David Gilmour’s Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi

David started using this pedal in 1974, and ever since then, it has been a key to his sound.

I introduced David to the Electro Harmonix Big Muff Pi in 1974. He liked it, and he has continued to use one ever since. David has tried many of the different incarnations and models over the years, but his original has often been preferred for most things

Phil Taylor, Guitar Player January 2009

He used the pedal on various studio recordings, but most notably on the solo on “Comfortably Numb”.

It think it’s just pretty much him. He is obviously using a couple of effects, like a Big Muff and a delay, but it really is just his fingers, his vibrato, his choice of notes and how he sets his effects. I find it extraordinary when people think they can copy his sound by duplicating his gear. In reality, no matter how well you duplicate the equipment, you will never be able to duplicate the personality.

Interview with Phil Taylor – Guitar World

To read more about this pedal, and learn the history of various different versions that David used, please refer to Gilmourish page David Gilmour’s Big Muffs.