The Killers
Hot Fuss · 2004
Amp settings (as recorded)
The recording
The song was recorded at The Hearse in Berkeley, CA and Cornerstone Recording Studios in Los Angeles, CA. Produced by Jeff Saltzman and The Killers, the riff is noted for being a tight, heavily processed blend of Dave Keuning's guitar and electronic synthesizer layers (often Access Virus or Korg synths) programmed by band members to achieve the song's dance-rock, new wave sound.
Tuning
Eb StandardRecording Signal Chain · 5 items
Ibanez Destroyer
Ibanez
Primary recorded guitar
Used by Dave Keuning on the Hot Fuss record.
TS9 Tube Screamer
Ibanez
Overdrive
Keeley-modded variants were frequently used by Keuning.
Phase 100
MXR
Phaser
Adds the characteristic swirl to the riff.
Big Muff Pi
Electro-Harmonix
Fuzz
Provides the distorted, thickened texture.
Hot Rod DeVille 212
Fender
Amplification
Keuning's go-to studio and live amplifier.
Tone Characteristics
ToneTwin