[Kaela Kimura] How to Recreate the Kaela Kimura Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

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Introduction (Overview of Tone)

Kaela Kimura captivates a wide audience with her unique pop sensibility and rock-infused sound as a singer-songwriter. Her iconic songs, such as “Butterfly” and “Ring a Ding Dong,” feature impressive guitar sounds that complement catchy melodies. In live performances, she often takes up the guitar, contributing significantly to the band’s sound.

Her guitar playing is characterized by a “simple and clear tone” that enhances the world of her songs and vocals rather than showcasing technical prowess. Based on cover videos uploaded to YouTube and behind-the-scenes photos, she frequently uses Stratocaster-style electric guitars and acoustic-electric guitars. There are also reports of her using the Orange Crush series amplifiers, with effects from well-known brands like BOSS and MXR confirmed.

While the gear information listed in YouTube cover videos may not be definitively confirmed as her personal equipment, it serves as a valuable reference for achieving a sound close to hers. For instance, the BOSS ST-2 provides a driving feel, while the MXR Carbon Copy offers analog delay, allowing for a versatile tone suitable for both pop and rock.

Kaela Kimura’s sound design approach is characterized by a blend of “simplicity” and “clarity,” making it a noteworthy example of integrating rock essence into the pop scene.

In the following sections, we will explore the amplifiers, guitars, and effects she uses, along with specific tips for sound creation.

▶ Search official YouTube videos of Kaela Kimura

List of Amplifiers and Features

One confirmed amplifier used by Kaela Kimura is the Orange Crush-20 LTD 50th Anniversary Model. This 20W solid-state amplifier is noted in the description of her YouTube cover videos. It provides the characteristic midrange push and light crunch associated with Orange amplifiers, making it suitable for home practice and small live performances, particularly for pop and light rock.

Although the Crush-20 is not a tube amplifier, it effectively recreates the unique distortion character of Orange. Its simple control layout allows for sufficient sound shaping to achieve the “crisp clean tone” and “moderate drive” required for her music. When paired with brighter guitars (like Stratocasters or Fender models), it ensures a sound that cuts through the band mix effectively.

While no official evidence has been found, it is assumed that she may also use a Marshall JMP-1 (preamp) + Marshall EL34 100/100 (power amp) as part of her setup. These are standard in rack systems and have been utilized by many Japanese artists since the 90s. If she wishes to add more versatility to her distortion in studio or recording settings, these could be viable options.

The JMP-1 is known for its diverse sound shaping capabilities, providing a thickness that simple combo amps cannot achieve. As her live performances scale up, the inclusion of rack systems or Marshall amplifiers may also be a possibility. However, without photographic or video evidence, this remains speculative. Nonetheless, the sound direction aligns well with her musical style.

In summary, it can be inferred that the Orange Crush-20 is suitable for small environments, while the Marshall rack system may be employed for larger, more versatile soundscapes. The former is confirmed, while the latter serves as a reference for understanding her sound design.

Types of Guitars Used and Features

Kaela Kimura’s guitar choices can be confirmed through official information, live photos, and descriptions in YouTube cover videos. Notably, she is associated with the Fender STR-VC model. While the exact model number is unverified, it is mentioned in the description of a YouTube cover, suggesting she may have used it. This guitar, resembling a Stratocaster shape, is versatile enough to handle a range from clean to distorted tones, making it a great fit for her pop and rock-infused songs.

Additionally, backstage and live-related photos show her using an acoustic-electric guitar. While the specific model remains unidentified, it is essential for acoustic songs and unplugged performances. Its simple and warm tone enhances her vocal quality.

Moreover, photos taken during a formal event show her holding a black Strat-style electric guitar. While this may have been for show, it indicates her preference for Stratocaster-style guitars. Fender guitars are popular among Japanese pop-rock singer-songwriters, making them a natural fit for her musical style.

Currently, the only confirmed guitars are the Strat-style and acoustic-electric models. The emphasis on Fender suggests her sound is rooted in clean and clear fundamental tones. While the gear listed in cover videos may not be her personal property, it remains a valuable reference for sound creation.

In summary, Kaela Kimura’s guitar selection is likely based on models that can deliver “bright cleans suitable for pop” and “light distortion for rock elements.” The confirmed use of the acoustic-electric and Strat-style guitars, along with the mention of the Fender STR-VC, provides high reference value. Ultimately, her approach centers around “simple and easy-to-handle guitars that support her pop vocals.”

Effects and Pedalboard Setup

Kaela Kimura’s effects are primarily noted in the descriptions of her YouTube cover videos. The most prominent effects include the BOSS ST-2 (TURBO Overdrive) and MXR M169 Carbon Copy (Analog Delay). Both are standard compact effects that cover essential “distortion” and “spatial” elements needed for pop-rock songs.

The BOSS ST-2 can create a sound that sits between overdrive and distortion, offering a broad tonal range. This is particularly suitable for Kaela’s music, which requires a “lively yet rock-like presence.” It allows for a light drive sound that complements the clean tones of Strat-style guitars without overwhelming her pop songs.

On the other hand, the MXR M169 Carbon Copy is a classic analog delay known for its warm repeats. Compared to digital delays, it integrates naturally into the sound, ensuring that the guitar does not overshadow the vocals in songs where the latter is the focal point. This effect is especially effective in ballads or acoustic-influenced tracks.

With just these two effects, one can achieve a “pop-rock guitar tone.” Additionally, it is assumed that a reverb pedal (such as the BOSS RV series or Electro-Harmonix HOLY GRAIL) might be included. During live performances, adjusting reverb with an external pedal is a common approach due to the venue’s natural reverb effects.

While the only confirmed effects are the two mentioned above, the pedalboard setup likely follows a simple flow: “ST-2 → Carbon Copy → Reverb (assumed).” This allows for crunch and light distortion from the ST-2, spatial effects from the Carbon Copy, and reverb adjustments as needed.

In essence, Kaela Kimura’s effect settings emphasize “simplicity while aligning with pop sounds,” avoiding overly complex effect chains and opting for a minimal yet effective setup.

Tone Settings, EQ, and Mixing Approaches

The most significant feature of Kaela Kimura’s sound design is the “guitar sound that does not interfere with pop vocals.” The guitar maintains a perfect balance, neither overpowering nor getting buried, which suggests that her EQ and effect settings are simple yet practical.

Starting with amplifier settings, based on the Orange Crush-20 mentioned in her YouTube covers, it is assumed that the settings would be: Gain around noon for a light touch, Treble slightly boosted, Middle not overly suppressed, and Bass kept around noon. This configuration allows for crisp clean tones and light crunch, accommodating a wide range from pop riffs to rock backing.

In terms of effects, the BOSS ST-2 is used to add a light overdrive, providing a presence that does not clash with her vocal quality. While increasing the gain on the ST-2 can lead to a more distorted sound, Kaela’s music likely maintains a “lively drive.” The Drive knob should be set around 10-11 o’clock, with Level slightly raised and Tone adjusted around noon for optimal results.

For spatial effects, the MXR M169 Carbon Copy plays a crucial role. A shorter delay time (around 300ms), with 2-3 repeats and a modest mix setting, creates depth while enhancing the vocal presence. This adds thickness and resonance to both clean tones and ballads. Adding a touch of reverb as needed can further expand the stage sound.

From a mixing perspective, Kaela’s songs often position the guitar as a “clean Strat-style sound that spreads across the stereo field.” During recording, boosting the EQ around 2kHz to 4kHz enhances the attack while slightly cutting the low end below 200Hz, ensuring the guitar remains prominent in the overall band mix. Similar adjustments are essential in live PA settings, where midrange character is preserved while controlling the low end.

Moreover, it is likely that effects are switched according to the song’s progression. For instance, in ballad-like tracks, a clean tone with Carbon Copy is prioritized, while more rock-oriented songs may incorporate light distortion from the ST-2. This simple yet optimized approach to sound design supports Kaela Kimura’s stage sound.

Overall, Kaela Kimura’s sound design is characterized by “EQ settings that avoid overlapping with vocals, moderate distortion, and natural spatial effects.” While technically straightforward, her approach embodies the essence of her guitar sound, which aligns closely with her music.

Affordable Alternatives to Recreate the Tone

To fully replicate Kaela Kimura’s sound, one would typically need a Fender Strat-style guitar, an Orange amplifier, and standard effects like MXR. However, for beginners or those looking to learn sound design, the cost and availability of such gear can be challenging. Fortunately, it is possible to recreate a “Kaela Kimura-style sound” using relatively affordable and readily available equipment.

For guitars, while authentic Fender models can be pricey, the Squier by Fender Stratocaster serves as an excellent alternative. It retains the bright and clear tones characteristic of Strat-style guitars while being budget-friendly and user-friendly for beginners. Its versatility makes it suitable for both pop and rock, aligning well with Kaela Kimura’s sound design.

As for amplifiers, while the Orange Crush-20 is relatively affordable, if it proves difficult to obtain, smaller amps like the BOSS Katana Mini or Roland CUBE-10GX are recommended. These amps can handle a wide range from clean to light distortion, and their effective EQ settings make it easy to achieve a “pop and crisp tone.”

For effects, while the BOSS ST-2 and MXR Carbon Copy are professional-grade, alternatives like the BOSS SD-1 Super OverDrive and NUX Analog Delay offer excellent cost-performance. The SD-1 excels at producing a lively overdrive, closely resembling the “clarity of distortion” found in the ST-2. The NUX analog delay provides warm repeats, similar to the Carbon Copy, making it a recommended choice.

Additionally, incorporating multi-effects units can be effective. The Zoom G1X FOUR and BOSS GT-1 are user-friendly for beginners and can reproduce sounds akin to the ST-2 and Carbon Copy through presets, making them ideal for those looking to consolidate their “Kaela-style sound” into one unit. This is particularly beneficial for live or studio settings where simplicity is key.

In summary, even beginners can achieve a tone reminiscent of Kaela Kimura’s pop-rock sound by utilizing entry-level Strat-style guitars, lightweight amplifiers, and cost-effective overdrive and delay effects. The focus should not be on acquiring expensive gear but rather on aiming for a “simple and clear sound.”

Summary and Conclusion

In summary, Kaela Kimura’s sound design is rooted in “simple and bright tones” and “backing that enhances the songs.” Her guitar playing is not technical but rather leverages simplicity, with clear tones from Strat-style and acoustic-electric guitars. This choice supports her pop and catchy vocals without overshadowing them, reflecting a sound design focused on overall balance.

Confirmed gear includes user-friendly amplifiers like the Orange Crush-20 LTD and standard compact effects like the BOSS ST-2 and MXR Carbon Copy. These are widely used by both beginners and professionals, demonstrating that “one can achieve a sound similar to Kaela Kimura’s without needing particularly expensive gear.” Additionally, incorporating reverb or light EQ adjustments can provide the necessary space and attack for each song.

Furthermore, the key to sound design lies not merely in gathering equipment but in being mindful of “separating the voice.” By emphasizing mid to high frequencies in the EQ and reducing low frequencies, one can secure a tone that stands out in the band mix. Moreover, keeping distortion moderate and allowing delay to integrate naturally ensures that the guitar resonates comfortably in vocal-centric songs.

Even beginners can achieve a sound reminiscent of Kaela Kimura’s by utilizing entry-level Strat-style guitars, compact amplifiers, and cost-effective effects from BOSS or Zoom. The focus should be on achieving a “simple and clear sound.” By doing so, one can capture the essence of her pop sound while incorporating a rock edge.

Ultimately, Kaela Kimura’s sound design serves as a bridge between pop and rock, with gear selection and settings merely being tools to achieve that goal. This approach should inspire readers to think about their own sound design in a simpler way.