Riff Tone
How Soon Is Now? (Single Edit)
The Smiths
Guitarrock1980s
Original Gear
GuitarEpiphone Casino
AmpFender Twin Reverb (x4, re-amped in studio)
PickupsEpiphone P-90 single coils
Amp Settings
gain4.5
bass5.5
mid6.5
treble6.5
reverb7
presence5.5
Effects & Signal Chain
tremoloBoss Boss TR-2 Tremolo
Notes
Studio recording, 1984; rhythm riff section re-amped through four Fender Twin Reverbs with tremolo engaged at different speeds for stereo spread. Producer John Porter confirmed Epiphone guitar, Boss tremolo pedal, Fender amp. No evidence of distortion/overdrive pedal; all drive from amp and studio processing.
Tone Character(10)
tremolo-drenchedpulsating and hypnoticlush stereo spreadwarm and roundmoderate crunchsustained chordspercussive attackrich harmonic layeringambient and atmosphericdistinctive rhythmic pulse
Difficulty
The riff requires advanced timing to synchronize with the tremolo effect, precise rhythmic strumming, and the ability to maintain consistent dynamics across layered tracks, making it challenging for most players.
Sources
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Create Free AccountGuitarrock1980s
Original Gear
GuitarEpiphone Casino
AmpFender Twin Reverb (x4, re-amped in studio)
PickupsEpiphone P-90 single coils
Amp Settings
gain4.5
bass5.5
mid6.5
treble6.5
reverb7
presence5.5
Effects & Signal Chain
tremoloBoss Boss TR-2 Tremolo
Notes
Studio recording, 1984; rhythm riff section re-amped through four Fender Twin Reverbs with tremolo engaged at different speeds for stereo spread. Producer John Porter confirmed Epiphone guitar, Boss tremolo pedal, Fender amp. No evidence of distortion/overdrive pedal; all drive from amp and studio processing.
Tone Character(10)
tremolo-drenchedpulsating and hypnoticlush stereo spreadwarm and roundmoderate crunchsustained chordspercussive attackrich harmonic layeringambient and atmosphericdistinctive rhythmic pulse
Difficulty
The riff requires advanced timing to synchronize with the tremolo effect, precise rhythmic strumming, and the ability to maintain consistent dynamics across layered tracks, making it challenging for most players.
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