[UZ] – How to Recreate the SPYAIR Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

Introduction (Overview of Tone)

UZ, the guitarist of SPYAIR, is well known in the modern J-ROCK scene for his distinctive approach to sound design. His tone combines powerful, edgy distortion with delicate expressiveness tailored to each song, making his guitar work both impactful and versatile.

His playing style is deeply rooted in SPYAIR’s song structures and emphasizes practicality. In signature tracks such as “Samurai Heart,” “Genjō Destruction,” and “Imagination,” melodic lead phrases intertwine with heavy power chords, producing a gripping sonic impact that defines the band’s sound.

One of the main reasons UZ’s sound attracts attention is his ability to balance live intensity with studio delicacy. From amps to effects and guitars, he carefully selects gear that matches each song’s atmosphere. Since the late 2010s, his sound has evolved toward a more modern and polished style, gaining the attention of guitarists across Japan.

Another defining feature of UZ’s sound is his wide dynamic range, spanning from clean tones to high-gain distortion. This allows him to musically express SPYAIR’s emotional dynamics and enhances the overall impact of the band’s sound.

▶ Search official YouTube videos of SPYAIR

List of Amplifiers and Features [SPYAIR・UZ]

UZ’s amplifier setup is carefully chosen to meet the diverse tonal requirements of SPYAIR’s music. His criteria for selecting amps focus on balancing the punch and presence needed in live performances with the clarity and separation required in studio recordings.

The main amps confirmed in his rig are the Marshall JCM800 series and the Marshall JCM900 series. The JCM800, in particular, was heavily used during SPYAIR’s early to mid-era, forming the core of songs like “Samurai Heart” and “Genjō Destruction.” Its signature midrange push ensures the guitar cuts clearly through the band’s mix, giving his power chords a commanding presence.

Around 2015, UZ began incorporating the Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier into his setup. This amp brought a tighter low-end and clearer high-gain separation, perfectly suited for heavier tracks such as “RAGE OF DUST” and “MIDNIGHT.” The Dual Rectifier allowed UZ to expand into more modern-sounding, aggressive tones while still maintaining definition.

For live performances, he typically pairs these amps with Marshall 4×12 cabinets, fine-tuning settings based on the venue’s acoustics. In recent years, UZ has also adopted the Kemper Profiling Amplifier, which allows him to maintain consistent tones both live and in the studio, while simplifying logistics and ensuring tonal stability.

Beyond these, other high-end boutique models like the Bogner Shiva, Hughes & Kettner Triamp MKIII, and Matchless DC-30 are reported to have been used in certain settings, adding versatility from sparkling cleans to articulate crunch and high-gain power. These broaden his tonal palette, though they are less frequently seen compared to his Marshalls and Mesa/Boogie heads.

From this overview, it can be assumed that UZ’s choice of amps reflects both a respect for classic rock foundations and a willingness to embrace modern versatility, ensuring his sound remains powerful yet adaptable to each era of SPYAIR’s music.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Link	Artist	Guitarist	Notes
JCM800 2203	Marshall	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=JCM800+Marshall&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Mainly used in early to mid-era songs. Strong midrange projection with powerful power chords.
JCM900 4100	Marshall	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=JCM900+Marshall&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Used alongside the JCM800 for a more modern distortion character.
Dual Rectifier	Mesa/Boogie	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Dual+Rectifier+Mesa+Boogie&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Adopted around 2015. Offers tight low-end and clear separation at high gain, ideal for heavy tracks.
Kemper Profiling Amplifier	Kemper	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Kemper+Profiling+Amplifier&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Used in recent live shows and recordings for consistent, reliable tone shaping.
Shiva	Bogner	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Bogner+Shiva&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	2-channel design, versatile from lush cleans to strong high gain tones.
TRIAMP MKIII	Hughes & Kettner	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=TRIAMP+MKIII+Hughes+%26+Kettner&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Three channels with dual modes per channel. Extremely versatile for multi-genre setups.
DC-30	Matchless	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=MATCHLESS+DC-30&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Exceptional crunch tones and dynamic response. Favored for pro-level expression.

Types of Guitars Used and Features [SPYAIR・UZ]

UZ’s guitar choices are highly strategic, closely tied to both SPYAIR’s musical style and his own playing approach. His instruments can generally be divided into Les Paul-type guitars and Stratocaster-type guitars, each serving specific roles depending on the song and arrangement.

His most frequently used main guitar is the Gibson Les Paul Standard, particularly a 2010 sunburst model. This guitar has been confirmed in numerous live performances and TV appearances, becoming something of his trademark. It is prominently used on early SPYAIR hits such as “Samurai Heart” and “Genjō Destruction,” with its humbuckers providing the thick, driving sound that anchors the band’s riffs.

Around 2014, UZ began incorporating the Gibson Les Paul Custom. This model offers even fatter tones and longer sustain compared to the Standard, making it especially effective for heavier tracks like “RAGE OF DUST.” It is also favored in studio sessions for its commanding presence and sonic depth.

For cleaner passages and rhythmic cutting, he relies on a Fender Stratocaster American Standard. Its shimmering single-coil clarity adds brightness and melodic sparkle, especially in intros, interludes, and ballads where dynamics demand more sensitivity.

Since 2018, UZ has also been seen using a PRS SE Custom 24. This guitar blends the tonal qualities of a Les Paul and a Strat, giving him versatility in both live and recording contexts. Its growing role in his rig reflects his move toward broader tonal expression in the band’s newer material.

Additionally, UZ has been associated with custom dragonfly models such as the Original Flying V and HI TEE CUSTOM, both designed for high-output performance suited to louder rock settings. For acoustic work, he has used a K.Yairi DY-62 cutaway dreadnought, offering both projection and upper fret accessibility.

Overall, his guitar lineup shows a balance between iconic classics (Les Paul and Strat) and more specialized instruments. The selection process reveals his professional focus on both playability for live shows and tonal richness in recordings. It can be assumed that UZ chooses guitars with careful attention to neck feel, pickup balance, and how each instrument fits the emotional arc of a given song.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Link	Artist	Guitarist	Type	Notes
Les Paul Standard	Gibson	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Les+Paul+Standard+Gibson&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Electric Guitar	Main guitar, especially a 2010 sunburst model. Central to early SPYAIR sound.
Les Paul Custom	Gibson	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Les+Paul+Custom+Gibson&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Electric Guitar	Introduced around 2014. Used for heavier tracks and studio recording.
Stratocaster American Standard	Fender	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Stratocaster+American+Standard+Fender&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Electric Guitar	Used for clean tones and rhythmic cutting. Sparkling single-coil sound.
SE Custom 24	PRS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=SE+Custom+24+PRS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Electric Guitar	Frequently used since 2018. Balances Les Paul and Strat tonal qualities.
Original Flying V	dragonfly	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=dragonfly+Original+Flying+V&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Electric Guitar	666mm scale loud-rock model. Strong low and high frequency presence.
HI TEE CUSTOM	dragonfly	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=dragonfly+HI+TEE+CUSTOM&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Electric Guitar	Telecaster-style high-spec custom model, popular among Japanese pros.
DY-62	K.Yairi	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=K.Yairi+DY-62&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Acoustic Guitar	Unique cutaway dreadnought design with excellent playability in higher registers.

Effects and Pedalboard Setup [SPYAIR・UZ]

UZ’s pedalboard is meticulously crafted to handle the wide variety of tones required by SPYAIR’s songs. His setup can be broadly divided into three categories: distortion/drive, modulation, and ambient effects, each playing a crucial role depending on the musical context.

On the distortion side, the BOSS SD-1 Super OverDrive is a staple, used primarily as a boost rather than a standalone distortion. It tightens the amp’s natural overdrive and provides extra volume for solos. Its contribution is especially clear during songs like “Samurai Heart” and “Genjō Destruction,” where his solos punch through the mix with clarity.

Around 2016, UZ added the ProCo RAT 2, which offers a more aggressive distortion character. This pedal is featured prominently in heavier tracks like “RAGE OF DUST” and “MIDNIGHT,” where its thick midrange and articulate high-gain response match the intensity of the songs.

For modulation, the BOSS CH-1 Super Chorus has been a long-time fixture. UZ tends to use it with subtle depth to create natural spaciousness, particularly in ballads and clean passages where the guitar needs to shimmer without overwhelming the mix.

Delay has always been an essential part of UZ’s sound. Since the early days, he has relied on the BOSS DD-5 Digital Delay, shaping solos and interludes with both short slapback repeats and longer ambient echoes. More recently, the Strymon Timeline has taken over for more complex delay textures, allowing for rhythmic, modulated, and layered patterns beyond the DD-5’s capabilities.

Reverb duties are handled by the Strymon BigSky, a high-end unit known for lush, immersive soundscapes. This addition pushed UZ’s sound further into a professional realm, giving his clean tones depth and atmosphere that match modern rock production values.

His board also includes support gear to ensure stability and flexibility. The VOODOO LAB Pedal Power 2 Plus provides reliable power to all pedals, preventing issues during live shows. Switching duties are covered with a BOSS AB-2 A/B Switch, enabling seamless changes between amps or signal chains. For expressive playing, the VOX V847 Wah is used in funk-inspired riffs or lead passages, while additional boost and preamp pedals from Xotic (EP Booster, RC Booster, BB Preamp) expand tonal shaping options. These allow UZ to fine-tune dynamics, add transparency, or push amps into richer saturation.

Finally, classic pedals like the BOSS BD-2 Blues Driver remain part of his arsenal, valued for their natural response to picking nuances. Altogether, UZ’s pedalboard demonstrates a balance of tried-and-true classics and cutting-edge boutique gear, ensuring he can cover SPYAIR’s diverse catalogue with precision and character. From this perspective, it can be assumed that his choices prioritize both reliability and expressive flexibility.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Link	Artist	Guitarist	Effect Type	Notes
SD-1 Super OverDrive	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=SD-1+Super+OverDrive+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Overdrive	Always-on booster. Tightens amp distortion and boosts solos.
RAT 2	ProCo	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=RAT+2+ProCo&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Distortion	Added around 2016 for aggressive tones in heavier tracks.
CH-1 Super Chorus	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=CH-1+Super+Chorus+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Chorus	Used in ballads and clean parts. Subtle, natural spaciousness.
DD-5 Digital Delay	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=DD-5+Digital+Delay+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Delay	Long-time delay choice. Versatile for solos and interludes.
Timeline	Strymon	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Timeline+Strymon&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Delay	Adopted after 2018. Complex rhythmic and modulated delays.
BigSky	Strymon	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=BigSky+Strymon&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Reverb	High-quality, lush reverbs. Key to his modern clean sound.
V847 Wah	VOX	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=V847+VOX&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Wah Pedal	Used in funk-influenced riffs and expressive leads.
Pedal Power 2 Plus	VOODOO LAB	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Pedal+Power+2+Plus+VOODOO+LAB&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Power Supply	Stable power delivery for live reliability.
AB-2 A/B Switch	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=AB-2+A/B+Switch+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Switching System	Seamless channel and rig switching in performances.
EP Booster	Xotic	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=EP+Booster+Xotic&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Booster	Natural boost inspired by Echoplex. Enhances overall tone.
RC Booster	Xotic	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=RC+Booster+Xotic&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Booster	Transparent clean boost, enhances other pedals’ potential.
BB Preamp	Xotic	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=BB+Preamp+Xotic&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Preamp	Flexible from clean to drive. Boutique hand-wired design.
BD-2 Blues Driver	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=BD-2+Blues+Driver+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Overdrive	Natural, dynamic response. Suited for blues to rock.

Tone Settings, EQ, and Mixing Approaches [SPYAIR・UZ]

UZ’s approach to tone settings and EQ reflects a highly calculated strategy designed to express SPYAIR’s dynamic range and emotional energy. Rather than simply turning up the gain, he carefully considers how the guitar should sit in the overall mix, both live and in the studio, making his tone professional and song-oriented.

When using the Marshall JCM800, his typical settings are Gain at around 6–7, Bass at 4, Middle at 7–8, and Treble at 6. This midrange-focused setup ensures the guitar cuts through the mix clearly, even when the full band is playing. The emphasized mids prevent the guitar from being buried under drums and bass, while still delivering powerful chords and lead lines.

On the Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier, he takes a more modern approach. Usually set to Modern Mode, Gain is dialed to 5–6, Bass to 3, Middle to 6, Treble to 7, and Presence around 5. This creates a tight low end and articulate high-gain tone with excellent separation. Tracks such as “RAGE OF DUST” and “MIDNIGHT” particularly showcase this Rectifier-driven sound, combining heaviness with clarity.

A key feature of his EQ philosophy is tailoring settings by song type. In ballads, UZ often cuts some upper mids while slightly boosting lows and highs, achieving a warmer, smoother tone that complements emotional vocal performances. In fast rock numbers, however, he boosts the midrange and keeps the low end tight, producing a punchy yet controlled guitar voice that drives the energy of the song.

In studio mixes, his tone is further refined with the engineer’s input. Special attention is paid to avoiding frequency clashes with other instruments. Typically, frequencies below 80Hz are cut with a high-pass filter, ensuring separation from the bass guitar. Around 200Hz, a small boost reinforces body, while the 2kHz–5kHz range is shaped to define the guitar’s presence. Excess high frequencies above 10kHz are often rolled off to avoid harshness, while keeping clarity in the critical 3–5kHz range.

Compression is used strategically. In live settings, UZ favors light compression to preserve dynamics while maintaining volume consistency. In studio recording, however, compression levels vary by song: heavier compression on power-chord-driven tracks and lighter compression on lead-focused ballads. This dynamic approach prevents the guitar from sounding flat while still fitting tightly into the mix.

His use of time-based effects is also finely tuned. Reverb is typically a short plate type, kept at a subtle 20–30% wet mix to add space without drowning the tone. Delay times are set according to song tempo—eighth-note delays in slower ballads, sixteenth-note delays in faster songs. This rhythmic synchronization ensures the guitar feels cohesive with the rest of the band.

Live sound adjustments are made in close collaboration with PA engineers. UZ not only tweaks amp settings but also works with FOH engineers to optimize audience listening. This includes balancing clarity with impact so the guitar feels present without overpowering vocals or rhythm. Such attention to detail is one reason SPYAIR’s live shows feel powerful yet polished.

In recent years, UZ has also embraced digital tools, using DAWs like Pro Tools and Logic Pro X along with plugins from Waves and Universal Audio. These allow micro-level EQ sculpting and dynamics control, achieving adjustments that analog gear alone can’t provide. His hybrid workflow demonstrates a balance of traditional amp tones and modern studio precision.

From this analysis, it can be assumed that UZ’s tone philosophy revolves around clarity, balance, and adaptability. His sound is never static—he adjusts settings to fit the song’s emotional needs, ensuring the guitar serves the band’s overall expression rather than dominating it.

Affordable Alternatives to Recreate the Tone [SPYAIR・UZ]

For many guitarists inspired by SPYAIR’s UZ, it may not be realistic to purchase every piece of his professional-grade equipment. However, with the right choices, it is absolutely possible to approximate his tones on a more modest budget. The following recommendations focus on cost-effective gear that delivers strong performance and captures the essence of UZ’s sound.

On the amplifier side, the BOSS Katana-50 MkII is one of the best options available. This amp includes high-quality amp modeling that can convincingly reproduce tones similar to Marshall JCM800 crunch or Mesa/Boogie high-gain settings. Its “BROWN” and “LEAD” channels in particular provide tonal versatility well suited to SPYAIR’s catalog. With thoughtful EQ adjustments, the Katana covers everything from tight modern riffs to expressive cleans, making it a practical centerpiece for UZ-inspired tones.

For guitars, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50s offers the classic humbucker tone and sustain of a Gibson Les Paul but at a fraction of the price. Its warm mids and thick chord tones echo UZ’s primary guitar sound, making it a strong choice for power-chord-heavy songs like “Samurai Heart.” For those looking to emulate his clean tones, the Squier Classic Vibe ’70s Stratocaster is a budget-friendly way to achieve bright, single-coil clarity reminiscent of his Fender Stratocaster. Between these two instruments, guitarists can cover the full range of tones UZ employs live and in the studio.

When it comes to effects, multi-effects units provide exceptional value. The BOSS GT-1000 is particularly powerful, including detailed amp modeling and pedal simulations that replicate gear UZ actually uses: SD-1, RAT 2, CH-1, DD-series delays, and even boutique-style reverbs similar to Strymon’s. Its AIRD technology ensures responsive, realistic tones, making it ideal for players who want flexibility without building an entire pedalboard.

For those preferring individual pedals, starting with the BOSS SD-1 Super OverDrive and BOSS CH-1 Super Chorus provides a strong foundation. Both are relatively inexpensive, widely available, and identical to the pedals UZ uses himself. Adding a BOSS DD-3T Digital Delay offers modern functionality while retaining the sonic qualities of the older DD-5. This trio delivers distortion, chorus, and delay—the backbone of UZ’s tone—at a beginner-friendly cost.

For home practice, the Yamaha THR10II is another excellent choice. Compact yet powerful, it offers realistic amp modeling and built-in effects that make it perfect for late-night practice with headphones or casual jamming. Its portability and sound quality allow players to experiment with UZ-inspired tones in a convenient setup without disturbing others.

By combining one versatile amp, a solid Les Paul-style guitar, and a few essential pedals, guitarists can build a rig that captures much of UZ’s character. While it won’t perfectly match the nuance of his high-end equipment, the core tone and energy can absolutely be achieved at an affordable price point. This practical approach ensures fans and aspiring players can start exploring UZ’s sound world without financial strain.

Type	Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Link	Artist	Guitarist	Notes
Amp	Katana-50 MkII	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Katana-50+MkII+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Models both Marshall and Mesa/Boogie styles. BROWN and LEAD modes recreate UZ-style tones.
Guitar	Les Paul Standard 50s	Epiphone	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Les+Paul+Standard+50s+Epiphone&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Captures Gibson Les Paul’s midrange thickness and sustain at a lower cost.
Guitar	Classic Vibe ’70s Stratocaster	Squier	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Classic+Vibe+70s+Stratocaster+Squier&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Affordable Strat model delivering bright, clear single-coil tones similar to UZ’s clean sound.
Multi-Effects	GT-1000	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=GT-1000+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	High-end multi-effects unit modeling UZ’s pedals and amps. Professional-level flexibility.
Overdrive	SD-1 Super OverDrive	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=SD-1+Super+OverDrive+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Identical to UZ’s pedal. Affordable, reliable boost for leads and riffs.
Chorus	CH-1 Super Chorus	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=CH-1+Super+Chorus+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Same chorus pedal used by UZ. Adds natural depth to clean parts.
Delay	DD-3T Digital Delay	BOSS	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=DD-3T+Digital+Delay+BOSS&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Modern successor to the DD-5, offering the same core sound with added features.
Practice Amp	THR10II	Yamaha	https://www.amazon.com/s?k=THR10II+Yamaha&tag=toneguitarblo-20	SPYAIR	UZ	Compact, headphone-friendly amp for home practice. Includes versatile modeling.

Summary and Conclusion [SPYAIR・UZ]

Looking at UZ’s sound-making philosophy as a whole, its essence lies in “deep understanding of the song” and “technical mastery to express that understanding.” His tone is not just the result of expensive gear; it comes from knowing each piece of equipment inside and out, and applying it in the right context for SPYAIR’s music.

SPYAIR’s songs are built on emotional dynamism, and UZ translates that through his guitar. From pristine cleans to high-gain distortion, his ability to shift naturally between tones is central to why his sound resonates so strongly. Many guitarists can learn from this fluid adaptability, rather than fixating solely on acquiring identical gear.

Perhaps the most defining trait of UZ’s tone is his constant awareness of “the guitar’s role within the band.” His parts never overpower unnecessarily; instead, they complement the vocals, bass, and drums, achieving balance while still projecting presence. This cooperative mindset makes SPYAIR’s music powerful as a whole, rather than dominated by any one instrument.

In terms of gear philosophy, UZ tends to value reliability and practicality over trends. His long-term use of BOSS pedals and reliance on the Gibson Les Paul reflect a focus on proven essentials. At the same time, he is not afraid to embrace progress, as seen with the introduction of Strymon pedals or the Kemper Profiler, updating his rig to match modern production standards.

For players aiming to emulate UZ, the key lesson is that tone comes more from “understanding the music” than “owning the same gear.” Carefully listen to SPYAIR’s tracks, identify when different sounds are used, and consider why they were chosen in context. By adopting this mindset, you can achieve a sound much closer to UZ’s spirit, even if your setup is different.

Another valuable takeaway is UZ’s philosophy that “technique is a means of expression, not the end goal.” While his technical ability is undeniable, it always serves the song rather than showing off. This humility and focus on expression is a perspective all guitarists can benefit from.

On the technical side, his use of EQ, compression, and spatial effects shows logical and systematic thinking. Every adjustment is made with a clear goal: to ensure the guitar fits properly into the mix. This is particularly instructive for home recordists and band members managing their own sound.

Ultimately, the appeal of UZ’s tone comes from the harmony of three elements: high-level skill, deep musical sensitivity, and an unwavering commitment to enhancing the song. These qualities are not bound by price tags or rare equipment — they are skills that any guitarist can develop with dedication. The biggest lesson from UZ’s sound is this: the most compelling guitar tones arise when technique and emotion are in balance, serving the music above all else.