TONEDB

rhythm guitar from “paper planes” by m.i.a. | ToneDB

paper planes

m.i.a.

rhythm guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

The rhythm guitar has a distinct, slightly detuned, and lo-fi character, providing a simple yet catchy melodic hook that contrasts against the more electronic and sample-based elements in the song.

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Production Credits

Producer: Diplo

Recording Notes

  • The guitar part is relatively simple, focusing on a clean tone with a touch of grit.
  • It's possible that the slight detuning or warble effect was achieved through tape manipulation or a similar technique.
  • The guitar sound might have been re-sampled or processed to fit the overall lo-fi aesthetic of the track.

Recreation Tips

  • Use a Fender Stratocaster or similar single-coil guitar into a Vox AC30-style amp.
  • Aim for a clean amp tone with a slight overdrive to add character.
  • Use a Shure SM57 or similar dynamic microphone to capture the amp sound.
  • Experiment with slight detuning or chorus effects to emulate the warbly quality of the original.

Original Gear

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Substitutions & Recommendations

Squier Classic Vibe '60s StratocasterShop on Reverb$400-$450

Alternative to: Fender Stratocaster

Provides authentic single-coil pickups needed for the clean, slightly gritty tone at a budget-friendly price point

Vox AC15C1Shop on Reverb$650-$750

Alternative to: Vox AC30

Delivers the signature Vox chime and natural breakup characteristics of the AC30 in a more manageable 15-watt format

Universal Audio Vox AC30 pluginPlugin Boutique$150-$200

Alternative to: Vox AC30

Accurately models the AC30's clean-to-edge-of-breakup tones perfect for the lo-fi aesthetic without needing physical amp

Shure SM57Shop on Reverb$100-$120

Alternative to: Shure SM57

The same microphone used on the original recording, still manufactured and ideal for capturing amp character

Chase Bliss Warped Vinyl MkIIShop on Reverb$300-$350

Alternative to: Tape manipulation warble effect

Creates authentic tape-style warble and detuning effects that match the lo-fi character of the original guitar part

Sources

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