Randy Rhoads - Guitar Setup & Tunings
Quick Facts
- Primary Tuning
- Standard
- String Gauge
- .009-.042 or .010-.046
- String Brand
- Various (no signature set - died before string endorsements were common)
- Genre
- Metal
About Randy Rhoads's Sound
Randall William Rhoads (1956-1982) merged classical music with heavy metal in ways that permanently changed guitar. Joining Ozzy Osbourne's solo band at 23, he recorded two landmark albums before dying in a plane crash at 25. Rhoads was classically trained and continued taking lessons throughout his career, incorporating baroque and classical concepts into metal. His harmonic approach, technical precision, and compositional sophistication elevated metal guitar beyond blues-based pentatonics. The brief glimpse of his potential makes his loss even more poignant. He influenced the neoclassical metal movement that followed.
Tunings Used
E Standard - 7 songs
- Crazy TrainTry this tuning →
- Mr. CrowleyTry this tuning →
- Flying High AgainTry this tuning →
- Over the MountainTry this tuning →
- Revelation (Mother Earth)Try this tuning →
- S.A.T.O.Try this tuning →
- Diary of a MadmanTry this tuning →
E Standard (Classical) - 1 song
String Setup
Primary Strings
Various (no signature set - died before string endorsements were common)
.009-.042 or .010-.046
Why Randy Rhoads uses these
Rhoads used standard E tuning exclusively - his heavy sound came from technique and amplification, not detuning. He played Jackson guitars (the Randy Rhoads model was one of the first signature guitars) through Marshall amplifiers. His string gauges were moderate (.009-.042 or .010-.046), prioritizing playability for his classical-influenced runs. Rhoads' precise technique required consistent string tension and action. His vibrato was wide and controlled, influenced by classical violin technique. The white Jackson V and offset V designs became iconic in metal. He practiced relentlessly, even during tours.