So... I could name a bunch of guitarists with good tone... but none of that really matters.

So, I thought.... what about MY tone? I like the tone I get most of the time and if I don't, I make the adjustments to get it right.

I like a crunchy but smooth kind of tone.

I think this sample is one of my personal favorites. Kinda on the gritty side in a sweet way.

Ought to count for something in the solo which starts at 2:29 into the video.

It was straight guitar into my POD2 by Line 6 IIRC. Normally I don't like to use any FX stomp boxes but here recently I have become a convert to a certain smooth booster.... but this one was straight to the POD from my 69 SG.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.