How to Dial In "Back to the Light" by Brian May - Guitar Tone Settings
The Gear Behind "Back to the Light"
Original Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
These numbers are for an AC30. On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
The title track of Brian May's first solo album, released on 28 September 1992 and recorded between March 1988 and November 1992 at his home studio, Allerton Hill. It was released as a single in November 1992 with "Nothin' but Blue" and reached number 19 in the UK, and May first played it live on The Tonight Show on 5 April 1993. May's guitar work comes from his home-built Red Special, which he has said he prefers through a Vox AC30 driven hard. The AC30 and a treble booster stand in for his long-time setup, and no source available here confirms the exact amps and pedals on this recording. Bridge pickup, a bright, singing, overdriven tone with layered harmonies.
Common Questions About the "Back to the Light" Tone
What guitar did Brian May use on "Back to the Light"?
Brian May recorded "Back to the Light" (released 1992) before the Brian May Guitars Red Special came out; it is named above as a modern equivalent. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Back to the Light" need?
On an AC30: Gain 7, Bass 5.5, 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 "Back to the Light" without an AC30?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Back to the Light" 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.
What pedals are on "Back to the Light"?
The original signal chain for "Back to the Light" runs through Dallas Rangemaster Treble Booster. Whether you own those exact units or close substitutes, ToneMirror maps the pedal voicings onto the pedalboard you actually have.
More Tones You Can Dial In
Tone references for "Back to the Light" by Brian May are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.