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HomeInterviewsTone TalkTone Talk with Yasi Hofer: "Tone is mainly in the fingers."

Tone Talk with Yasi Hofer: “Tone is mainly in the fingers.”

In this interview, readers can learn about Yasi Hofer's journey as a guitarist, her gear preferences, tone philosophy, practice routines, and advice for aspiring musicians in the industry.

I am Yasi Hofer, guitar-player and songwriter form Germany. I started playing guitar when I was 12 years old and getting introduced to Steve Vai’s music sparked a big passion for me. I played guitar all day long trying to conquer the music of guitar virtuoso Steve Vai. He discovered me when I was a 14 year old girl and invited me up on stage on one of his shows. That was the beginning of my career.

Studying music in Germany and later on at Berklee College of Music, I crafted my knowledge and with that produced my first record. Now I am celebrating 10 years of touring with my band and having for albums released. Next to that, I play wth Germany’s most successful artist Helene Fischer, playing big arenas and stadiums. My latest highlight was joining Robbie Williams on stage.

What is your definition of tone, and how has it changed over the years?

To me, tone is mainly in the fingers when it comes to guitar players. On top of that it’s a mixture of the guitar, the strings, the amp, and all effects of course. But to me, I can pick up any guitar and go through a lot of amps and still mainly sound like myself. I am not a big fan of digital effects and, for me, my goal is to sound as good as possible with as little effects and soundscapes as possible. At home, I plug straight into my amp, one channel, and I play all dynamics with my fingers and the volume knob on the guitar.

Which guitars, amps, and pedals are you currently using and why?

I play mainly Ibanez AZ guitars. To me, they have the perfect neck. It’s not as thin as an RG and has more body to it for what I need for my music and also most other artists I play with. It gives me the Strat vibes and is very versatile. My main amp is the Calvin Legacy, which I have been using for over 15 years, and I love it. It has this really warm, creamy sound and reacts really dynamic to my playing. On my pedalboard, I have a Strymon Delay, an MRX phaser, which I use on some solo adventures in my music, an EarthQuaker Warden Compressor that I will use to add some extra sustain sometimes when the location doesn’t allow me to turn up the amp, a chorus pedal from EarthQuaker to give me more room on ballads, and a pedal that is always on and makes the whole sound better, is the Xotic EP Booster.

What about strings?

I play Elixir OPTIWEB Strings. I love the coated strings and the feel of the OPTIWEB. I can play quite a few more shows with the Elixir Strings than with any others, and they don’t feel or sound rusty. On most guitars, I use 9 to 42. On some, 10 to 46, depending on what music and guitar. At the moment, I am actually trying the mix of 9 to 46, and it feels really good.

woman playing electric guitar onstage
Photo by Ralf Schuck

Are there certain recording techniques you prefer in the studio?

I like to record having the right sound when hitting the record button. I am not a big fan of having to work on finding the right sound after recording. So, I put a lot of work and details into getting my sound right and then record. I have this analog Neve outboard that I love for recording guitars, and I will have two mics going through that and a third one that goes directly into my DAW. It has been proven to be a great fit for me on my last album.

How do you keep your sound consistent onstage?

As I do not use a lot of effects, and having used the Calvin Amp for 15 years, I know my equipment really well and get it to work and sound good in almost every situation. I know how to work with buzzing and things that might be a surprising but annoying habit in certain locations. It’s all about experience when it comes to consistency.

What does your practice consist of?

Back in the day, I had a 10-hour plan written out, but those days are long gone. These days, I can call myself lucky if I still get to practice. Most of the time, I have certain things to prepare that will be my practice time or keep fit on my music, as that is quite demanding. And in my free time, I actually write new music, and when I come up with things I can’t play, I will work on that.

Favorite guitar riff or lick that inspired you to play guitar?

“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor

What is your advice for young women who hope to work in the music industry?

Don’t be scared, and don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do or make it. If you’re passionate and eager about music and strive for your dreams, everything will be possible. Be brave and self-confident, and know that you can do it.

Connect with Yasi Hofer

INSTAGRAM  |  YOUTUBE  |  WEBSITE

GGM Staff

The writers at Guitar Girl Magazine bring a wealth of experience from all corners of the music industry. Our writers are musicians, songwriters, producers, and passionate advocates for women in music, with years of hands-on expertise both on stage and behind the scenes. They are dedicated to amplifying the voices of female guitarists and offering insightful perspectives on gear, technique, and the latest trends in the industry. With a deep love for music and a commitment to empowering the next generation of female artists, the Guitar Girl team is at the forefront of celebrating and inspiring women in music.

GGM Staff
GGM Staff
The writers at Guitar Girl Magazine bring a wealth of experience from all corners of the music industry. Our writers are musicians, songwriters, producers, and passionate advocates for women in music, with years of hands-on expertise both on stage and behind the scenes. They are dedicated to amplifying the voices of female guitarists and offering insightful perspectives on gear, technique, and the latest trends in the industry. With a deep love for music and a commitment to empowering the next generation of female artists, the Guitar Girl team is at the forefront of celebrating and inspiring women in music.
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