Riff Tone

Breaking the Chains

Dokken

Guitarmetal1980s

Original Gear

GuitarESP M-1 (early 80s, custom, single humbucker configuration)

AmpRandall RG80-112SC 2-Channel 80-Watt 1x12" Solid State Guitar Combo

PickupsSeymour Duncan Distortion humbucker (bridge position, likely SH-6)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass6.5

mid5.5

treble7

reverb1.5

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

chorusBoss Boss CE-3 Chorus

Notes

Studio recording, 1981-1982. George Lynch used the Randall RG80-112SC combo for the 'Breaking the Chains' album. Guitar was an ESP M-1 with a single Seymour Duncan Distortion humbucker in the bridge. Boss CE-3 Chorus pedal was used live and possibly in studio. No evidence of boost or overdrive pedals for the riff section. Settings and effects are for the studio rhythm/riff tone, not solo. No evidence of effects loop use.

Tone Character(10)

tight and percussiveaggressive bridge pickup attackcrisp high-end sizzlefocused midrange punchsolid-state amp clarity80s LA metal crunchslightly scooped midsmodest amp reverb for spacechorus shimmer (subtle, always on)punchy palm-muted rhythm

Difficulty

The riff requires solid palm muting, precise timing, and fast alternate picking typical of early 80s metal, but does not involve advanced techniques or extreme speed.

Sources

George Lynch's Guitars, Gear & Pedals | Equipboard Learn 5 George Lynch licks that demonstrate why the Dokken shredder really is Mr Scary | Guitar World

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