SRV's Real Tubescreamer!

[VictorB]

“I use the Tube Screamer because of the tone knob. You can turn it on slightly to get a Guitar Slim tone”: The Tube Screamer that Stevie Ray Vaughan really used – and why it may not be the one you expect

The iconic Ibanez overdrive pedal SRV used to create his timeless tone – and the settings he used to do it

www.guitarworld.com

If you’ve looked around for info on the Tube Screamer model that Vaughan used, you’ll likely see the first iteration TS808 lauded as the ne plus ultra version for authentic SRV tone.

This is usually repeated ad infinitum by writers who haven’t done thorough research or, even worse, by pedal designers and vintage guitar dealers who are likely more concerned about profit than truth or historical accuracy.

Vaughan’s actual Tube Screamer of choice was the circa 1982-85 TS9 model. Vaughan consistently used a TS9 on stage and in the studio from mid-1982 through mid-1988 on the bulk of his peak career output.

The only exceptions are the In Step and Family Style albums and the studio version of Boot Hill on The Sky Is Crying where he used the TS10 Tube Screamers that replaced the TS9s in his rig.

Stevie Ray Vaughan Tube Screamer setting​

• Drive: 2-3
• Tone: 3-5
• Level: 9-10

This setting works well with pretty much any guitar and amp rig, but it sounds especially good with a Strat or Tele with a black-panel Fender Amp.

The TS9’s boosted low midrange and slightly rolled off bass gives single-coil pickups extra body, heft and definition that’s particularly ideal for solos that cut through the mix.