Tom Morello, the innovative guitarist known for his work with Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, and more, has carved out a unique and instantly recognizable sound. A crucial part of his sonic identity lies in his distinctive guitars and gear. If you’re looking to capture some of that revolutionary spirit, you might be wondering: where can you find a Tom Morello Guitar For Sale? While owning his exact custom instruments might be a dream for most, understanding his iconic guitars can guide you towards achieving a similar powerful sound.
Morello’s guitar journey is marked by a willingness to modify and personalize his instruments, turning them into extensions of his musical vision. Let’s delve into some of his most famous guitars and explore what options are available if you’re on the hunt for a “tom morello guitar for sale” or something that embodies his style.
One of the most iconic guitars associated with Tom Morello is undoubtedly his “Arm the Homeless” custom Performance guitar. This instrument was his main axe during his time with Rage Against the Machine and is instantly recognizable due to its unique modifications.
Tom Morello playing his Arm the Homeless guitar with Rage Against The Machine for sale
Image: Tom Morello unleashing powerful riffs on his “Arm the Homeless” custom guitar during a Rage Against The Machine concert, highlighting the energy and revolutionary spirit associated with this iconic instrument. Explore options to capture a similar sound when searching for a Tom Morello guitar for sale.
This guitar isn’t just visually striking with its custom paint job; it’s also functionally unique. The modifications, including a specific neck profile and the famous kill switch, contribute significantly to Morello’s signature stuttering and glitching effects. Finding the exact “Arm the Homeless” guitar for sale is impossible as it’s his personal instrument. However, the spirit of this guitar lives on. You might find Performance guitars on the used market, which are the base model he customized. Alternatively, many guitar builders offer custom modifications like kill switches, allowing you to personalize your own guitar in the “Arm the Homeless” style. When searching for a “tom morello guitar for sale” inspired by this model, consider looking for guitars with:
- Kill switches: Many guitars now come with or can be easily modified to include a kill switch.
- Humbucker pickups: To capture the powerful rock tones.
- Bolt-on neck guitars: For a similar feel and resonance.
Moving into his Audioslave era, Morello’s main guitar became the Fender FSR Stratocaster “Soul Power”. This guitar, originally a Factory Special Run for Guitar Center, became integral to his sound in Audioslave. The “Soul Power” Stratocaster showcases Morello’s versatility and his ability to adapt his sound while retaining his core style. While the exact FSR “Soul Power” Stratocaster might be harder to find specifically “for sale” with that exact model name, Fender Stratocasters are widely available, both new and used. To get closer to the “Soul Power” vibe when looking for a “tom morello guitar for sale”:
- Fender Stratocasters (HSS configuration): Look for Stratocasters with a humbucker in the bridge position, similar to the “Soul Power,” for added rock and metal tones.
- Used Fender Stratocasters: The used market is a great place to find various Stratocaster models at different price points.
Another key guitar in Morello’s arsenal is his 1982 Fender Telecaster “Sendero Luminoso”. This Telecaster is primarily used for drop-D tuning, a tuning frequently employed in both Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave songs. The Telecaster provides a different tonal palette compared to his Strat and Performance guitars, showcasing the breadth of Morello’s sound. Fender Telecasters are readily available across a wide range of prices and specifications. If you are seeking a “tom morello guitar for sale” to cover his drop-D tuned songs:
- Fender Telecasters (various models): Any Telecaster can be set up for drop-D tuning. Explore different pickup configurations (single-coil, humbucker, or combinations) to find your preferred tone.
- Consider modifications: Like Morello, don’t be afraid to personalize your Telecaster with different pickups or hardware to tailor it to your sound.
Beyond the guitars themselves, achieving the Tom Morello sound involves his effects and amplification. While searching for a “tom morello guitar for sale” is a starting point, remember that his effects pedals are equally important. He is famous for his creative use of:
- Digitech Whammy pedal: Essential for his pitch-shifting solos and unique sonic textures. Whammy pedals are widely available for sale.
- Dunlop Cry Baby Wah pedal: A classic effect used in expressive solos and funky rhythms. Wah pedals are also commonly found “for sale” at various music retailers.
- Boss DD-2 Digital Delay: For rhythmic delays and ambient textures. Many delay pedals can achieve similar effects and are available “for sale.”
For amplification, Morello has famously used the 50W Marshall JCM 800 2205 amplifier, often paired with a Peavey VTM 4×12 cabinet. While these specific models might be sought after by collectors, the essence of his amp sound can be found in:
- Marshall JCM 800 series amplifiers (or similar high-gain tube amps): These amps are known for their powerful rock tones. Both new and used Marshall amps, as well as other brands offering high-gain tube amps, are available for sale.
- 4×12 cabinets: For a full and powerful sound projection.
In conclusion, while finding the exact “tom morello guitar for sale” might lead you on a chase for rare custom instruments, understanding the core elements of his guitars and gear opens up many possibilities. You can find guitars inspired by his iconic models, readily available effects pedals, and amplifiers capable of delivering his powerful tone. The journey to finding your own sound, inspired by Tom Morello, is about exploring these tools and experimenting to create something uniquely yours. Start your search for a “tom morello guitar for sale” and begin crafting your revolutionary sound today!
