Peter Frampton primarily uses a 100-watt Marshall JMP from the 1970s as his main amplifier, a key component in shaping his iconic guitar sound. This particular JMP Marshall is known to have a custom modification, including an extra tube designed to provide additional overloading for a desirable distortion effect.
Peter Frampton's Core Amplifier: The Marshall JMP
The 100-watt Marshall JMP from the 1970s stands out as the cornerstone of Peter Frampton's rig. This amplifier model is renowned for its classic rock tone, offering rich harmonics and a powerful output that suits Frampton's dynamic playing style. The specific modification, which incorporates an extra tube, is crucial for achieving the "nice distortion" he's known for, allowing for an enhanced overdrive sound directly from the amp.
Why the Marshall JMP?
- Classic Tone: The JMP series is a highly sought-after vintage Marshall known for its organic, touch-sensitive response.
- Power and Headroom: At 100 watts, it provides ample power for live performances, ensuring his guitar cuts through the mix.
- Customization: Frampton's personal modification highlights his pursuit of a unique and expressive overdriven sound.
For more details on Peter Frampton's gear, including his amplifiers, you can explore resources like Equipboard.
Other Amplifiers in Peter Frampton's Rig
While the 1970s JMP Marshall is his primary choice, a guitarist of Frampton's stature often utilizes a variety of amplifiers for different applications—be it studio recording, live touring, or achieving specific tonal variations. Throughout his career, Marshall amplifiers have consistently been a dominant presence in his setup, often involving setups designed to interact with his famous talk box.
Peter Frampton's amplifier choices often reflect his preference for raw power and classic British rock tones. Here's a look at the types of amplifiers he's known to employ:
| Amplifier Type | Description | Primary Use/Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Marshall JMP 100w (1970s) | Main workhorse amp, often customized with an extra tube for enhanced distortion. | Core live and studio sound; source of his signature overdriven tones. |
| Marshall Super Lead (Plexi) | Earlier models, particularly the 1959 Super Lead, are foundational Marshall amps he may have used. | Classic rock tones, powerful clean and overdriven sounds. |
| Smaller Wattage Marshalls | Sometimes utilized for specific studio tracks or lower-volume settings to achieve power tube saturation more easily. | Studio recording, nuanced tones, earlier breakup at manageable volumes. |
| Talk Box Dedicated Amps | While the talk box itself is an effect, it's often driven by a dedicated amplifier or a specific channel of his main amp. | Creating the famous vocal-like guitar effects. |
The Role of Amplifiers in Frampton's Signature Sound
Peter Frampton's amplifiers are not just tools; they are integral to his musical identity. His renowned talk box effect, for instance, requires an amplifier to project the sound into the device, making the amp's characteristics—especially its ability to push volume and maintain clarity under heavy signal processing—paramount. The sustain and rich harmonic content characteristic of Marshall amplifiers perfectly complement his expressive phrasing and iconic "talking guitar" sound.
His preference for Marshall amps, particularly the modified JMP, underscores his commitment to achieving a powerful, articulate, and harmonically rich guitar tone that has captivated audiences for decades.
