GuitarDistortedRiff
Can't You Hear Me Knocking Guitar Tone Settings
The Rolling Stones · 1970s · rock
studio
Original Recording
Guitar
Gibson Les Paul Standard (1959 or 1958, likely sunburst, used by Keith Richards)
Pickups
Gibson PAF humbuckers
Amp
Ampeg SVT (studio, as per Stones' 1971 sessions; some sources suggest Fender Twin or Marshall, but Ampeg SVT is most cited for Sticky Fingers era rhythm)
Pickup Position
Neck pickup
Studio recording, 1970 (Sticky Fingers sessions). Keith Richards played the main riff on a Les Paul Standard through an Ampeg SVT head and 8x10 cab, no confirmed pedals. Pickup selector likely on neck for warmth. No evidence of live/tour gear or alternate guitars for the riff section.
Amp Settings
Mids7
Bass6.5
Gain4.5
Reverb2
Treble6.5
Presence5.5
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Tone Character
- warm and smooth
- edge-of-breakup crunch
- fat and punchy
- slightly compressed
- open and dynamic
- classic rock rhythm
- touch-sensitive response
- rich midrange
- not overly distorted
- organic sustain
Sources
Tone Story / Why This Tone Works
studio