Real AmpTuning: Eb StandardPickup: NeckMost AccurateAmbientAlternative Rock
Anti-Pedal Dream Build — Delay Swells & Improvised Outro
Rivers Cuomo says the Blue Album went straight into the amp and that its only effect was a little delay on the swells in “Only in Dreams.” Ric Ocasek encouraged the long improvised outro solo, so the preset keeps one direct Mesa/Boogie voice and adds delay only where documented; knob settings are approximated. Source: Premier Guitar’s “Rivers Cuomo’s Anti-Pedal Approach to Only in Dreams” (2023).
Signal Chain
Fender Jaguar borrowed from Ric Ocasek→Vintage Mesa/Boogie Mark I — clean setting→Marshall 4x12→Studio Delay→Output
GuitarFender Jaguar borrowed from Ric Ocasek
Tone
8
PickupNeck
TuningEb Standard
Volume
8
AmpVintage Mesa/Boogie Mark I — clean setting
Bass
5
Gain
3
Mids
6
Master
6.5
Treble
6
Presence
4.5
Cab / IRMarshall 4x12
MicDynamic + room mic
Mic PositionClose off-axis with low room blend
EffectStudio Delay
Mix
2.5
Time420 ms
Feedback
2
Notes
Start cleaner and quieter than expected, then add intensity through pick attack, layers, and feedback. Keep the delay low in the mix so the long build remains articulate.
Don't have this gear?
See the same signal chain mapped to another platform. Knob values carry over as starting points — gain ranges differ between platforms.