
Song Rig
Chank
John Scofield · Überjam · 2002
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Funky and gritty with an overdriven semi-hollow character — Scofield's Ibanez AS200 through a slightly overdriven amp produces the "Sco-tone" in its most upfront state. The note attack is sharp with a quick decay that keeps the groove from getting muddy.
Signal Chain
- 1Ibanez AS200 semi-hollow (Super 80 pickups)
- 2Fender Vibrolux or Reverberocket (slightly overdriven)
- 3Electro-Harmonix Q-Tron envelope filter
Amp Settings
Mid-heavy with slight amp breakup — Scofield's signature mid-forward EQ keeps his guitar cutting through dense funk arrangements. He rolls the tone control back on the guitar slightly.
Technique
How to Play It
Funk chord stabs mixed with bluesy single-note lines — Scofield brings a Strat-meets-jazz-guitar flexibility to funk playing that gives his rhythm parts a unique character.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Ibanez AS200 or ES-335 → Blues Junior at 60% volume → EHX Q-Tron or Boss AW-3 auto-wah → tone control on guitar rolled back 30%.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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