Riff Tone

Always

Bon Jovi

Guitarrock1990s

Original Gear

GuitarGibson Les Paul Custom (likely late 80s/early 90s, as used by Richie Sambora in studio for 'Always')

AmpMarshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead Head (100W), 4x12 Marshall cabinet

PickupsHumbuckers (Gibson stock, likely 490R/498T or similar)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass6

mid6.5

treble7

reverb3

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveBoss Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive

chorusUnknown Chorus pedal (model unknown, likely Boss CH-1 or rack chorus)

Notes

Studio recording, 1994. Richie Sambora is documented using a Gibson Les Paul into a Marshall JCM2000 for Bon Jovi's high-gain rhythm tones in this era. No evidence of live/touring substitutions for the studio riff tone. No evidence of alternate guitars for the riff section of 'Always'.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustaintight, focused rhythm crunchrich harmonic overtonesfull-bodied power chordsclear note separation under gainslightly compressed attackarticulate pick responsesmooth, saturated distortionmodern hard rock edgepunchy midrange presence

Difficulty

The riff requires tight rhythm playing with palm muting and dynamic control to maintain clarity under high gain, but does not involve advanced lead techniques or complex chord voicings.

Sources

Richie Sambora's Guitar Gear | Equipboard Access All Areas: On the road with Bon Jovi | MusicRadar

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