Rise Against's signature guitar distortion sound is most likely achieved through the use of an overdrive pedal. Overdrive pedals are designed to saturate the guitar signal, resulting in a warmer, fatter sound with increased sustain. The level of distortion can be controlled by the pedal's "drive" knob, while the "tone" knob can be used to shape the overall sound.
Amp Distortion
Rise Against's guitarists may also be using the distortion built into their amplifiers. Most guitar amps have a built-in distortion channel, which can be activated by the "distortion" or "gain" switch. The distortion channel can provide a more aggressive sound than overdrive pedals, and it can also be used to create a wider variety of distortion tones.
Effects Pedals
In addition to overdrive pedals and amp distortion, Rise Against's guitarists may also be using other effects pedals to shape their sound. Common effects pedals used by guitarists include equalizers, compressors, and chorus pedals. Equalizers can be used to adjust the frequency response of the guitar signal, while compressors can be used to reduce the dynamic range and make the sound more consistent. Chorus pedals can be used to create a thicker, more spacious sound.
Guitar Amp
The guitar amp used by Rise Against's guitarists will also have a significant impact on the sound of their distortion. Different amps have different voicing and distortion characteristics, so it is important to choose an amp that complements the guitar and pedals being used.
Guitar Speaker Cabinet
The speaker cabinet used by Rise Against's guitarists will also affect the sound of their distortion. Different speaker cabinets have different frequency response and resonance characteristics, so it is important to choose a speaker cabinet that complements the amp and guitar being used.
Guitar Strings
The guitar strings used by Rise Against's guitarists can also have an impact on the sound of their distortion. Different strings have different tension and brightness characteristics, so it is important to choose a set of strings that complements the guitar and pedals being used.