Solo Tone

Stranger in a Strange Land (2015 Remaster)

Iron Maiden

Guitarmetal1980s

Original Gear

GuitarJackson Adrian Smith Signature San Dimas DK

AmpMarshall JCM800 2203 head into Marshall 1960A 4x12 cabinet

PickupsJackson/DiMarzio Super Distortion humbucker (bridge position)

Amp Settings

gain7.5

bass6

mid7

treble7

reverb2.5

presence5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

delayBoss Boss DD-2 or DD-3 Digital Delay (model not confirmed)

chorusUnknown Chorus pedal (model unknown, likely Boss CE-3 or rack chorus)

overdriveBoss Boss SD-1 Super OverDrive

Notes

Studio recording, 1986 (album: Somewhere in Time). Adrian Smith solo section. Gear confirmed for this era and album; Jackson San Dimas DK with humbucker used for solos. No evidence of live/touring substitutions. Pedals and effects based on studio use and audible effects in the solo.

Tone Character(10)

smooth and singing sustainbright and articulate top endclassic British midrange punchfull bottom end without boominessnot harshscooped (low lows, high highs)chorused shimmersubtle delay trailstight and percussive attackexpressive phrasing

Difficulty

The solo requires advanced technique, including fast picking, expressive bends, and precise timing, making it challenging for most intermediate players.

Sources

Iron Maiden Amp Settings (gear and tone tips) - Guitar Chalk How to recognize Iron Maiden's guitarists? : r/Metal - Reddit The Somewhere In Time Guitar Solo Guide : r/ironmaiden - Reddit

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