How to Dial In "Last Horizon" by Brian May - Guitar Tone Settings
The Gear Behind "Last Horizon"
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.
Recorded at Allerton Studios in 1988 and included on Back to the Light in 1992, it is one of May's favourite songs. A single followed in December 1993, coupled with a live "Let Your Heart Rule Your Head", and reached number 51 in the UK. May plays it on 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 rig, and no source available here confirms the exact gear on this recording. Use the neck pickup for a singing, sustained lead tone with a long, slow vibrato. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Last Horizon" Tone
What guitar did Brian May use on "Last Horizon"?
Brian May recorded "Last Horizon" (released 1992) before the Brian May Guitars Red Special came out; it is named above as a modern equivalent. Pickup selector: neck pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Last Horizon" need?
On an AC30: Gain 6.5, Bass 5.5, Mid 6.5, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, 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 "Last Horizon" without an AC30?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Last Horizon" 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 "Last Horizon"?
The original signal chain for "Last Horizon" 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 "Last Horizon" by Brian May are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.