Tone Profile

A bright, biting, and slightly compressed guitar tone with a single-coil bite, ideal for funk-rock rhythms and lead lines. The sound is both aggressive and articulate.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The guitar was likely recorded with a close-miked cabinet to capture the direct sound.
• Compression was key to achieving the tight, punchy rhythm tone and sustain during lead sections.
• Prince often blended direct signals with miked amp signals to add clarity and punch.
• The Hohner Madcat's distinct tone contributes to the unique character of the sound.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a Hohner Madcat or similar single-coil guitar.
• Use a Mesa/Boogie Mark II amp or modeling amp with similar EQ settings (bright, present mids).
• Apply moderate compression to even out the dynamics and add sustain.
• Experiment with blending a DI signal with the amp signal for added clarity.

Recommended Gear

• Hohner Madcat(guitar)
• Mesa/Boogie Mark II(amp)
• Shure SM57(mic)
• MXR Dyna Comp(pedal)