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rhythm guitar from “adam song” by blink 182 | ToneDB

adam song

blink 182

rhythm guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

The rhythm guitar tone is a high-gain, distorted sound with a bright and cutting edge, perfect for pop-punk power chords. It's tight and focused, providing a solid foundation for the song.

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The Story

Tom DeLonge's rhythm guitar tone on "Adam's Song" was recorded using a Gibson Les Paul through a Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier amplifier, captured with a Shure SM57 microphone. The track was recorded at Signature Sound in San Diego with producer Jerry Finn and features the characteristic high-gain sound that became synonymous with blink-182's pop-punk era.

Production Credits

Producer: Jerry Finn

Engineer: Sean O'Dwyer

Recorded at: Signature Sound, San Diego, CA

Recreation Tips

  • Use a Gibson Les Paul or similar humbucker-equipped guitar.
  • Set the Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier to a high-gain setting with a focus on mid-range frequencies.
  • Place a Shure SM57 close to the speaker cone, slightly off-axis.
  • Double-track the guitar part for added thickness.
  • Use EQ to cut any muddiness and boost the high frequencies for clarity.
  • Apply compression to even out the dynamics and create a tight, punchy sound.

Original Gear

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Substitutions & Recommendations

Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50sShop on Reverb$400-$500

Alternative to: Gibson Les Paul

Provides the essential humbucker pickups for thick, distorted power chords at a budget-friendly price point

Boss MT-2 Metal ZoneShop on Reverb$100-$130

Alternative to: Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier

Delivers the high-gain distortion and aggressive midrange character needed for pop-punk rhythm tones

PRS MT15 Mark TremontiShop on Reverb$700-$800

Alternative to: Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier

15-watt tube head with similar high-gain characteristics and tight low-end response for recording

Neural DSP Fortin Nameless SuitePlugin Boutique$140-$170

Alternative to: Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier

Accurately models high-gain tube amp behavior with built-in cab simulation for direct recording

Shure SM57Shop on Reverb$100-$120

Alternative to: Shure SM57

The exact same microphone used on the original recording, still the industry standard for guitar amps

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

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