Tone Profile

The lead guitar tone is characterized by a thick, slightly fuzzy, and aggressive sound with a noticeable midrange emphasis, perfect for playing heavy riffs and solos. It’s a raw and powerful sound that cuts through the mix.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• Tony Iommi's guitar sound on "Paranoid" is a result of his Gibson SG plugged into a Laney amp. The recording would have involved careful mic placement to capture the amp's raw power and distinct midrange.
• Iommi famously used light-gauge strings, which contributed to his unique playing style and tone.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a Gibson SG-style guitar and a Laney amp or a similar high-gain amplifier.
• Dial in a good amount of gain, focusing on a thick, fuzzy tone without excessive distortion.
• Adjust the EQ for a pronounced midrange to help the guitar cut through the mix.
• Experiment with mic placement to capture the amp's tone accurately. Try placing a microphone slightly off-axis to reduce harshness.
• Use light-gauge strings to emulate Iommi's playing style and tone.

Recommended Gear

• Gibson SG(guitar)
• Laney LA100BL(amp)
• AKG C414(mic)