Solo Tone

Pull Me Under

Dream Theater

Guitarmetal1990s

Original Gear

GuitarErnie Ball Music Man John Petrucci Signature (likely JP6, 1991-1992 model, basswood body, rosewood fretboard)

AmpMesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ (studio recording, confirmed for solos on Images and Words era)

PickupsDiMarzio Steve's Special (bridge), DiMarzio Air Norton (neck), both humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain7.5

bass6

mid5.5

treble7

reverb2

presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown)

chorusUnknown Chorus pedal (model unknown)

Notes

Studio recording for 'Pull Me Under' solo (1991-1992). Petrucci used his Ernie Ball Music Man signature guitar with DiMarzio humbuckers and a Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ amp for the solo. No evidence of other guitars or amps used for this specific solo. Effects are inferred from audio and era-typical rig, as no direct pedalboard photo or session sheet is available.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustainliquid and smooth lead tonetight low endarticulate pick attackrich harmonic overtonesslight ambient delayclear note separationfast legato and alternate picking claritymoderate compressionslightly scooped mids

Difficulty

This solo is considered expert-level due to its combination of high-speed alternate picking, advanced legato, sweep picking, tapping, and demanding phrasing, all requiring precise technique and control.