Tone Profile

A distorted and slightly compressed alternative rock lead guitar tone with a bright, cutting edge. It has a raw, aggressive character suitable for melodic lines and power chords.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The guitar was likely recorded with a close-miked cabinet.
• Multiple distortion pedals may have been used in conjunction to achieve the desired level of saturation and sustain.
• The blend of fuzz and distortion creates a thick yet articulate tone.
• The raw, aggressive character of the guitar tone is a signature element of the Smashing Pumpkins sound.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a Fender Stratocaster-style guitar into a high-gain amp like the Soldano SLO-100.
• Use a Pro Co RAT and Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi for the core distortion, experimenting with the gain staging between the two.
• Adjust the amp's EQ for a bright, cutting tone that still retains body.
• Use a Shure SM57 close to the speaker cone, slightly off-axis.
• Consider adding a touch of compression in the mix to even out the dynamics and enhance sustain.

Recommended Gear

• Fender Stratocaster(guitar)
• Soldano SLO-100(amp)
• Shure SM57(mic)
• Pro Co RAT(pedal)
• Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi(pedal)