful reproduction of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s iconic guitar crafted by Fender’s John Cruz. This model has a worn-out or relic finish while boasting an improved wiring and pickup setup compared to the standard signature model.
Through his collection of 1960s Fender Stratocasters, John Mayer pays homage to the legendary guitarists who inspired him, while also drawing from their influences to create his own distinct sound.
Gibson models
John Mayer’s admiration for classic guitar design extends beyond Fender, as evidenced by his collection of Gibson models. Among these, the Les Paul Junior Double-Cutaway and the 1961 Gibson Les Paul/SG stand out as prime examples of his appreciation for the iconic designs of the Gibson brand.
The Les Paul Junior Double-Cutaway features a cherry red finish and a single P90 pickup in the bridge position – a testament to simplicity and raw power.
On the other hand, the 1961 Gibson Les Paul/SG boasts a cherry red finish, a Sideways Vibrola tremolo bridge, two stock Gibson humbuckers, and dedicated volume and tone pots for each pickup. These guitars offer a different flavour from Mayer’s Fender collection, showcasing his versatility as a guitarist and his dedication to exploring various sonic possibilities.
The presence of these Gibson models in Mayer’s collection not only highlights his appreciation for the brand’s craftsmanship but also demonstrates his ability to adapt his playing styles to different instruments, further solidifying his status as a versatile musician.
Acoustic guitars and beyond
John Mayer’s electric guitar collection often steals the spotlight, but it’s equally important to acknowledge the extensive array of acoustic guitars and other stringed instruments he uses to produce his signature sound.
From intimate acoustic performances to full-blown rock shows, Mayer’s versatility as a musician shines through in his diverse collection of acoustic guitars:
Martin acoustic guitars
Mayer’s affiliation with Martin Guitars is well-known, as he frequently uses these high-quality acoustic instruments for live performances and recordings. Some of the Martin models he has employed include:
- OMJM: John Mayer’s main signature model, designed to meet his specific preferences for both recording and live performances
- DM3MD: Known for its versatility, rich tonal qualities, and playability
- 000-14: Known for its balanced tone and comfortable size, making it a great choice for Mayer’s live performances
- OM28-V: Known for its vintage-inspired tones and excellent projection
- OM-42: Known for its elegant design and warm, full-bodied tone
- HD-35: Known for its deep, resonant bass and clear treble
- 000-ECHF: Known for its bright and responsive sound, making it a particularly good choice for fingerstyle playing
- 00-45SC: Known for its small-bodied size and balanced tone
- D-45JM: Known for its intricate inlay work and thick, midrange tone
John Mayer’s enduring association with Martin reflects their superior quality and craftsmanship, serving as the backbone of his soulful melodies and distinctive, warm tone.
If you’re looking to replicate John Mayer’s signature acoustic sound, you can’t go wrong with his signature OMJM model. In 2023, he released a 20th-anniversary version of this guitar, available in a stunning grey sunburst finish.
Guild Starfire IV ST
Another notable guitar in Mayer’s collection is the Guild Starfire IV ST, a semi-hollow guitar that he has used for various performances and recordings, notably on his 2008 live album Where The Light Is.
Equipped with a semi-hollow body design, a mahogany neck, a rosewood fingerboard, dual Guild LB-1 ‘Little Bucker’ pickups, and a Tune-O-Matic bridge, the Guild Starfire IV ST is renowned for its warm, full-bodied sound with a well-balanced blend of highs and lows.
This versatility allows Mayer to explore a range of tones, from bright and twangy to dark and mellow, further expanding his sonic capabilities.
Amplifiers and effects
Behind every great guitarist is a carefully chosen selection of amplifiers and effects, and John Mayer is no exception.
His signature tone is shaped by an array of amplifiers and effects pedals that have become essential components of his live performances and studio recordings.
From the warm, clean tones of Dumble and Two-Rock amps to the versatile range of his pedalboard, Mayer’s sound is a product of years of experimentation and fine-tuning.
Next up, we’ll dive into Mayer’s selection of amplifiers and effects to better understand the equipment he relies on to create his distinctive sound and style.
Dumble and Two-Rock amps
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The Dumble Steel String Singer is renowned for its exceptionally clean sound, yet with a tendency to break up when pushed with a high-output audio signal.
On the other hand, the Two-Rock Custom Reverb is a 50-watt amplifier head featuring two channels – clean and lead – as well as several tone-shaping controls.
Mayer’s choice of Dumble and Two-Rock amplifiers illustrates his pursuit of the ideal guitar tone, and his ongoing use of these amps underscores their quality and adaptability.
Fender Twin Deluxe Reverb
Another amp that John Mayer is famous for using is the Fender Twin Deluxe Reverb. This amp is renowned for its lush and spacious clean tones, making it an ideal canvas for Mayer’s expressive playing style.
His main Fender Twin model was custom-built by Chris Flemming from the Fender Custom Shop, and Alexander “Howard” Dumble from Dumble Amplifiers. This collaborative effort resulted in a one-of-a-kind amplifier that blends the best of Fender’s craftsmanship with Dumble’s legendary expertise.
Pedalboard essentials
John Mayer’s pedalboard is a carefully curated collection of effects that play a pivotal role in shaping his distinctive guitar sound. Here’s a closer look at the essential pedals in his setup:
Overdrive pedals:
Boss BD-2 Blues Driver: Mayer uses the Boss BD-2 Blues Driver with a Keeley mod. This modification enhances the pedal’s internal components and introduces a “phat” switch for adjusting the low-end frequencies. It adds a touch of grit and warmth to his tone.- Klon Centaur: The Klon Centaur is a legendary overdrive pedal celebrated for its transparent and dynamic response. Mayer incorporates this pedal into his setup for its ability to add harmonic richness without colouring the core tone of his guitar. If you’re looking to replicate the rip-roaring sound of the Klon Centaur on a budget, the Wampler Tumnus Deluxe Overdrive serves as a fantastic option.
- Ibanez Tube Screamer: An iconic choice among guitarists worldwide, Mayer also incorporates the Ibanez Tube Screamer into his setup. This pedal, known for its midrange boost and creamy overdrive, is an essential ingredient in achieving Mayer’s expressive and bluesy tones. The Tube Screamer complements his playing style, delivering that sweet, smooth overdrive that cuts through the mix.
- JHS Bonsai 9-Way Overdrive: Mayer adds the JHS Bonsai 9-Way Overdrive to his arsenal, offering a versatile range of classic tube screamer sounds in a single pedal. This pedal allows him to access various Tube Screamer-inspired tones, further expanding his tonal palette for different songs and musical contexts.
Delay pedals:
- Eventide TimeFactor Twin Delay: Known for its versatility, this pedal offers a wide range of delay effects and allows Mayer to experiment with various time-based sounds. He typically includes two TimeFactor units in his signal chain.
- Way Huge Aqua-Puss: The Way Huge Aqua-Puss is another delay pedal in Mayer’s arsenal. While not as commonly featured as the Eventide TimeFactor, it’s a warm and full-bodied analog delay that offers Mayer extra versatility.
Modulation pedals:
- Electro-Harmonix Q-Tron: The Q-Tron is an envelope filter pedal, giving Mayer the ability to create expressive and funky filter-swept sounds.
- MXR Phase 90: The MXR Phase 90 produces classic phase-shifting effects, adding a swirling and psychedelic dimension to his guitar sound. This pedal is known for its simplicity and ability to create lush, swirling textures.
- Real McCoy RMC8: The Real McCoy RMC8 is a high-quality wah pedal that adds a vocal-like quality to Mayer’s solos and rhythm work, allowing for expressive tonal variations.
- Strymon Flint V2: The Strymon Flint V2 combines two essential effects in one unit, offering lush tremolo and reverb. The tremolo side of the pedal allows Mayer to infuse his playing with pronounced swells, while the reverb side recreates the warm, spring reverb tones reminiscent of vintage amplifiers.
Mayer’s pedalboard isn’t just a collection of gear; it’s a testament to his commitment to detail and tonal excellence. His ability to seamlessly integrate these pedals into his playing showcases his skill as a guitarist and a tone-shaper.
Strings
John Mayer’s guitar tone and playing style are a result of a carefully chosen combination of strings, picks, and playing techniques. These elements contribute significantly to his distinctive sound and musical identity.
String choice
John Mayer’s string preferences are tailored to each guitar type. For his electric guitars, he opts for Ernie Ball Regular Slinky and Power Slinky strings. These choices are integral to shaping his electric guitar sound, offering the right balance of tension and tone for his playing style.
If you want to achieve John Mayer’s tone down to the very last detail, there’s no better set of strings than those co-designed by the man himself. The Ernie Ball 2218 John Mayer Silver Slinky Nickel Strings have a unique combination of gauges (10.5-47) for balanced tone and tension, custom core-to-wrap ratios to make string bends easier and sustain smoother, and a reinforced design for extra durability.
However, when it comes to his acoustic guitars, Mayer switches to Ernie Ball Earthwood Medium Light Strings. These strings deliver a bright and articulate tone that enhances the clarity of his fingerpicking and strumming techniques.
Picks
John Mayer opts for 0.75mm rainbow celluloid picks by PickBoy. These picks provide the right blend of rigidity and flexibility, allowing Mayer to exercise complete control over his playing dynamics while preserving his guitar’s tone.
While it seems like a small detail, this pick choice is integral to achieving Mayer’s signature sound, whether he’s weaving intricate melodies or strumming powerful chord progressions. It exemplifies his dedication to crafting a unique sonic identity, note by note.
Playing techniques
John Mayer’s guitar prowess is a testament to his dedication and innovative approach, cultivated under the mentorship of renowned instructor Tomo Fujita. Mayer’s technique is a fusion of fingerpicking and flatpicking styles, which he expertly intertwines to craft his distinctive sound.
- Fingerpicking: Mayer’s fingerpicking is a hallmark of his playing style. He uses his fingers to pluck individual strings, allowing for intricate and nuanced articulation. This technique enables him to create delicate, melodic passages with precision, infusing his music with a sense of intimacy and emotion. It’s a skill that shines in his acoustic performances, bringing out the full richness of his Martin guitars.
- Flatpicking: In contrast, Mayer’s flatpicking technique employs a guitar pick, offering power and clarity when he needs to drive his music forward. This approach is particularly evident in his electric guitar work, where he can deliver forceful and resonant chord progressions and dynamic solos. His use of flatpicking showcases his versatility and ability to navigate between various genres, from blues and rock to pop.
Mayer’s mastery of both techniques is at the core of his musical identity, adding depth and dimension to his performances. It allows him to seamlessly transition from delicate, intricate melodies to powerful, emotionally charged moments, captivating audiences with his dynamic and engaging guitar playing.
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of guitar does John Mayer play?
John Mayer is well-known for playing Fender Stratocaster and PRS Silver Sky guitars. These iconic instruments contribute to his signature tone, characterised by their single-coil pickups and versatile sound. Mayer is also known for playing Martin acoustic guitars.
What strings does John Mayer use?
John Mayer favours Ernie Ball Earthwood strings with an 80/20 Phosphor Bronze mix for his acoustic guitars. This choice enhances the tonal balance, providing a bright, articulate sound suitable for his intricate fingerpicking and strumming techniques.
What amp does John Mayer use?
John Mayer often uses Two-Rock amplifiers, notably the Two-Rock John Mayer Signature model. These amplifiers are renowned for their pristine clean tones and versatility, allowing Mayer to craft his unique blend of blues, rock, and pop with precision and clarity.
Summary
Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the various aspects of John Mayer’s guitars and gear, offering a glimpse into the instruments, amplifiers, and effects that have shaped his signature sound.
From his iconic signature guitars to his meticulously crafted pedalboard, Mayer’s dedication to his craft and passion is undeniable.
Inspired by his gear and his journey, we hope we’ve helped you find the perfect tools to express your unique voice!
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