How to Dial In "Hard Times" by AC/DC - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Hard Times"
Suggested rig · the original isn't documented.
Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
On your amp, these numbers won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
From Rock or Bust (2014). A slow, swaggering, blues-based rocker with a loose open-chord riff and a bluesy solo. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so a Gibson Angus Young Signature SG through a Marshall 1959SLP Plexi Super Lead Reissue stands in. Use the bridge pickup and set the amp for a moderate crunch. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Hard Times" Tone
What guitar did AC/DC use on "Hard Times"?
The guitar on "Hard Times" (released 2014) isn't documented; the Gibson Angus Young Signature SG above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Hard Times" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 5, Bass 5, Mid 6.5, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, Volume 8. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale; match them on your amp first, then nudge to taste. ToneMirror can translate these positions for whatever amp you actually own.
Can I play "Hard Times" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Hard Times" tone on a Katana, a Helix, a tube combo, or anything else. The translation accounts for EQ curve, gain structure, and pickup type so the result actually sounds like the record, not just the same knob numbers on different gear.
More Tones You Can Dial In
Tone references for "Hard Times" by AC/DC are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.