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Riff Tone
Smooth Criminal
Michael Jackson
Guitarrock1980s
Original Gear
GuitarUnknown (likely session guitar, possibly Fender Stratocaster or similar, but not confirmed for this recording)
AmpUnknown (no sources confirm amp model for studio recording)
Amp Settings
gain4.5
bass6
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Notes
Studio recording, 1987. No direct evidence of guitar/amp model for the riff section. Some sources discuss synths (Roland D-50), but not guitar specifics. No evidence for live rig or pedalboard for this part.
Tone Character(10)
tight and percussivedry and directslightly gritty edgemuted, staccato attackminimal sustainbright and punchynot lush or ambientno audible modulationfocused midrangenot heavily distorted
Difficulty
The riff requires intermediate skill due to its fast tempo, very tight palm muting, and precise rhythmic execution, but does not involve advanced lead techniques or complex chord voicings.
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Create Free AccountGuitarrock1980s
Original Gear
GuitarUnknown (likely session guitar, possibly Fender Stratocaster or similar, but not confirmed for this recording)
AmpUnknown (no sources confirm amp model for studio recording)
Amp Settings
gain4.5
bass6
Create an account to see all tone details
Create Free AccountEffects & Signal Chain
Notes
Studio recording, 1987. No direct evidence of guitar/amp model for the riff section. Some sources discuss synths (Roland D-50), but not guitar specifics. No evidence for live rig or pedalboard for this part.
Tone Character(10)
tight and percussivedry and directslightly gritty edgemuted, staccato attackminimal sustainbright and punchynot lush or ambientno audible modulationfocused midrangenot heavily distorted
Difficulty
The riff requires intermediate skill due to its fast tempo, very tight palm muting, and precise rhythmic execution, but does not involve advanced lead techniques or complex chord voicings.