Riff Tone

How to Disappear Completely

Radiohead

Guitarother2000s

Original Gear

GuitarLakewood M14 acoustic

AmpDirect Input (DI) or studio preamp (no evidence of guitar amp used on studio recording)

PickupsPiezo undersaddle pickup (stock Lakewood M14, likely Fishman or similar, but exact model not specified)

Amp Settings

gain0

bass5.5

mid6

treble5.5

reverb7

presence5

Effects & Signal Chain

delayBoss Boss DD-5 Digital Delay

Notes

Studio recording, 1999-2000 (Kid A sessions). The main riff is played by Thom Yorke on a Lakewood M14 acoustic, likely recorded direct or with a high-quality condenser mic, possibly with piezo pickup blended in. No evidence of electric guitar or amp in the main riff section. Effects (notably delay) are added via pedal or post-processing.

Tone Character(10)

lush and ambientdreamy and etherealclear, ringing acoustic chordssoft and atmosphericreverb-drenchedgentle, floating dynamicssubtle delay trailswarm, natural acoustic timbreopen and airy soundstageminimal attack, smooth sustain

Difficulty

The riff is technically straightforward but demands control over dynamics, timing, and a sensitive touch to achieve the song's ethereal, ambient feel.

Sources

How Radiohead redefined the role of guitar on their ...Radiohead – Kid A - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard

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