How to Dial In "Resurrection" by Brian May - Guitar Tone Settings
The Gear Behind "Resurrection"
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.
A duet between Cozy Powell's drums and Brian May's guitar and vocals on Back to the Light, released on 28 September 1992, written as a tribute to a friendship that was cut short by Powell's death in 1998. It was first recorded as "Ride to Win" on Powell's 1992 solo album The Drums Are Back. 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; no source available here confirms the exact amps and pedals on this recording. Bridge pickup, a bright, overdriven, singing tone with layered harmonies. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Resurrection" Tone
What guitar did Brian May use on "Resurrection"?
Brian May recorded "Resurrection" (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 "Resurrection" 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 "Resurrection" without an AC30?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Resurrection" 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 "Resurrection"?
The original signal chain for "Resurrection" 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 "Resurrection" by Brian May are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.