Tone Profile

A high-gain, aggressive hard rock guitar tone with a bright edge and plenty of sustain. It's characterized by its articulate pick attack and harmonically rich distortion.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• Randy Rhoads was known for using a combination of humbucker-equipped guitars, particularly Charvels, and high-gain Marshall amplifiers.
• The MXR Distortion + was used to push the amp into further overdrive, creating a searing lead tone.
• A Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble may have been used to add some width and dimension to the guitar sound.
• The signal was likely captured with a Shure SM57 close-mic'd to the cabinet.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a guitar equipped with humbucker pickups.
• Use a Marshall-style amp or amp simulator and dial in a high-gain tone with a focus on the upper mids.
• Add an overdrive pedal like the MXR Distortion + to further saturate the signal.
• Experiment with a chorus pedal for added depth, but use it subtly.
• Use a dynamic microphone like the Shure SM57 placed close to the speaker cone.

Recommended Gear

• Charvel Guitars(guitar)
• Marshall 1959 Super Lead(amp)
• Shure SM57(mic)
• MXR Distortion +(pedal)
• Boss CE-1(pedal)