Imagine owning a piece of rock history—equipment that once shaped the iconic sound of Led Zeppelin. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: John Paul Jones, the legendary bassist behind Led Zeppelin’s thunderous grooves, is parting ways with a treasure trove of his studio gear. And this isn’t just any sale—it’s a rare chance for fans and collectors to own instruments and tools that helped define his career.
Organized by Soundgas, a UK-based specialist in vintage and exotic music equipment, this auction features items from Jones’s personal collection. Soundgas explains, ‘John remains incredibly active in music—writing, recording, and performing—but he no longer needs this extensive studio setup, much of which he’s owned since new. He believes these tools should find new hands to bring them to life, so they’re being offered without formal provenance, ready to be used as intended.’
Among the highlights is a Guild Thunderbass amplifier, a powerhouse once used by Jones during his time with Them Crooked Vultures. Here’s the twist: after being loaned out and left at Dave Grohl’s house, the amp was returned to Jones with its speakers blown. And this is the part most people miss: despite its condition, this untested relic is expected to fetch between £1,200 and £1,400. Talk about the enduring value of rock history!
But that’s not all. The auction also includes a diverse array of gear, such as rack-mounted equipment, AKAI digital samplers, classic Yamaha NS-10M speakers, and a rare Simmons SDS V electronic drum kit. For the true connoisseurs, there’s an even rarer find: a 1960s Arbiter Soundimension mechanical echo unit, currently priced at £4,817.58.
Here’s the controversial bit: While these items hail from Jones’s private studio, Soundgas confirms they were not used by Led Zeppelin. Does that make them less valuable, or does their connection to Jones’s solo work and collaborations elevate their significance? We’ll leave that debate to you.
Whether you’re a collector, musician, or simply a fan of rock’s golden era, this auction is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. What would you do with a piece of John Paul Jones’s legacy? Let us know in the comments—we’re curious to hear your thoughts!
