Distorted Tone

Smooth Criminal (2026 Remastered)

Alien Ant Farm

Bassrock2000s

Original Gear

BassFender Tye Zamora Signature 6-string bass prototype

AmpAmpeg SVT Classic (studio, likely with 8x10 cab)

PickupsDual humbuckers (likely custom-wound, soapbar style)

Amp Settings

gain6.5

bass6

mid6.5

treble7

presence6

compression5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

preampTech 21 Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI (likely, not confirmed for this session)

Notes

Studio recording, 2001 (original), 2026 Remastered likely uses same or similar DI/amp blend; Tye Zamora is credited for bass on the track.

Tone Character(10)

aggressive pick attackclanky upper midstight low endslightly scooped midsnoticeable grit and drivemodern rock punchclear note definitiongrowly midrangecompressed sustainpresent high end

Difficulty

The part requires fast, consistent pick playing with tight muting and precise rhythmic accents to maintain the aggressive, punchy tone and drive of the song.

Sources

Alien Ant Farm Members, Gear & Sound Tye Zamora (alien ant farm)Amp Settings for Smooth Criminal by Alien Ant Farm (gear and tone tips)

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