The Edge describes the adrenaline rush of playing live like getting on the back of a great motorcycle, opening up the throttle and tearing up the highway. And he’s not exaggerating when he says “great”, considering he’s known for using one of the biggest guitar rigs of all time that he lugs around on massive U2 world tours. His rig has, however, decreased noticeably in size in recent years primarily due to the addition of the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II.
It’s his unique tone and playing style that made a mark on music as a whole, and has left many people searching for the perfect “U2 sound”. He’s particularly known for combining effects (primarily delay) to create wide atmospheric sounds, typically ones that are not associated with the guitar. “It’s about how you draw from the past, how you apply things that have been seen and heard before, and finding a new way to present them. A way that is fresh”, says The Edge.
Despite his massive touring rig, The Edge attributes his success in songwriting to a single Fender Stratocaster and a 1950’s Fender Deluxe Tweed that he used at home. “I was late in discovering the virtues of the early Fender amps“, said the Edge, highlighting the fact that this equipment played a big role in his source of inspiration and ideas.
His recent collaboration with Fender has resulted in two signature product releases; The Edge Signature Fender Stratocaster and Deluxe Tweed amplifier (videos below). “What I’ve been able to do with this is really refine it and get it to a place where it’s even closer to that ideal sound I’m hearing in my head”.
When cutting the track for Vertigo, there was something missing. The Edge had to go back and fetch the vintage 1950’s Fender Tweed that he used at home. That amp had “the thing”. His signature amp is based on the 1950’s Deluxe Tweed circuitry, but with certain modifications.
“I know what I’m looking for when I pick up a Strat”. His signature model from Fender has replaced his vintage Stratocasters on U2 world tours.
