GuitarCleanRiff
Free Fallin' Riff Guitar Tone Settings — Tom Petty
Tom Petty · 1980s · rock
studio
Original Recording
Guitar
Rickenbacker 360/12 (12-string electric)
Pickups
Rickenbacker single-coil pickups
Amp
Fender Twin Reverb (blackface, mid-1960s)
Pickup Position
Middle position (both pickups on Rickenbacker 360/12)
Studio recording, 1988. Mike Campbell played the main riff on a Rickenbacker 12-string through a Fender Twin Reverb. No evidence of pedals or additional effects beyond amp reverb for the riff section. All gear confirmed for this specific song/section, not live or other eras.
Amp Settings
Mids6
Bass5.5
Gain0
Reverb4
Treble7
Presence5.5
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Tone Character
- chiming and jangly
- bright and articulate
- clean and shimmering
- open and airy
- classic Rickenbacker sparkle
- clear note separation
- lush, layered texture
- gentle amp reverb
- studio clarity
- no audible overdrive