How to Dial In "Julia" by Chris Rea - Guitar Tone Settings
What Chris Rea Actually Used on "Julia"
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 a Fender Brownface Bandmaster (6G7 / 6G7-A). On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
From Espresso Logic (1993). Espresso Logic is the thirteenth studio album by British singer-songwriter Chris Rea, released on 1 November 1993 by East West. Rea recorded the album with two 1962 Fender Stratocasters into a Fender piggyback amp, and Sound on Sound's account of the sessions describes a Pro Reverb combo and an old, beaten-up Bandmaster head and cabinet, the brown Bandmaster being the one used for distorted sounds. A Fender American Vintage '62 Stratocaster through a Fender Brownface Bandmaster is the closest rig we list. Set the amp to a light crunch and use the neck pickup.
Common Questions About the "Julia" Tone
What guitar did Chris Rea use on "Julia"?
Chris Rea tracked "Julia" on a Fender American Vintage '62 Stratocaster (released 1993). Pickup selector: neck pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Julia" need?
On Fender Brownface Bandmaster (6G7 / 6G7-A): Gain 3, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 5.5, Presence 5, Volume 6. 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 "Julia" without a Fender Brownface Bandmaster (6G7 / 6G7-A)?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Julia" 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 "Julia" by Chris Rea are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.