Riff Tone

Lady Madonna

The Beatles

Guitarrock1960s

Original Gear

Guitar1964 Gibson SG Standard

AmpVox AC30 (likely) or Vox Conqueror (possible, but less likely for this track)

PickupsGibson PAF humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain3.5

bass6

mid7

treble6.5

reverb0

presence5

Effects & Signal Chain

No effects used for this tone

Notes

Studio recording, 1968. George Harrison is seen playing a Gibson SG in the 'Lady Madonna' video. The Beatles primarily used Vox AC30s in this era, but also had access to Vox Conqueror amps. No evidence of live performance gear for this song's riff section.

Tone Character(10)

bright and punchyslightly gritty edge-of-breakuppercussive attackclear note separationarticulate and focusedtight low endupper-mid presenceminimal sustainclassic British amp chimeno audible effects

Difficulty

The riff requires tight rhythmic accuracy and clean articulation, but uses straightforward chord shapes and moderate tempo, making it accessible to intermediate players.

Sources

George Harrison's Guitar Gear, Pedalboard & Amps | Equipboard The Beatles – Rubber Soul (Remastered 2009) - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard

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