Riff Tone

New World Man

Rush

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarFender Stratocaster (1981-82, likely 1977 model with DiMarzio FS-1 bridge pickup)

AmpMarshall 50-watt head (likely JMP or JCM800) into Marshall 4x12 cabinet

PickupsDiMarzio FS-1 single coil (bridge position), stock Fender single coils (neck/middle)

Amp Settings

gain5

bass6

mid7

treble7

reverb2

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

chorusUnknown Chorus pedal (model unknown, likely Boss CE-1 or Electro-Harmonix Electric Mistress)

compressionUnknown Compression pedal (model unknown, possibly MXR Dyna Comp or studio rack compression)

Notes

Studio recording, 1982. Lifeson used a Stratocaster with a DiMarzio FS-1 in the bridge for much of Signals, including 'New World Man.' Marshall 50-watt head was his main amp for this era. Effects were added via pedals and rack units. No evidence of Hughes & Kettner or digital/modeling gear for this album. Live rigs and later digital setups do not apply.

Tone Character(10)

bright and articulatechorus shimmertight and percussiveslightly compressedclear note separationdynamic and punchynot heavily saturatedmodulation swirl80s new wave/rock fusioncutting rhythm presence

Difficulty

The riff requires tight, syncopated playing with clean muting and dynamic control, especially to maintain clarity with chorus modulation. The rhythm is intricate and demands precise timing with the drums and bass.

Sources

Interview: Rush's Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee - Premier Guitar Alex Lifeson's Guitar Gear, Pedalboard & Amps | Equipboard Alex Lifeson Isolated Guitar from the Synth-era : r/rush

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