Eric Clapton, often referred to as “Slowhand,” is one of the most influential and celebrated guitarists in the history of rock and blues music. His signature guitar tone, characterized by its warmth, sustain, and expressive phrasing, has been a source of inspiration for countless musicians worldwide. A significant contributor to Clapton’s iconic sound has been his choice of amplifiers over the years. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the amplifiers Eric Clapton has used throughout his illustrious career.
1. Marshall JTM45
In the mid-1960s, Eric Clapton gained prominence as the lead guitarist for the British blues-rock band John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers. During this time, he famously used the Marshall JTM45 amplifier. This iconic amp is known for its rich, warm, and creamy overdrive tone, which became a defining element of Clapton’s sound. The combination of his Gibson Les Paul and the Marshall JTM45 is often referred to as the “Beano” tone, named after the album cover of John Mayall’s “Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton” on which Clapton used this setup.
2. Fender Twin Reverb
In the late 1960s, Clapton embarked on his journey with the blues-rock supergroup Cream, which featured legendary bassist Jack Bruce and drummer Ginger Baker. During this period, Clapton transitioned to using Fender Twin Reverb amplifiers. The Fender Twin Reverb is celebrated for its clean, shimmering tones and exceptional headroom. Clapton’s use of the Twin Reverb during the Cream era contributed to his reputation as a master of both clean and overdriven tones.
3. Marshall Bluesbreaker
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Clapton entered a period of experimentation and collaboration with various musicians. One of the significant amplifiers he used during this time was the Marshall Bluesbreaker combo. This amplifier was designed to recreate the classic “Beano” tone, and it became a favorite among Clapton enthusiasts. It delivered the iconic British blues-rock sound with a touch of vintage charm.
4. Fender Vibroverb
During his tenure with Derek and the Dominos and into the 1970s, Clapton began using the Fender Vibroverb amplifier. This amplifier is known for its lush reverb and distinctive vibrato effect, which added a unique dimension to Clapton’s guitar sound. The Vibroverb’s clean and responsive nature allowed Clapton to articulate his playing with precision.
5. Dumble Overdrive Special
In the 1970s and 1980s, Clapton turned to the renowned Dumble Overdrive Special amplifiers, handcrafted by Alexander “Howard” Dumble. These custom amplifiers were known for their exceptional clarity, touch sensitivity, and smooth overdrive tones. Clapton used Dumble amplifiers during his solo career, and they played a significant role in shaping his signature sound during this era.
6. Fender Tweed Deluxe
In more recent years, Eric Clapton has returned to his roots, favoring the Fender Tweed Deluxe amplifiers. These vintage-style amplifiers are prized for their warm, gritty tones and responsiveness to guitar dynamics. Clapton’s use of Tweed Deluxe amplifiers has been evident in his acoustic and bluesy performances.
Conclusion: A Lifelong Pursuit of Tone
Eric Clapton’s journey through amplifiers reflects his unending pursuit of the perfect tone. From the classic British overdrive of the Marshall JTM45 to the crystalline cleans of the Fender Twin Reverb and the boutique magic of Dumble amplifiers, Clapton has explored a diverse range of sonic possibilities. His ability to extract soulful and emotive tones from different amplifiers has made him a timeless icon in the world of guitarists. While the amplifiers he has used may vary, the one constant in Clapton’s career has been his dedication to crafting extraordinary music, driven by his unwavering passion for the guitar and the pursuit of sonic perfection.