How Soon Is Now? (12" Version) Guitar Tone Settings — The Smiths
The Smiths · 1980s · rock
studio
Original Recording
Studio recording, 1984 (released 1985). Rhythm riff section was recorded with a Les Paul Standard into DI, then re-amped through four Fender Twin Reverbs with synchronized tremolo. Producer John Porter and Johnny Marr each controlled two amps for stereo spread. Some sources mention initial tracking with a Roland Jazz Chorus and DI, but the iconic tremolo rhythm is the result of the Twin Reverb re-amp. No evidence of live rig or alternate guitars for THIS riff section.
Amp Settings
Effects Chain
- Boss TR-2 Tremolo (or similar, possibly custom or studio rack tremolo) · tremolo
Gibson Les Paul Standard (coil-tapped bridge pickup) → DI → re-amped through four Fender Twin Reverbs (all with tremolo and spring reverb engaged, stereo panned, some tracks possibly with Boss TR-2 Tremolo in front)
Tone Matcher
Match This Tone to Your Gear
Tell us your guitar and amp — we’ll calculate the exact settings translated to your specific rig.
7-day free trial · Cancel anytime.
Tone Character
- pulsating and hypnotic
- rich, shimmering sustain
- stereo, bouncing tremolo pattern
- percussive, chime-like attack
- lush, modulated texture
- slightly overdriven clean tone
- ambient, swirling soundscape
- distinctive rhythmic pulse
- deep tremolo depth
- studio-crafted, multi-amp layering