[Kazuki Washiyama] How to Recreate the Suspended 4th Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

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Introduction (Overview of Tone)

Kazuki Washiyama, the guitarist of Suspended 4th, has garnered attention for his unique sound that boldly incorporates elements of modern jazz and fusion while blending in textures from blues and alternative music. His approach to sound design is particularly evident in the track “Travel The Galaxy,” where he creates a vintage feel enriched with contemporary effects, adding depth to his music.

A significant aspect of his sound is his use of a vintage Fender Stratocaster alongside effects pedals from domestic builders like Zahnrad and Nature Sound. He meticulously selects individual pieces, such as a vintage VOX Wah and a carefully chosen BOSS BD-2, allowing him to navigate effortlessly from soft cleans to aggressive fuzz tones, supporting the dynamic ensemble of Suspended 4th.

Washiyama’s playing style transcends mere chord work or solo play; he constructs layers of sound that include effects. By utilizing unique pedals like the Gamechanger Audio Plasma Coil and Light Pedal, he creates ethereal soundscapes that vividly portray the world of Suspended 4th.

Moreover, he demonstrates flexibility by using different pedalboards for live performances and recordings, often focusing on spatial effects from brands like Strymon for his portable sub-board. This adaptability allows him to achieve optimal sound design tailored to various venues and environments.

Consequently, Kazuki Washiyama’s guitar sound is characterized by the fusion of vintage and modern elements, the contrast between fuzz and clean tones, and the dynamic tonal variations achieved through his pedalboard. For fans attempting to recreate his sound, it is crucial to focus not just on replicating gear but also on a thorough understanding of tonal nuances and flexible settings that adapt to different songs.

▶ Search official YouTube videos of Suspended 4th

List of Amplifiers and Features

When discussing Kazuki Washiyama’s sound, the choice of amplifiers is indispensable. He employs different amps for various situations, including live performances, recordings, and street gigs, significantly broadening his sound palette. Notably, he primarily uses high-gain amplifiers like the Diezel Einstein and EVH 5150, while also combining them with amps like Friedman and VOX MV50, which have distinct tonal characters, to achieve a balance of rich distortion and clear clean tones.

For street performances, he opts for the portable VOX MV50, which delivers impressive power despite its compact size. The Diezel Einstein is known for its ability to provide both modern heavy sounds and rich clean tones, making it ideal for the intense ensemble work of Suspended 4th. On the other hand, the EVH 5150, a high-gain amplifier directly associated with Van Halen, adds a metal and hard rock attack to his guitar tone.

Additionally, the Friedman amp is designed based on vintage Marshall tones, allowing for a classic rock sound that can flexibly cover everything from bluesy tones to alternative distortion. He also utilizes an open-back cabinet from WEED, which enhances the spaciousness and clarity of his sound, creating a thick tone even in a trio setup.

These choices are not merely personal preferences; they are practical decisions that fulfill the musical requirements of Suspended 4th. Washiyama needs to recreate delicate jazz-like phrases with clean tones while also supporting powerful alternative sounds with strong distortion. Thus, his approach to amplifier selection is consistent with the philosophy of choosing the best solution for each situation.

Below is a list of confirmed amplifiers used by Kazuki Washiyama:

As seen, Washiyama’s amplifier system covers a wide range from small to large and clean to high-gain, allowing for flexible use depending on the scene.

Types of Guitars Used and Features

At the core of Kazuki Washiyama’s sound design is the iconic vintage Fender Stratocaster. Notably, his 1965 Stratocaster, featuring a transition logo and rosewood fingerboard, has been central to his live performances and recordings, bearing the marks of years of use.

This guitar shines in the album “Travel The Galaxy,” supporting bluesy yet delicate tones. Additionally, he also uses a vintage 1964 Stratocaster (red body), which is frequently featured in recordings. The red body and its aged tone provide a different character to his sound, enabling diverse sound creation in the studio.

Furthermore, he has incorporated a TL-type guitar from the domestic brand Kigoshi Guitar, which is said to be used extensively during recordings, adding a Telecaster-like attack that contrasts with the brightness of the Stratocaster. He also plays a Fender Japan Kato Takashi model Stratocaster, reflecting his respect for Takashi Kato, the guitarist of Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra.

In summary, Washiyama’s guitar style revolves around using vintage Stratocasters while flexibly incorporating domestic Telecaster types and signature models based on the song’s needs. The 1965 Stratocaster is a staple for live performances, while the 1964 red Stratocaster and Kigoshi TL play crucial roles in recordings, ensuring sound diversity.

The fusion of blues depth and modern effects seen in Suspended 4th’s music is made possible through these guitar choices and their strategic use.

Below is a list of confirmed guitars used by Kazuki Washiyama:

In conclusion, Kazuki Washiyama’s approach to guitar selection, centered around vintage Fenders while incorporating domestic brands and signature models, contributes to the unique multi-layered guitar sound characteristic of Suspended 4th.

Effects and Pedalboard Setup

At the core of Kazuki Washiyama’s sound design is his distinctive and highly customizable effects pedalboard. His setup is constructed not merely for sound enhancement but as an integral part of sound design. Notably, he actively employs domestic brands like Zahnrad and Nature Sound, achieving a unique texture that transcends conventional overdrive and fuzz.

The primary distortion comes from the Zahnrad INVERSION, an effect closely associated with him, to the extent that his model has been commercialized. This pedal combines the characteristics of distortion and fuzz, providing a rugged sound. He even uses two Zahnrad fuzz pedals with different settings, allowing him to switch characters during live performances based on the song. Additionally, the Nature Sound FUZZ is used in conjunction, covering everything from single-note riffs to explosive soundscapes.

For overdrive, he primarily uses a specially selected BOSS BD-2 (1995 model), chosen from over 20 units he tested, offering a unique tone not found in standard models. The Nature Sound JanRay is also included, covering a wide range from clean boosts to light overdrive.

In terms of modulation and spatial effects, he relies heavily on Strymon’s El Capistan V2 and Brigadier. These pedals allow for deep, analog-like delay and decay control, supporting the ethereal sound characteristic of Suspended 4th. Furthermore, unique pedals like the Gamechanger Audio Plasma Coil and Light Pedal add experimental and psychedelic elements to his sound. The Moogerfooger LF-101 is utilized to emphasize filter textures, allowing him to change sound characters from song to song.

For signal management, he employs BOSS LS-2, Nature Sound AB Box, and HAO A/B BOX, creating a system to switch between multiple fuzz and distortion pedals. The TC Electronic Ditto serves as a looper, facilitating solo performances and loop creation during live shows. Additionally, high-precision tuners like the Peterson Stomp Classic and Sonic Research Tuner, used by all band members, ensure stability during performances.

There’s also a focus on power supply, using Nature Sound’s power supply and battery supply to achieve clean, noise-free power. This enhances the reliability of the entire pedalboard. Overall, Washiyama’s effects board is structured around three axes: switching between multiple distortions, adding depth with spatial effects, and building soundscapes with unique effects, shaping the distinctive groove of Suspended 4th.

Below is a list of confirmed effects used by Kazuki Washiyama:

In conclusion, Kazuki Washiyama’s pedalboard is structured around multiple distortions, spatial effects, and unique effects, reflecting a design based on acoustic layering rather than mere equipment selection.

Tone Settings, EQ, and Mixing Approaches

In Kazuki Washiyama’s sound design, the focus is not merely on equipment selection but on “designing the balance and dimensionality of sound.” Since Suspended 4th operates as a trio, the guitar significantly influences the overall sound of the band. Therefore, he meticulously applies EQ and mixing techniques to optimize his tone.

When using amplifiers like the Diezel Einstein or EVH 5150, it is common for him to set the midrange slightly higher. This adjustment ensures that the guitar stands out without being buried by the bass and drums, which support the low end. Meanwhile, the treble is carefully adjusted to avoid excessive harshness, maintaining a pleasant frequency range even when distorted.

When utilizing fuzz or distortion, it is likely that he cuts the low end with EQ to prevent it from becoming too bloated. The Zahnrad fuzz and Nature Sound FUZZ, known for their long sustain, are adjusted to emphasize the mid and high frequencies, ensuring clarity in a trio setting. Conversely, when using overdrives like the BOSS BD-2 or JanRay, he likely retains some low end while adding treble to express a bluesy richness.

For spatial effects, he switches between the Strymon El Capistan and Brigadier depending on the song. In clean parts or ambient sections, he sets the delay time to 1/4 or 1/8 with moderate feedback to create a floating sensation. In contrast, during intense riffs, he adjusts the delay to a shorter setting to preserve attack. For reverb, he utilizes the Gamechanger Light Pedal, adding a fantastical resonance not achievable with standard spring reverb, contributing to the psychedelic quality unique to Suspended 4th.

Mixing techniques are also crucial. During recordings, he places the guitar slightly towards the center while boosting around 2-4kHz to ensure presence during solos. In backing tracks, he slightly cuts frequencies above 5kHz to avoid competing with vocals and cymbals. Additionally, when using fuzz, he avoids excessive compression to maintain dynamics, preserving the “raw power” of the sound.

During live performances, he uses the AB Box and LS-2 on his board to switch circuits instantly, allowing for tonal changes that match the song’s progression. When utilizing the looper (Ditto), he often layers phrases to fill the space, ensuring thickness even in a trio setup. This method is consistently employed in both street and large-scale performances by Suspended 4th.

In summary, Kazuki Washiyama’s sound design emphasizes “organizing lows,” “highlighting mids,” “adding depth with spatial effects,” and “contrasting fuzz with clean tones.” Rather than merely stepping on effects, he combines EQ and mixing to conduct “acoustic design,” which serves as the foundation of Suspended 4th’s music.

Affordable Alternatives to Recreate the Tone

Reproducing Kazuki Washiyama’s sound exactly can be challenging due to the involvement of rare pedals like vintage Stratocasters and Zahnrad. However, it is entirely possible to achieve a similar vibe with some creativity. Here, we introduce commercially available gear that is accessible for beginners to intermediate players, typically ranging from $100 to $500.

For distortion, the BOSS BD-2 Blues Driver is a key component. While Washiyama selected a special unit after testing over 20, the current model still provides a warm, bluesy overdrive. Keeping the gain low and raising the volume can help achieve a “thickness” similar to his clean tone.

Regarding fuzz, while Zahnrad and Nature Sound are hard to come by, a great alternative is the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff. This historical classic is known for its long sustain and thick low end, making it ideal for experiencing the explosive sound of Suspended 4th. Additionally, it is relatively affordable and easy to obtain.

For spatial effects, while Strymon is on the pricier side, more accessible options include the BOSS DD-8 Digital Delay and TC Electronic Flashback. These allow for precise delay time settings and clear repeat sounds, making it easier to recreate floating arpeggios. For reverb, the TC Electronic Hall of Fame offers excellent cost-performance.

As for wah pedals, replicating the vintage VOX V846 directly is difficult, but the current model VOX V847A can achieve a similar tone. It features a vintage-like wah sound, perfect for bluesy expressions.

Finally, regarding guitars, vintage Fenders can be expensive, but alternatives like the Fender Player Stratocaster (Made in Mexico) or Squier Classic Vibe series are viable options. They possess the bright character of single-coil pickups and are reasonably priced, making them suitable for experiencing the foundational sound of Suspended 4th.

Below is a list of recommended gear to create a similar sound affordably:

In summary, it is possible to approach Kazuki Washiyama’s “bluesy yet experimental” sound with relatively affordable gear. The key is to combine distortions and spatial effects appropriately while applying EQ settings that emphasize the midrange.

Summary and Conclusion

Reflecting on the sound design of Kazuki Washiyama from Suspended 4th, its essence can be summarized as “the fusion of vintage and modern,” “the contrast between fuzz and clean,” and “the construction of acoustic layers.” His approach is characterized by a thorough awareness of “which frequency range should be emphasized” within the context of the entire song and ensemble.

On the equipment side, he forms a unique sound by combining vintage guitars centered around a 1965 Stratocaster with handmade pedals from brands like Zahnrad and Nature Sound. His meticulousness is evident in using multiple fuzz pedals and selecting a special overdrive unit from over 20 tested, showcasing a strong commitment to individual pieces.

Moreover, his effects board functions not just as sound enhancement but as a “device for constructing soundscapes.” By using Strymon delays and unique pedals from Gamechanger Audio, he creates a three-dimensional and psychedelic texture that adds depth and floatiness to Suspended 4th’s music. Additionally, his use of loopers and AB Boxes enables rich and thick performances even in a trio setup.

Furthermore, the innovations in EQ and mixing are crucial. In both live and recording settings, he organizes the lows while emphasizing the mids to ensure a clear tone that retains its core. This is essential for a band like Suspended 4th, where the ensemble density is high and the guitar often takes the forefront.

Considering all this, to replicate Kazuki Washiyama’s sound, it is essential to focus not merely on copying gear but on adopting a “flexible approach to tone changes per song and a quest for acoustically optimal points.” While affordable gear can get you close, the essence lies in “how you play” and “how you mix.”

In conclusion, for those pursuing Washiyama’s sound, the key points are:
1. Base your setup around a vintage-style Strat.
2. Create an environment that allows for switching between multiple distortions.
3. Add depth with spatial effects and unique pedals.
4. Organize frequency ranges through EQ and mixing.
These four points encapsulate the core of the guitar sound that supports Suspended 4th’s music, characterized by “freedom and meticulous design.”