Riff Tone

Amanda

Boston

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarGibson Les Paul Standard (likely 1968, Tom Scholz's main studio guitar)

AmpScholz Rockman (original rackmount unit, not pedal version)

PickupsGibson PAF-style humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain6

bass6

mid6.5

treble7

reverb4.5

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

No effects used for this tone

Notes

Studio recording, 1984-1986. Tom Scholz is known for using his custom-built Rockman preamp/amp simulator for Boston's 1980s recordings, including 'Amanda.' No evidence of traditional tube amp use for this track. All effects and drive are from the Rockman signal chain. No evidence of live rig or alternate guitars for the riff section.

Tone Character(10)

lush stereo chorussmooth and compressedbright and glassy highstight, controlled low endstudio-polished claritysustained ringing chordsdistinctive Rockman shimmerslight edge-of-breakup crunchno heavy distortionchorused clean with sustain

Difficulty

The riff requires clean, even strumming with precise muting and timing to maintain clarity with the heavy chorus and compression. No advanced techniques, but studio polish and accuracy are essential.

Sources

Tom Scholz answers your questions! | MusicRadar Hallelujah! MXR Rockman X100 pedal | Page 8

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