Tone Profile

A signature watery, detuned clean tone defined by a lush analog chorus that provides a constant sense of movement. The underlying guitar sound is slightly gritty and dark, sitting just on the edge of breakup without being truly overdriven.

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The entire guitar was tuned down one full step, which is critical to the song's pitch, dark vibe, and string tension.
• The Electro-Harmonix Small Clone is the key ingredient and is always active for this part. Its slightly unpredictable, warbly nature is the defining characteristic.
• Producer Butch Vig recorded the album at Sound City Studios, utilizing their Neve 8028 console, which contributed its own coloration to the signal.
• The main riff is double-tracked (two separate performances are recorded) and panned to create a thick, immersive sound.
• While Kurt also used a Fender Bassman for clean tones, the Mesa/Boogie preamp was reportedly the choice for this track's specific clean-but-gritty texture.

Recreation Tips

• Tune your guitar down to D Standard. This is non-negotiable for an authentic recreation.
• Use the neck pickup of your guitar for a warmer, rounder sound.
• The most crucial element is an analog chorus pedal. An EHX Small Clone is ideal, but any BBD-style chorus with a slow, deep rate will work well.
• Set your amp to a clean channel, but turn the gain/volume up just enough so that it starts to break up slightly when you dig in with the pick.
• If you're recording, play the part twice on two separate tracks and pan them slightly left and right to emulate the double-tracking technique.
• Use a light touch when playing; the riff's magic is in its hypnotic, loping feel, not aggressive picking.

Recommended Gear

• Fender Jaguar or Mustang(guitar)
• Electro-Harmonix Small Clone(pedal)
• Mesa/Boogie Mark Series Amp (or plugin)(amp)
• Fender Twin Reverb(amp)
• Shure SM57(mic)