ToneAdapt

Loading...

We've updated our Privacy Policy.Read the changes
Back to Community

Riff Tone

Optimistic

Radiohead

Guitarrock2000s

Original Gear

GuitarFender Eric Clapton Stratocaster (with Lace Sensor pickups and Fernandes Sustainer installed)
AmpVox AC30 (likely, based on era and typical Radiohead studio use; no explicit source for studio amp on 'Optimistic')

Amp Settings

gain5
bass6

Create an account to see all tone details

Create Free Account

Effects & Signal Chain

Notes

Studio recording, year 1999-2000 (Kid A sessions). Guitar World confirms Clapton Strat with Lace Sensors and Fernandes Sustainer was used for this era. No explicit amp model for 'Optimistic' studio session, but Vox AC30 is most probable based on band history and sound. No explicit pickup selector position found.

Tone Character(10)
tight and punchy rhythm guitarclear, articulate attackslightly compressed, focused midrangemodulated shimmer from flangeredge-of-breakup crunchdynamic, percussive pickingbright but not harsh top endfull-bodied chord voicingscontrolled sustainslight room ambience

Difficulty

The riff requires tight, percussive picking in Drop D, with dynamic control to maintain clarity through crunch and modulation. The syncopated rhythm and need for precise timing with the flanger effect add to the challenge.

Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear

Create Free Account