Jimmy Page - Guitar Setup & Tunings
Led Zeppelin
Quick Facts
- Primary Tuning
- Standard
- String Gauge
- .009-.042 (Electric), .010-.050 Extra Light (Acoustic)
- String Brand
- Ernie Ball Super Slinky (Electric), Ernie Ball Earthwood (Acoustic)
- Genre
- Classic Rock
About Jimmy Page's Sound
James Patrick Page (born 1944) is one of rock's most influential guitarists and producers. Before Led Zeppelin, he was one of London's most sought-after session guitarists, playing on recordings by The Who, The Kinks, and countless others. As Led Zeppelin's guitarist and producer, he pioneered multi-tracking, reverse echo, and created some of rock's most iconic riffs. Page was innovative in his use of alternate tunings, violin bows, and studio techniques. Led Zeppelin sold over 300 million albums, making them one of the best-selling bands ever.
Tunings Used
E Standard - 3 songs
- Stairway to HeavenTry this tuning →
- Black DogTry this tuning →
- Whole Lotta LoveTry this tuning →
DADGAD - 2 songs
- KashmirTry this tuning →
- White Summer/Black Mountain SideTry this tuning →
Gsus4 (DGCGCD) - 1 song
- The Rain Song
Open A - 1 song
- In My Time of DyingTry this tuning →
Drop D - 1 song
- Ten Years GoneTry this tuning →
Double Drop D (DADGBD) - 1 song
- Going to CaliforniaTry this tuning →
Open C6 (CACGCE) - 1 song
- Friends
String Setup
Primary Strings
Ernie Ball Super Slinky (Electric), Ernie Ball Earthwood (Acoustic)
.009-.042 (Electric), .010-.050 Extra Light (Acoustic)
Why Jimmy Page uses these
Page is famous for using extremely light gauge strings (.008 on his high E during the Zeppelin era), which enabled his signature wide bends and expressive vibrato. He pioneered the use of DADGAD tuning in rock music, borrowing from folk traditions. His use of a violin bow on the guitar became a trademark live effect. Page often tuned multiple guitars to different tunings for live shows to accommodate songs like Kashmir and The Rain Song without retuning between songs.