From Led Zeppelin’s second album onward, Jimmy Page primarily wielded a Gibson Les Paul Standard, famously acquired from Joe Walsh of the James Gang. This iconic guitar, combined with Marshall amplifiers, formed the cornerstone of Page’s electrifying tone — thick, crunchy, and full of sustain — that became a defining element of Led Zeppelin’s heavy sound. The Les Paul and Marshall pairing allowed him to move seamlessly between searing solos and thunderous riffs, shaping the sonic foundation of tracks like “Whole Lotta Love” and “Heartbreaker.”
However, Page’s studio setup was often far more diverse and nuanced than his live rig. For acoustic work, especially on Led Zeppelin III and IV, Page turned to the Harmony Sovereign H-1260, a relatively modest flattop acoustic guitar. Despite its humble origins, the Sovereign had a warm, rich tone that Page expertly used to layer textures on songs such as “That’s the Way,” “Gallows Pole,” and the immortal “Stairway to Heaven.” Its resonance and character made it an indispensable part of his recording arsenal, proving that tone is ultimately in the fingers — not just the gear.
In early live performances, Page continued to innovate. While the Les Paul remained his primary instrument on stage, he also employed a Fender Telecaster for select songs — notably “Stairway to Heaven,” in its earlier renditions — and used a double-neck Gibson EDS-1275 for live versions of tracks that featured both 6- and 12-string guitars. His live rigs were bolstered by wah pedals, the Echoplex delay unit, and other effects that enhanced his dynamic and expansive approach. Page’s blend of technical mastery, inventive gear choices, and production wizardry solidified his legacy as one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
Would you like a gear diagram or photo references for his setup?
