Ed Sheeran guitar, an international sensation, ascended from humble beginnings to claim his throne in the music industry. Armed with just an acoustic guitar and a loop pedal, Sheeran’s unique musical style has resonated with millions worldwide.
Early Years: A Musical Prodigy Emerges
Ed Sheeran’s journey commenced at the tender age of four when he joined the church choir, a prelude to his remarkable musical future. By eleven, he had already picked up the guitar, a pivotal moment that set the stage for his extraordinary career. During high school, his musical prowess earned him the title of “most likely to be famous.” Sheeran’s influences, from Bob Dylan to Eminem, molded his musical identity.
Ed Sheeran Guitar Arsenal: Unveiling the Strings of Melody
Martin LX1E – A Compact Marvel (2008-2013)
Ed Sheeran’s affinity for smaller guitars manifested in his early career, notably with the Martin LX1E. The “E” in LX1E signifies its acoustic/electric capabilities, and Sheeran favored the Fishman Q Preamp for its percussive-friendly pickup.
Martin Ed Sheeran guitar x Signature Edition: Echoes of “x” (2015-Present)
In 2015, a second collaboration with Martin birthed the Ed Sheeran x Signature Edition, named after his album “x.” This model boasts a 3/4 scale with koa wood back and sides, carrying the legacy of its predecessor. The distinctive “x” symbol on the body and fretboard and Sheeran’s charitable contributions add a philanthropic touch to this signature guitar.
Fender Eric Clapton Crash 1 Stratocaster: A Graffiti-Infused Interlude (2015-Present)
Ed Sheeran’s admiration for Eric Clapton materialized in the Fender Eric Clapton Crash 1 Stratocaster. A graffiti-adorned tribute to Clapton’s iconic Crash guitar, this electric beauty briefly graced Sheeran’s stage performances, notably during renditions of “Thinking Out Loud.”
Lowden WL-35: The Gift and the Friendship (2018-Present)
Gary Lightbody, frontman of Snow Patrol, bestowed Ed Sheeran with his first Lowden guitar in 2012. This gesture blossomed into a friendship, resulting in the creation of the Wee Lowden series. The WL-35, with its small body and premium features, became Sheeran’s acoustic weapon of choice in 2018.
Martin LX1: Revisiting the Roots (2012–2014)
Amidst a brief detour to Maton, Sheeran returned to his trusted Martin LX1. The non-electric LX1, enhanced with Sheeran’s preferred Fishman Q Preamp, delivered acoustic brilliance during significant auditorium performances. This model paid homage to the early days of Sheeran’s professional career.
Lowden GL-10: Electric Ventures (2017-Present)
Simultaneously embracing Lowden’s acoustic prowess, Sheeran incorporated the GL-10 into his repertoire for electric performances. With its thin design, Brazilian mahogany body, and dual Lollar P90 pickups, the GL-10 perfectly complements Sheeran’s eclectic musical palette.
Martin LX1E Ed Sheeran Signature “Each” Edition: A Charitable Serenade (2013–2014)
Collaborating with Martin again in 2013, Sheeran introduced the LX1E Ed Sheeran Signature “Each” Edition. This charitable masterpiece, adorned with an engraved “+” symbol and bright orange details, contributed royalties to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices. Sheeran’s philanthropic spirit echoed through the performances of “Each” edition during the Red tour with Taylor Swift.
PRS Hollowbody II – Electrifying the Stage (2014-Present)
Ed Sheeran’s foray into the electric realm materialized with the PRS Hollowbody II. This exquisite electric guitar, featuring a Faded Whale Blue finish and LR Baggs piezo system, added a new dimension to Sheeran’s amplified performances.
Martin XL1E Ed Sheeran Divide Signature Edition: ÷ for Divide (2017)
In 2017, Sheeran returned to Martin to craft the XL1E Ed Sheeran Divide Signature Edition, aligning with his album “Divide.” Laminated mahogany back and sides and a spruce top offered a weatherproof and visually striking guitar. The “÷” symbol etched on the body and blue details encapsulated the essence of Sheeran’s musical journey during the Divide era.
A Symphony of Strings Unveiled
Ed Sheeran’s choice of guitars mirrors the diverse musical chapters in his storied career. From intimate acoustic serenades to electric crescendos, each instrument tells a tale of collaboration, inspiration, and charity. As Sheeran continues to captivate audiences globally, his guitars remain steadfast companions in this musical odyssey.
Early Beginnings and Musical Influences of Ed Sheeran Guitar
Ed Sheeran’s musical odyssey began at the tender age of four when he joined the church choir. By turning eleven, he was already strumming chords on his guitar. During his high school years, Sheeran’s exceptional musical talent earned him the title of “most likely to be famous” among his classmates. Influenced by legends like Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Eminem, and Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton ignited his guitar passion.
Ed Sheeran’s Guitar Arsenal
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2008 to 2011
Ed Sheeran’s first guitar, Cyril, began his professional journey. This Martin LX1E, equipped with a Fishman Q Preamp, accompanied him through countless shows, including the Suffolk Coastal Soundwaves CD Launch 2008.
Martin LX1E
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2008 to 2013
Known for his fondness for smaller guitars, Sheeran played a Martin Backpacker acoustic early in his career. However, the Martin LX1E, a 3/4 scale guitar, became one of his favourites due to its comfort and portability. The LX1E’s solid Sitka spruce top, mahogany back, and sides, combined with the Fishman Q Preamp, contributed to its iconic sound.
Martin LX1E “Nigel”
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2010 to 2013
Nigel, Sheeran’s second LX1E, maintained the natural finish and Fishman Q Preamp setup. With its paw print sticker and road-worn patches, Nigel served as Sheeran’s primary guitar in the U.S. from 2010 to 2013.
The “+” Themed Guitars
Martin LX1 “Trevor”
Finish: Natural with Custom Stickers
Years Used: 2012 to 2013
Trevor, Sheeran’s first “+” themed guitar, featured custom stickers and the Fishman Q Preamp system. Together, Trevor and Sheeran conquered the concert circuit during the Australian tour 2013.
Martin LX1 “James II”
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2013
James II emerged as Trevor’s replacement in 2013, featuring the Fishman Q Preamp and Sheeran’s signature “+” logo. This guitar became Sheeran’s primary choice for the first half 2013, showcasing its resilience on stage.
Martin LX1 “Murray”
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2013 to 2014
Serving as James II’s backup, Murray, another Martin LX1, saw occasional use toward the end of 2013 and into 2014. With the Fishman Q Preamp, Murray played a supporting role in Sheeran’s performances.
Martin LX1 “Chris”
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2014
Chris, the final Martin LX1 in Sheeran’s collection, appeared in 2014. With no stickers or decals, Chris retained the Fishman Q Preamp, showcasing simplicity in its design. It played a role in Sheeran’s appearances during 2014.
Evolution to Custom Models of Ed Sheeran Guitar
Martin 00-28VS Custom
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2014
In a departure from the Little Martin series, Sheeran collaborated with Martin to create the 00-28VS Custom. This full-size guitar, part of the Vintage Series, featured a Sitka spruce top, East Indian rosewood back and sides, and personalized touches, including gecko inlays and an “x” for his album promotion.
Diversifying with Electric Ed Sheeran Guitar
PRS McCarty 594 Hollowbody II
Finish: Faded Whale Blue
Years Used: 2014 to Present
Sheeran, occasionally delving into electric territory, adopted the PRS McCarty 594 Hollowbody II in Faded Whale Blue. This electric guitar, equipped with dual 58/15 humbuckers and an LR Baggs piezo system, offered a smooth, soulful sound.
Fender Eric Clapton Crash 1 Stratocaster
Finish: Crash Custom Artwork
Years Used: 2015 to Present
Inspired by Eric Clapton, Sheeran acquired the Fender Eric Clapton Crash 1 Stratocaster. Adorned with custom artwork, this guitar became a prominent part of Sheeran’s electric performances.
Martin Ed Sheeran Guitar x Signature Edition
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2015 to Present
In collaboration with Martin, Sheeran introduced his Ed Sheeran x Signature Edition. Based on the LX1E, this guitar featured a 3/4 scale, solid Sitka spruce top, and koa wood back and sides. The “x” symbol and blue divide symbols added a distinctive touch.
Signature Edition
Finish: Natural Sapele
Years Used: 2017
Continuing his partnership with Martin, Sheeran unveiled the XL1E Ed Sheeran Divide Signature Edition in 2017. This guitar, featuring a solid Sapele top and Fishman Sonitone electronics, showcased Sheeran’s ongoing commitment to quality and innovation.
Lowden GL-10
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2017 to Present
Expanding his collection, Sheeran added the Lowden GL-10 to his arsenal in 2017. This guitar became a staple in his live performances with its exceptional craftsmanship and tonal clarity.
Lowden WL-35
Finish: Natural
Years Used: 2018 to Present
In 2018, Sheeran incorporated the Lowden WL-35 into his collection. Known for its warmth and responsiveness, this guitar complemented Sheeran’s diverse musical styles.
Ed Sheeran Guitar Amplification Choice
Ed Sheeran, renowned for his acoustic performances, occasionally embraces electric elements to enhance his sound. The Vox AC15C1 is his choice amplifier, providing the classic Vox chime in a portable 15-watt combo amp. Its 12″ Celestion Greenback speaker delivers a distinctive mid-range sound that complements Sheeran’s musical style.
Effects and Pedals
Sheeran’s approach to effects and pedals revolves around the ingenious use of loop pedals. These devices allow him to create intricate layers of sound during live performances, a technique he mastered during his early days as a street performer.
Boss RC-20XL Loop Station
In his humble beginnings, Sheeran relied on the Boss RC-20XL Loop Station. This compact pedal, offering up to 11 separate loops and 16 minutes of recording time, became essential for Sheeran’s solo performances.
Chewie Monsta Looper
As Sheeran’s career skyrocketed, he collaborated with his guitar tech, Trevor Dawkins, to create the Chewie Monsta Looper. This innovative rig linked four Boss RC-20XLs on one pedalboard, providing Sheeran with enhanced looping capabilities and LCD screens for efficient control.
Chewie II
Continuing the loop pedal evolution, Sheeran introduced the Chewie II Loop Station. This upgraded version retained the features of its predecessor but included additional lights, screens, a memory bank, and extra modes. The Chewie II elevated Sheeran’s live performances, allowing him to navigate intricate arrangements effortlessly.
Conclusion
Ed Sheeran’s journey from a budding artist with a Martin LX1E to a global sensation with a diverse collection of guitars reflects his musical evolution. Ed Sheeran’s unique sound is defined mainly by his carefully chosen and often personalized collection of instruments. Each plays a crucial role in shaping his music, from guitars to other musical tools. As he restarts to explore new musical territories and push boundaries, his collection is a testament to the harmonious relationship between artists and their instruments. Ed Sheeran’s story is not just one of musical success but also a celebration of innovation, passion, and the timeless bond between a musician and his guitars.
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