[TAXMAN] – How to Recreate the THE BAWDIES Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

Introduction (Overview of Tone)

TAXMAN, the guitarist of THE BAWDIES, is widely recognized as a pioneer of rock’n’roll sound rooted in 1950s–60s Black music. His guitar tone is characterized by the warm tube-driven crunch and sparkling cleans that come from combining vintage amplifiers with classic guitars.

On standout tracks like “HOT DOG” and “ROCK ME BABY,” the sharp, cutting tone of his Fender Telecaster pairs perfectly with the warm tube sound of the Ampeg VT-22. Together, they establish an old-school sound that feels rare in today’s rock scene. TAXMAN’s style is not about flashy technique but about choosing just the right tones to serve the song, carving out the perfect position within the band’s ensemble.

The core of his tone is the always-on Ibanez TS808, a simple yet effective setting. Rather than relying on a complex pedal chain, he takes a classic approach—emphasizing the natural character of the guitar and amp. His respect for 1960s British rock icons like Eric Clapton and The Yardbirds is also reflected in his gear choices.

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List of Amplifiers and Features [THE BAWDIES · TAXMAN]

TAXMAN’s amplifier selection clearly shows his devotion to vintage amps from the 1970s. His main choice, the Ampeg VT-22, is a combo amp originally manufactured in the 1970s. While Ampeg is primarily known for its bass amps, the VT-22 gained high recognition among guitarists for its rich, tube-driven sound. Its warm distortion and thick low-midrange response provide the weight and power essential to THE BAWDIES’ rock’n’roll sound.

As a secondary amp, TAXMAN has been seen using the Fender Pro Reverb, one of Fender’s most iconic mid-1960s designs. Known for its shimmering clean tones and lush onboard reverb, the Pro Reverb plays a vital role in his clean passages and arpeggio-driven songs. With 40 watts of tube power, it is versatile enough for both studio recording and live venues, making it a highly practical amplifier choice.

These choices highlight TAXMAN’s philosophy: favoring analog circuitry and natural tonal response over modern modeling amps or digital processors. The Ampeg VT-22, in particular, offers a unique midrange depth that is difficult to replicate with other amps, making it an irreplaceable part of THE BAWDIES’ sonic identity. His amplifier selection demonstrates a refined ear—balancing stage volume, presence, and studio clarity in a way that only comes from years of experience.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Lowest Price URL	Artist	Guitarist	Notes
VT-22	Ampeg	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	1970s combo amp. Used as the main amp. Known for its warm tube sound.
Pro Reverb	Fender	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Mid-1960s classic. 40W with bright cleans and beautiful onboard reverb.

From these amplifier choices, we can assume that TAXMAN’s priority lies in preserving the authentic warmth and presence of vintage analog amps, rather than relying on digital convenience. His consistent use of these amps suggests a strong belief in the irreplaceable character of old-school tone, or so it can be assumed.

Types of Guitars Used and Features [THE BAWDIES · TAXMAN]

TAXMAN’s guitar collection reads like a vintage guitar textbook. His main instrument is a 1973 Fender Telecaster Custom, a true original from the golden era of 1970s Telecasters. Primarily using the bridge pickup, this guitar delivers a powerful tone with sharp attack and impressive sustain, forming the backbone of his thick, punchy lead tone heard in many THE BAWDIES songs.

Equally important is his 1972 Gibson Les Paul Custom in Cherry Sunburst. While the Les Paul Custom is often associated with the “Black Beauty” finish, TAXMAN’s Cherry Sunburst model stands out as a rare and unique instrument. Its humbuckers provide a thick, warm sound ideal for ballads and solos—offering a tonal palette that the Telecaster alone cannot achieve.

He also owns two custom-ordered Fender Custom Shop Telecasters. One, a Fiesta Red 1964-spec Telecaster, was built as an homage to Eric Clapton’s Yardbirds-era guitar. It reflects THE BAWDIES’ deep respect for 1950s–60s Black music and British rock. Built in NOS (New Old Stock) spec without relic treatment, it showcases TAXMAN’s preference for clean, classic aesthetics.

The second Custom Shop ’52 Telecaster features an unusual configuration: single-coil in the bridge and humbucker in the neck. This practical setup allows him to switch between sharp Tele tones and fuller humbucker warmth within a single guitar. It was once his main live guitar and even became the basis for his Fender signature model, proving how refined and stage-ready the design is.

TAXMAN also treasures his Olympic White Fender Stratocaster, bought during his student years out of admiration for Jimi Hendrix. Upgraded with 1960s-style pickups, it remains part of his recording arsenal, adding another essential color to his tonal palette with shimmering cleans and expressive dynamics.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Lowest Price URL	Artist	Guitarist	Type of Guitar	Notes
Telecaster Custom ’73	Fender	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Electric Guitar (Telecaster)	1973 original vintage. Main guitar with sharp attack and sustain.
Les Paul Custom ’72	Gibson	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Electric Guitar (Les Paul)	1972 Cherry Sunburst. Used for ballads and solos with warm tone.
Telecaster ’64 spec Fiesta Red	Fender Custom Shop	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Electric Guitar (Telecaster)	Clapton-inspired homage model. NOS spec, no relic treatment.
’52 Telecaster (Bridge: Single / Neck: Humbucker)	Fender Custom Shop	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Electric Guitar (Telecaster)	Special configuration. Once his main live guitar, later a signature model.
Stratocaster Olympic White	Fender	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Electric Guitar (Stratocaster)	Bought as a student inspired by Hendrix. Upgraded with 60s pickups, still used in studio.

From this lineup, it is clear that TAXMAN values vintage tone not just for style but for its authentic contribution to the band’s sound. Each guitar serves a distinct purpose in his arsenal, or so it can be assumed.

Effects and Pedalboard Setup [THE BAWDIES · TAXMAN]

TAXMAN’s pedalboard is strikingly simple compared to many modern guitarists. His mainstay is the Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer, an original unit produced between 1979 and 1981. His model is further modified with an ANALOG.MAN MOD, making it a rare and highly sought-after pedal. The Tube Screamer remains on at all times, not just for overdrive, but also as a tonal enhancer—slightly coloring the clean tone and lifting the guitar’s signal into the sweet spot of the amp.

The magic of the TS808 lies in its ability to push the midrange (around 500Hz–2kHz), coaxing natural tube amp breakup while maintaining clarity and musicality. The ANALOG.MAN MOD further refines the circuit, enhancing transparency and improving dynamics. This pedal pairs exceptionally well with both the Ampeg VT-22 and Fender Pro Reverb, effectively acting as both a drive and a subtle booster to maximize the amps’ tonal richness.

For tuning, TAXMAN relies on the BOSS TU-2 pedal tuner, a workhorse model produced from 1998 to 2017. Known for its precision and durability, it has long been a staple on countless professional pedalboards. TAXMAN’s board is essentially just these two pedals: the TS808 and TU-2. By keeping his rig minimal, he avoids unnecessary complexity and instead leans on the natural qualities of his guitar and amp.

This stripped-down pedal philosophy reflects THE BAWDIES’ musical DNA. Their roots in 1950s–60s rock’n’roll and blues emphasize raw analog warmth over digital polish. TAXMAN’s minimal setup forces his playing dynamics and sense of timing to shine through. The lack of effects means there’s no safety net—his sound is pure, confident, and built on trust in his own touch and his vintage gear.

By not relying on layers of modulation, delay, or reverb pedals, TAXMAN keeps the focus on authenticity. His sound stands as a statement: the fewer the effects, the closer the connection between player and listener. This is both a technical choice and a musical philosophy that defines THE BAWDIES’ timeless energy, or so it can be assumed.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Lowest Price URL	Artist	Guitarist	Type of Effect	Notes
TS808	Ibanez	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Overdrive	Original 1979–81 version with ANALOG.MAN MOD. Always-on pedal, core of his tone.
TU-2	BOSS	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Tuner	Produced 1998–2017. Classic pedal tuner used for live reliability.

Tone Settings, EQ, and Mixing Approaches [THE BAWDIES · TAXMAN]

The core of TAXMAN’s tone strategy lies in extracting maximum expression from an extremely simple signal chain. Keeping the Ibanez TS808 always engaged is not just about adding overdrive—it fine-tunes the guitar’s frequency balance and improves the interaction with the amp. The Tube Screamer’s mid boost, centered around 500Hz–2kHz, brings presence to the guitar while naturally driving the amp into sweet, musical saturation.

With the Ampeg VT-22, his EQ settings are often thought to lean toward bold low-end and strong mids. A typical setting would be Bass around 7–8, Mid around 6–7, and Treble around 5–6. Since the VT-22 was originally designed as a bass amp, its low-frequency reproduction is very strong, so TAXMAN likely dials back the bass slightly to avoid clashing with the band’s bass guitar. The amp’s thick midrange, however, remains key to giving his rhythm guitar authority within the mix.

On the Fender Pro Reverb, settings are usually optimized for crystal-clear cleans and lush reverb. Volume often sits at 6–7, Bass around 6, Middle at 5, Treble pushed to 7–8, and Reverb between 3–4. The onboard spring reverb provides a distinctive shimmering quality reminiscent of 1960s surf rock. TAXMAN likely adjusts reverb depth based on song style: subtle for uptempo rock tracks, deeper for slower ballads and atmospheric passages.

In the studio, TAXMAN’s guitar tracks are typically balanced with careful EQ to avoid competing with vocals. Engineers often reduce some energy in the 1kHz–3kHz range, where vocal presence dominates, while fine-tuning 2kHz–4kHz to prevent clashing with snare drum attack. This ensures his guitar remains powerful but never overshadows other instruments in the mix.

Microphone placement plays a vital role in capturing his tone. For the Ampeg VT-22, engineers likely combine close-miking (with classics like the Shure SM57 or Royer R-121 ribbon mic) and room mics (such as Neumann U67 or AKG C414) to blend the amp’s punch with natural room ambience. This dual-mic setup creates a balance of definition and space, highlighting the warmth of TAXMAN’s vintage gear.

Dynamic processing is kept minimal. Heavy compression would flatten his playing nuances, so engineers instead apply light compression, often with vintage-style units like the UREI 1176 or LA-2A emulations. This smooths out peaks while preserving the natural touch and swing essential to THE BAWDIES’ groove. EQ adjustments remain subtle, with emphasis on letting the guitar’s inherent voice carry the track.

Song-by-song variations demonstrate TAXMAN’s sensitivity to arrangement. For upbeat numbers like “HOT DOG,” the combination of Telecaster and Ampeg VT-22 delivers a driving, crunchy rhythm tone. In contrast, on ballads like “SUNSHINE,” he switches to Stratocaster through the Fender Pro Reverb, producing bright, clean arpeggios that shimmer in the mix. These intentional gear pairings show that his setup is never static—always tailored to the musical moment.

Altogether, TAXMAN’s approach emphasizes authenticity and natural dynamics. His tone settings are not about radical EQ shapes or extreme processing but about balance—enhancing the guitar’s role within the full band. His methods reflect the discipline of a craftsman who trusts his touch, his vintage gear, and the subtle art of blending sound, or so it can be assumed.

Affordable Alternatives to Recreate the Tone [THE BAWDIES · TAXMAN]

To recreate TAXMAN’s tone on a more accessible budget, the key is understanding the essence of his setup: simplicity and warmth. His rig is built around a single overdrive, a vintage tube amp, and classic guitars. Fortunately, there are modern and affordable options that capture these qualities without requiring vintage prices.

For pedals, the Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer is the most direct and practical alternative. Considered the “younger brother” of the TS808, it shares the same core circuit and mid-boost character, giving your amp that pushed, lively breakup for around $100. It’s widely available, reliable, and capable of delivering a tone close to TAXMAN’s always-on overdrive philosophy.

In terms of amps, the Fender Blues Junior IV is a fantastic substitute for the Fender Pro Reverb. With 15 watts of tube power, sparkling cleans, and lush built-in reverb, it delivers a tone palette that feels remarkably close to TAXMAN’s clean tones. At roughly $500, it’s versatile enough for home practice, studio work, and small gigs—just like the Pro Reverb’s multi-purpose role.

For guitars, the Fender Player Telecaster is the go-to modern option. Made in Mexico, it costs about half of a U.S. Fender but still delivers the punchy bridge pickup tone, sharp attack, and bright sustain that define TAXMAN’s main ’73 Telecaster Custom. Around $750–800, it’s a workhorse that can handle live and studio settings alike. If your budget is tighter, the Squier Classic Vibe ’70s Telecaster Custom is an even more affordable choice, around $350, recreating not only the look but also much of the tonal character of TAXMAN’s vintage Telecaster.

If you prefer multi-effects, the BOSS GT-1 is a smart budget-friendly unit at about $150. It includes Tube Screamer-style overdrives and Fender amp models, allowing you to approximate TAXMAN’s simple rig in a single box. With its built-in tuner, it’s highly practical for live use as well. For those seeking a compact, analog-style drive, the BOSS SD-1 Super Over Drive is another strong choice. At under $50, it offers a midrange push similar to the Tube Screamer, making it a hidden gem for achieving vintage-inspired crunch.

On the amp side, the Orange Rocker 15 is worth mentioning. Priced around $700–800, it delivers a warm, mid-focused overdrive reminiscent of TAXMAN’s Ampeg VT-22. While not identical, its natural tube saturation captures the vintage rock spirit better than many modern digital amps. This makes it a great option for players wanting that raw, powerful character in smaller venues.

Finally, for tuners, the BOSS TU-3 is the modern successor to TAXMAN’s TU-2. Priced at about $100, it offers the same precision and reliability with improved visibility. It’s an essential piece for any pedalboard, ensuring your tone starts with perfect tuning.

Type	Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Lowest Price URL	Artist	Guitarist	Notes
Overdrive	TS9 Tube Screamer	Ibanez	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Modern version of the TS808. Affordable (~$100) with similar mid-boost tone.
Amp	Blues Junior IV	Fender	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	15W tube amp with sparkling cleans and spring reverb. ~$500.
Guitar	Player Telecaster	Fender	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Made in Mexico. ~$750. Punchy tone similar to vintage Telecaster.
Guitar	Classic Vibe ’70s Telecaster Custom	Squier	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Budget option (~$350). Looks and sounds close to TAXMAN’s ’73 Telecaster Custom.
Multi-Effects	GT-1	BOSS	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Affordable (~$150). Includes Tube Screamer drive and Fender amp models.
Amp	Rocker 15	Orange	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	15W British tube amp with thick mids, similar spirit to the Ampeg VT-22.
Overdrive	SD-1 Super Over Drive	BOSS	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Very affordable (~$50). Shares a midrange push similar to the TS808.
Tuner	TU-3	BOSS	Amazon Search	THE BAWDIES	TAXMAN	Modern successor to the TU-2. ~$100. Reliable with improved visibility.

By combining a budget-friendly Tube Screamer, a tube combo like the Blues Junior, and a Telecaster model from Fender or Squier, players can come surprisingly close to TAXMAN’s signature tone without spending a fortune.

Summary and Conclusion [THE BAWDIES · TAXMAN]

A deeper look into TAXMAN’s sound reveals its true essence: the “art of subtraction.” While many modern guitarists rely on elaborate pedalboards and cutting-edge digital gear, TAXMAN intentionally keeps his setup simple, maximizing the natural expression of his guitar and amp. This is not a lack of interest in gear—it is a deliberate choice, grounded in THE BAWDIES’ musical identity and his own years of experience.

The most striking aspect is his unique approach of keeping the Ibanez TS808 always engaged. Instead of treating it as just another overdrive, TAXMAN uses it as a tonal bridge between guitar and amp. Its midrange boost optimizes the signal, encouraging natural tube breakup. This subtle but powerful interaction forms the very core of his sound. In today’s digital era, such warm, analog-driven saturation is a rare treasure.

His preference for vintage instruments is also more than mere nostalgia or collector’s pride. The 1970s Fender Telecasters, Gibson Les Pauls, Ampeg VT-22, and Fender Pro Reverb all carry an undeniable authenticity. These pieces of gear are not just tools—they embody the textures of 1950s–60s rock’n’roll and rhythm & blues, the very roots that THE BAWDIES strive to revive in a modern context. The warmth and vibe of these vintage instruments simply cannot be replicated by new digital equipment.

The lesson modern players can take from TAXMAN is clear: “gear is a means, not an end.” His choices always begin with the needs of the music, not the other way around. Instead of chasing gear for its own sake, TAXMAN focuses on finding the exact tones that serve the song. This rational, music-first philosophy is a refreshing contrast to the gear-obsessed approach of many players, and it sets an example worth following.

Another key element is how his rig fits into the overall band mix. Every choice—dialing EQ, leaving space for vocals, balancing with bass, or sharing groove with the drums—is aimed at strengthening the ensemble. TAXMAN’s sound is less about soloistic virtuosity and more about creating a powerful, unified band sound. It reflects a sense of responsibility to the group, not just personal expression.

For guitarists looking to emulate TAXMAN, the deeper takeaway is not to copy his rig but to understand his musical mindset. His philosophy teaches us that expressive tones can come from minimal gear, that vintage character holds lasting value, and that music—not equipment—should guide every decision. By focusing on these principles, any guitarist can discover a more authentic and personal voice.

In the end, TAXMAN’s approach prioritizes musical conviction over technical flash, beauty in simplicity over complexity, and ensemble unity over individual showmanship. This philosophy is part of what makes THE BAWDIES so enduringly loved and why TAXMAN continues to stand out as a unique figure in Japan’s rock scene.