GuitarDistortedRiff80% confidence
Shine Riff Guitar Tone Settings — Collective Soul
Collective Soul · 1990s · rock
studio
Original Recording
Guitar
Rickenbacker 360 (exact model not 100% confirmed, but cited by Ed Roland as likely used on original recording)
Pickups
Rickenbacker Hi-Gain single coils
Amp
Ensoniq DP/4 rack processor (used as amp/effects unit, not a traditional guitar amp); no evidence of a traditional amp on the original studio recording
Pickup Position
Bridge pickup
Studio recording, 1993. Ed Roland stated the main riff was recorded with a Rickenbacker guitar through an Ensoniq DP/4 rack unit. No evidence of traditional amp or pedal use on the original studio track. Later live versions use PRS or Yamaha guitars and traditional amps, but these are not relevant for the original studio riff.
Amp Settings
Mids6
Bass6
Gain6
Reverb3.5
Treble6.5
Presence5.5
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Tone Character
- chunky and percussive
- tight low end
- focused mids
- slightly compressed
- amp-like crunch
- clear note separation
- processed studio edge
- not fizzy or scooped
- distinctive filtered attack
- no audible modulation or delay
Notes & Caveats
- No numeric amp or pedal settings are available for the original studio recording; settings estimated based on genre, era, and typical rack processor/amp modeling practices.
- Guitar and effects chain for the original studio riff are confirmed only by Ed Roland's recollection; no photo or session sheet evidence.
- No evidence of traditional amp or pedal use on the original studio recording; all effects and amp simulation likely from Ensoniq DP/4.
- Live versions use different gear (PRS, Yamaha, Fender amps, etc.)—not relevant for original studio riff.
- No audible modulation, delay, or time-based effects on the riff; only amp-like crunch and possible light rack compression/reverb.
- Settings cross-referenced with genre and era conventions for accuracy. Collective Soul's 'Shine' riff features a thick, crunchy, mid-forward 90s alt-rock tone with moderate gain, solid low end, and clear but not harsh highs. Ed Roland typically used Les Pauls into Marshall-style amps with settings that emphasize punchy mids and a balanced EQ, with subtle reverb for space.