Solo Tone

Hitch a Ride

Boston

Guitarrock1970s

Original Gear

Guitar1970s Gibson Les Paul Standard

AmpScholz Rockman prototype (custom preamp, likely Marshall Plexi for power amp section)

PickupsGibson PAF-style humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain6.5

bass6

mid7

treble7

reverb4

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

delayUnknown Analog Delay pedal (model unknown)

chorusUnknown Chorus or Flanger pedal (model unknown)

Notes

Studio recording, 1975-1976. Tom Scholz used a heavily modified signal chain with his own custom preamp (precursor to the Rockman), likely into a Marshall Plexi power amp section. The Les Paul was used for the solo section. Not live gear.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustainsmooth and violin-likeharmonically richtight and focused midscrystal-clear note separationlush stereo spreadslight compressionmodulated ambienceclassic 1970s arena rock leadaudible analog delay repeats

Difficulty

The solo requires advanced control of legato, bends, and vibrato, as well as tight timing for harmonized double-tracked lines. The phrasing and articulation demand a high level of precision.

Sources

Boston...Hitch A Ride | Guitar Forum Examples of Les Paul v Stratocaster contrasting tones Boston's Guitar Sound in 3 Minutes (Tom Scholz)

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