Riff Tone

Testify

Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble

Guitarblues1980s

Original Gear

Guitar1962 Fender Stratocaster 'Number One'

Amp1964 Fender Vibroverb (blackface, 2x10" speakers, often paired with a 1959 Fender Bassman in studio)

PickupsFender single-coil (vintage 1960s spec)

Amp Settings

gain5

bass7

mid7

treble6.5

reverb2.5

presence5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveIbanez Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer

Notes

Studio recording, 1982-1983 for the 'Texas Flood' album. SRV often blended the Vibroverb and Bassman in the studio, but the Vibroverb is most associated with the core riff tone on 'Testify'. No evidence of additional amps or effects loop for the riff section.

Tone Character(10)

edge-of-breakup crunchtouch-sensitiveTexas shuffle feelbright and articulatefat, punchy midrangetight low endsinging sustainpercussive and aggressive rhythmwarm, glassy Strat toneslight natural tube compression

Difficulty

The riff is challenging due to its fast tempo, demanding shuffle groove, and the need for precise picking and muting techniques to capture SRV's signature percussive attack and dynamic range.

Sources

Stevie Ray Vaughan's Amplifiers | Equipboard Stevie Ray Vaughan’s amps and effects pedals: an in-depth guide | Guitar World The Tube Screamer that Stevie Ray Vaughan really used | Guitar World 10 Stompboxes That Changed the World - Premier Guitar

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