Riff Tone

Ask the Lonely (2024 Remaster)

Journey

Guitarrock2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarPRS NS-15 Neal Schon Signature Model

AmpBlackstar Series One 100

PickupsSeymour Duncan Custom Custom humbucker (bridge), Fernandes Sustainer (neck, not used for riff)

Amp Settings

gain6

bass6

mid7

treble7

reverb3

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

boostXotic Xotic AC Booster

compressionBoss Boss Compressor Sustainer (likely CS-3)

Notes

Studio recording, 2024 remaster. Guitar and amp confirmed by Premier Guitar Rig Rundown and Equipboard for current Journey studio/live use. PRS NS-15 with Floyd Rose, bridge humbucker for riff. No evidence of vintage Les Paul or Randall/Marshall for this modern recording. No evidence of amp modelers or digital-only rigs for this track.

Tone Character(10)

tight and articulatepunchy midrangeclear note separationmoderate sustaindynamic attackslight compressionharmonic richnesscreamy but not saturatedclassic arena rock rhythmnot overly scooped

Difficulty

The riff requires tight, punchy rhythm playing with palm muting and dynamic accents, but does not involve advanced lead techniques or complex chord voicings.

Sources

Rig Rundown - Journey's Neal Schon - Premier Guitar Neal Schon's Guitar Gear, Pedalboard & Amps

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