How to Dial In "Masterpiece" by Big Thief - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Masterpiece"
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.
The title track of the band's debut album, released in May 2016 on Saddle Creek, with Adrianne Lenker's vocal over bright, jangly electric guitars and a loose, driving rhythm. The guitar tone is clean and slightly gritty, with open chords and short lead lines from Buck Meek. No source available here confirms the exact guitars and amps on this recording, so a Telecaster through a Deluxe Reverb stands in. Use the bridge pickup and a bright, clean-to-edge-of-breakup tone.
Common Questions About the "Masterpiece" Tone
What guitar did Big Thief use on "Masterpiece"?
The guitar on "Masterpiece" (released 2016) isn't documented; the Fender American Professional II 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 "Masterpiece" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 3.5, Bass 5, Mid 5.5, Treble 6.5, Presence 5, Volume 6.5. 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 "Masterpiece" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Masterpiece" 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 "Masterpiece" by Big Thief are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.