John used a Soldano SLO-100 amp during the Mother’s Milk studio sessions, which is where its high-gain tone that the album is known for came from. However, during the album tour, he alternated between a Mesa/Boogie (model unknown) and a Marshall JCM800.
For the album, I played through a Soldano head, which goes to “11.”
Guitar Player (USA), April 1990
The Soldano SLO-100 is known for high-gain tone, making it very popular among the rock guitarists of the era. It was used by guys like Eddie Van Halen, Gary Moore, and most importantly in regard to John – Steve Vai (who was one of John’s main influences back then).
The amp’s ability to “go to 11” is, of course, a playful nod to the movie Spinal Tap.
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