Riff Tone

Back In Black

AC/DC

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarGibson SG Standard (1970s, likely '69-'73, stock humbuckers)

AmpMarshall 1959 Super Lead 100-watt Plexi (1970s, 4-input, non-master volume, into Marshall 4x12 cabinet with Celestion G12M Greenback speakers)

PickupsGibson humbuckers (stock, likely T-Top or patent sticker)

Amp Settings

gain4

bass4

mid7.5

treble4.5

reverb0

presence5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

boostSchaffer-Vega Schaffer-Vega Diversity System (wireless transmitter/receiver with boost/compression)

Notes

Studio recording, 1980. Angus Young plugged straight into the amp with no pedals, but used a Schaffer-Vega Diversity System wireless unit for boost and slight compression. No effects loop or additional pedals. Settings and gear are for the original studio recording, not live. Pickup selector set to bridge for main riff.

Tone Character(10)

classic Marshall crunchtight and percussive attackclear, biting top endstrong midrange presencedynamic, touch-sensitive responseraw, uncompressed feelminimal gain, amp breakupno pedal colorationarticulate chord definitionopen, unprocessed sound

Difficulty

The riff requires intermediate skill due to its syncopated rhythm, dynamic muting, and the need for tight, consistent timing to achieve the iconic groove.

Sources

Gear And Settings Used In AC/DC's Iconic 'Back in Black'AC/DC – Back In Black - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard Angus Young's guitars and gear: nail the AC/DC star's tone | Guitar World Iconic Guitar Tones: AC/DC's "Back in Black" - InSync

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