Riff Tone

Caught Somewhere in Time (2015 Remaster)

Iron Maiden

Guitarmetal1980s

Original Gear

GuitarJackson Adrian Smith Signature San Dimas DK (likely maple fretboard, as used by Adrian Smith on Somewhere in Time sessions)

AmpGallien-Krueger 250ML

PickupsDiMarzio Super Distortion humbucker (bridge position, as per Adrian Smith's typical setup for this era and model)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass5.5

mid6

treble7.5

reverb4

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

chorusUnknown Chorus pedal (model unknown)

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown)

reverbUnknown Reverb pedal or rack effect (model unknown)

Notes

Studio recording, 1986 (album: Somewhere in Time, 2015 Remaster). Both Adrian Smith and Dave Murray used the Gallien-Krueger 250ML for the album's distinctive tones. Guitar model inferred from Adrian Smith's main studio guitar for this album. Pickup model inferred from known specs of his Jackson at the time. No evidence of live/tour gear being used for the studio recording.

Tone Character(10)

shimmering modulationtight and percussive rhythmbright and articulate attackhigh-gain saturationmetallic, futuristic soundchorus and delay are prominentclear note separationlush spatial ambiencecrisp pick attacksustained, singing chords

Difficulty

The riff requires fast alternate picking, precise palm muting, and tight synchronization with delay and chorus effects, making it challenging for most intermediate players.

Sources

Iron Maiden – Somewhere in Time (2015 Remaster) - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard Somewhere in time guitar tone : r/ironmaiden - Reddit

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