How to Dial In "Goon Squad" by Deftones - Guitar Tone Settings
What Deftones Actually Used on "Goon Squad"
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 Fractal Audio Axe-FX II. 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 Koi No Yokan (2012). A slow-burning Koi No Yokan track with atmospheric, effects-washed guitar. Stephen Carpenter has said he used an Axe-Fx on Koi No Yokan, which was written on an eight-string guitar; Premier Guitar's 2013 rig rundown lists his ESP SC-608B 8-string and a Fractal Axe-Fx II, and those two stand in. Set the amp on the edge of breakup and use the bridge pickup. Carpenter's eight-string is tuned F#-B-E-A-D-G-B-E according to Premier Guitar; the app has no preset for it, so tuning is left unset.
Common Questions About the "Goon Squad" Tone
What guitar did Deftones use on "Goon Squad"?
Deftones tracked "Goon Squad" on an ESP LTD Stephen Carpenter SC-608B Baritone 8-String (released 2012). Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Goon Squad" need?
On Fractal Audio Axe-FX II: Gain 4, Bass 6.5, Mid 5, Treble 6, 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 "Goon Squad" without a Fractal Audio Axe-FX II?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Goon Squad" 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 "Goon Squad" by Deftones are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.