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Riff Tone

Beat It

Michael Jackson

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarValley Arts Custom Pro (Steve Lukather's main studio guitar, early 1980s, HSS configuration)
AmpMarshall JCM800 2203 head into Marshall 4x12 cab (studio recording, 1982)

Amp Settings

gain6.5
bass6

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Effects & Signal Chain

Notes

Studio recording, 1982. Steve Lukather played all rhythm/lead parts except the solo. Quincy Jones requested less distortion and use of a 'small amp' for pop radio, but Lukather used a Marshall JCM800 for the main riff. No evidence of pedals or effects for the riff section; distortion from amp. No chorus, delay, or modulation on riff. Solo was played by Eddie Van Halen with different gear.

Tone Character(10)
sharp, percussive attacktight palm-muted chugsBritish crunchscooped midsaggressive but controlledclear note separationpop radio friendly distortionno audible modulation or delayslightly compressedfocused low end

Difficulty

The riff requires intermediate skill due to its fast tempo, tight palm muting, and precise rhythmic accents, but does not involve advanced lead techniques.

This tone has been researched 22 times by the community

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