GuitarDistortedRiff
Black Dog Riff Guitar Tone Settings — Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin · 1970s · rock
studio
Original Recording
Guitar
Gibson Les Paul Standard (early 1970s, likely 1959 model)
Pickups
Gibson PAF humbuckers
Amp
Marshall Super Lead 1959 (Plexi, 100-watt, likely with 4x12 cabinet)
Pickup Position
Bridge pickup
Studio recording, 1971. Jimmy Page used his Les Paul Standard through a Marshall Super Lead for the main riff section of 'Black Dog'. No evidence of pedals or effects for the riff; tone is notably dry and direct. Pickup selector likely set to bridge for maximum bite. No fuzz or wah on the riff section.
Amp Settings
Mids7
Bass5.5
Gain5
Reverb1.5
Treble7.5
Presence6
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Tone Character
- dry and biting
- tight and percussive
- mid-forward
- slightly thin
- articulate note separation
- classic British crunch
- aggressive attack
- minimal ambience
- clear bridge pickup presence