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Can't You Hear Me Knocking — The Rolling Stones1 / 2
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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

Mids
7
Bass
6.5
Gain
4.5
Reverb
2
Treble
6.5
Presence
5.5

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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

Notes & Caveats

  • ⚠️No direct numeric amp settings found in sources; settings estimated based on typical Ampeg SVT usage for classic rock rhythm in 1970s studio context.
  • ⚠️Some sources mention Fender Twin or Marshall, but Ampeg SVT is most consistently cited for Sticky Fingers rhythm tracks.
  • ⚠️No evidence of pedals or effects used on the riff section; all effects fields reflect this.
  • ⚠️Pickup selector inferred from Premier Guitar and multiple forum discussions recommending neck pickup for warmth.
  • ⚠️If alternate amp/guitar info is found, update accordingly.
  • ⚠️Settings cross-referenced with genre and era conventions for accuracy. Keith Richards used a Telecaster into a cranked British amp (likely an Ampeg or Marshall) for this era, favoring edge-of-breakup with strong mids and moderate treble for punchy, open classic rock tones. The recording is dry with just a touch of room, and the tone is mid-forward, not overly bright or scooped.

Sources