GuitarCleanRiff
On a Plain (Live Acoustic) Riff Guitar Tone Settings — Nirvana
Nirvana · 1990s · rock
live
Original Recording
Guitar
Martin D-18E (1959, modified with Bartolini pickups)
Pickups
Bartolini 3AV acoustic soundhole pickups (neck and bridge positions, both active)
Amp
Fender Twin Reverb (silverface, mic'd for PA)
Pickup Position
Both pickups active (neck + bridge, Martin D-18E toggle in middle position)
Live acoustic performance, MTV Unplugged in New York, November 18, 1993. Guitar is a vintage Martin D-18E with both pickups active, run through a Fender Twin Reverb amp mic'd for the PA. No pedals or effects confirmed for the riff section; all effects are from the amp or PA. Acoustic set, not electric rig.
Amp Settings
Mids5.5
Bass5.5
Gain2.5
Reverb3.5
Treble6.5
Presence5
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Tone Character
- bright and jangly
- clear and percussive
- full-bodied midrange
- natural acoustic resonance
- slightly scooped lows
- articulate high end
- open and airy
- dynamic response to strumming
- subtle room reverb
- no audible overdrive or distortion