rhythm guitar from “man in black” by johnny cash | ToneDB
man in black
johnny cash
rhythm guitar
AI generatedv1.0
Tone Profile
A clean, bright acoustic guitar tone with a slightly compressed and present character, capturing the stark and direct sound emblematic of Johnny Cash's signature style.
Gear
- Martin D-28instrument
- ReverbSweetwater
- Neumann U67microphone
- ReverbSweetwater
- LA-2Acompressor
- ReverbSweetwater
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The Story
Johnny Cash's acoustic guitar on "Man in Black" was recorded at Columbia Recording Studio in Nashville, produced by Don Law. The tone features a Martin D-28 dreadnought captured with close microphone placement and moderate compression applied during mixing. This created the stark, direct sound that became emblematic of Cash's signature style.
Production Credits
Producer: Don Law
Engineer: Frank Jones
Recorded at: Columbia Recording Studio (Nashville, TN)
Signal Chain
Instrument: Martin D-28
Microphone: Neumann U67
Recreation Tips
- Use a dreadnought-style acoustic guitar with bright strings.
- Position a condenser microphone about 6-12 inches from the soundhole.
- Apply moderate compression to the signal to control dynamics and enhance sustain.
- Use a clean preamp to ensure a clear and uncolored signal.
- Consider a slight boost in the high frequencies for added clarity and brightness.
Original Gear
- Martin D-28(guitar)
- Neumann U67(mic)
- LA-2A(compressor)
Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Martin D-28
Current production D-28 maintains the same dreadnought body shape and sitka spruce/rosewood construction that gives Cash's bright, present tone
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Martin D-28
Offers similar bright, articulate dreadnought tone with excellent recording characteristics for this direct acoustic sound
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Neumann U67
Modern Neumann large diaphragm condenser that captures the same clear, present acoustic guitar character as the vintage U67
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: LA-2A compressor
Faithful emulation of the optical compressor used to control dynamics and add sustain to Cash's acoustic tone
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Neumann U67
Budget-friendly large diaphragm tube condenser that captures similar warmth and presence for acoustic recording
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Martin D-28
Budget dreadnought with solid spruce top that provides similar bright, projecting tone for this style
ReverbSweetwaterFrequently Asked Questions
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