I dunno about any of this. I've never tried to copy anyone else's tone. If you asked me before today if I have a tone and always sound like me, I'd have answered, "Yes, it's probably identifiable as me."
Then in response to this thread I decided to listen to three tracks I did that I could find easily on the internet. They all sound different, I think. Even the amps and guitars sound different,
and you can hear the differences.
These are all original tracks, written by yours truly, and I wasn't trying to copy anyone's tone. In fact, no one told me what to play, or what gear to use.
Here's a track where I played two guitars through the same amp (DG30), same day, same tune, same settings; the first is a Soapbar 594, the second is a humbucker 594. To me, these two guitars obviously sound different, and have different tones, even though my phrasing and style are the exact same.
Here's another track I've posted before; this one's on Motor Trend's website. Again, different guitar (Artist V) and HXDA.
Sound like the previous one? I don't think so, but see if you agree (the track switches from orchestral to rock about 40 seconds in):
Yet another track I did. This one's HXDA, and a different guitar (PS 20th) from the other two. The effects are a little different. I don't think I sound much like I did in the first track (In addition to the rhythm part, there's a solo at 2:00 or so, and again, it's nothing like the other tracks):
So if you want my opinion...
The idea that one always has the same tone is a load of doo-doo, unless one always plays very similar guitars, styles and amps - which a lot of so-called guitar heroes do (same bands, same styles, replicate the initial success, etc.).
However, there is a certain phrasing and feel I can identify as my style.
Bottom line:
I bought different amps and guitars
because I sound different on them. That was the whole point! I don't buy this stuff to hang on a wall as decor, losers!
Do I always have the same tone?
I don't think so. Certainly not on these recordings, all done by me in my own studio, and probably using the same mic.
Do I always sound like the same player? Maybe. Depends.