How to Dial In "Passing Complexion" by Big Black - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Passing Complexion"
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 Atomizer (1986). Atomizer is the debut full-length album by American punk rock group Big Black released on May 7, 1986. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Fender Player Telecaster through a Fender Pro Reverb, the rig we use for Big Black's other songs from Atomizer, stands in. Set the amp to a driven, high-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Passing Complexion" Tone
What guitar did Big Black use on "Passing Complexion"?
The guitar on "Passing Complexion" (released 1986) isn't documented; the Fender Player Telecaster above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Passing Complexion" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 8, Bass 4.5, Mid 4, Treble 7.5, Presence 7, Volume 7.5. 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 "Passing Complexion" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Passing Complexion" 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 "Passing Complexion" by Big Black are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.