This article series is about the tools of popular guitarists. What are their favorite guitars and how is it related to them? This time with David Rock Feinstein (The Rods).
When you start guitar playing and do you remember your first guitar?
When you only can choose one guitar, which one will you take?
Actually I didn’t start playing guitar till I was a teenager. I first started playing trumpet at age 7, then when I wanted to start a rock band when I became a teenager, I took up playing the drums. My best friend at the time played guitar, and he began showing me some chords on the guitar. When Ronnie ( DIO ) asked me to join his band as a rhythm guitar player, I said yes, and that’s when guitar became my major instrument. I was about 18 years old. I only knew three chords on the guitar, lol, but learned fast. My first guitar was a Gibson ES 330.
What are your influences and which guitar players are your faves?
My major influences on guitar were Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix, and Richie Blackmore. They seemed to be free lance, and since I was self taught, I felt that these were the people that played in a style that I felt I could relate to.They were my favorite players, but I also liked many others from that era.
How many guitars do you own and what are your favorite models?
I only own about 12 guitars. I’ve always played Gibson“s, Gold top Les Paul, Les Paul Jrs., and Melody Makers, all being Gibson models. In recent years I discovered Steinberger guitars, which are very much like a Gibson, and play an early 80’s GM 1 Trans Trem, quite frequently.
What do you think makes the perfect guitar and amp?
That is a tough question because it depends on who is using it, and what type of music they are playing. I have always used Marshall amps my whole career. They just seemed right for me and the sound I was looking for. However, today there are many choices that are very good.
How do you feel about the question of modeler or tube amp?
I have always preferred the tube amp sound, but in todays world technology has given all of us thousands of options. I have used modelers at times, have and been very happy with the sound I was getting.
Which guitars and amps were used on the new album or for recordings?
On this latest album I used a couple of different Gibsons that I own, as well as the Steinberger. I used modeling, as well as Marshall amplification.
When you only can choose one guitar, which one will you take?
If I am traveling, I usually bring the Steinberger. It’s built like a tank, sounds great, and is small and easy to carry. My second choice would be one of my Gibson Melody Makers.
