How to Dial In "The Universe Expanded" by Franz Ferdinand - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "The Universe Expanded"
Suggested rig · the original isn't documented.
Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
On your amp, these numbers won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
From Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action (2013). Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action is the fourth studio album by Scottish indie rock band Franz Ferdinand, released on 26 August 2013 by Domino Records. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Fender American Vintage '52 Telecaster (AVRI Reissue) through a Marshall JCM800 2203, the rig we use for Franz Ferdinand's other songs from Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup.
Common Questions About the "The Universe Expanded" Tone
What guitar did Franz Ferdinand use on "The Universe Expanded"?
The guitar on "The Universe Expanded" (released 2013) isn't documented; the Fender American Vintage '52 Telecaster (AVRI Reissue) above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "The Universe Expanded" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 5.5, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 7, Presence 6, Volume 6.5. 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 "The Universe Expanded" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "The Universe Expanded" 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 "The Universe Expanded" by Franz Ferdinand are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.