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Riff Tone

Weeping China Doll

Steve Vai

Guitarmetal2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarIbanez Universe Burned Seven-String Electric Guitar
AmpSynergy SYN-2 preamp system with VAI and B-MAN modules (studio recording, 2012 era)

Amp Settings

gain7.5
bass6

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Effects & Signal Chain

Notes

Studio recording for 'Weeping China Doll' (2012, The Story of Light album). Vai specifically states using the Ibanez Universe 7-string for this track. The Synergy SYN-2 preamp system with VAI and B-MAN modules is confirmed for his main distorted tones in this era. No evidence of Axe-FX or Carvin Legacy being used for this specific studio recording.

Tone Character(10)
tight and articulatehigh-gain saturationextended low endbright and cuttingcomplex harmonicspercussive palm-muted chugsclear note separationmodern progressive metal voicingaggressive pick attackfull-bodied, thick distortion

Difficulty

The riff requires advanced 7-string technique, tight palm muting, and precise use of effects (whammy, wah) in sync with complex rhythms, making it highly challenging for most players.

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