Tone Profile

Aggressive and fuzzy rhythm guitar tone, characterized by a thick and saturated distortion. It's a quintessential alternative rock sound with a raw, cutting edge.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The 'Zero' guitar tone is built upon layers of distortion and fuzz, likely achieved by stacking multiple gain stages.
• Billy Corgan often blends direct signals with miked amp signals to create a fuller sound.
• The specific cabinet used may influence the final tone considerably.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a Stratocaster-style guitar for its bright and cutting tone.
• Combine a RAT and Big Muff for a complex distortion character; experiment with the order and settings.
• Use a Marshall JCM800 or similar high-gain amp as a foundation for the distortion.
• Blend a direct input signal with the miked amp signal to add clarity and punch.

Recommended Gear

• Fender Stratocaster(guitar)
• Marshall JCM800(amp)
• Shure SM57(mic)
• Pro Co RAT(pedal)
• Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi(pedal)