How to Dial In "Play Dead" by HIM - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Play Dead"
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 Dark Light (2005). Dark Light is the fifth studio album by Finnish rock band HIM. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Gibson SG Standard through a Laney VH100R, the rig we use for HIM's other songs from Dark Light, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Play Dead" Tone
What guitar did HIM use on "Play Dead"?
The guitar on "Play Dead" (released 2005) isn't documented; the Gibson SG Standard above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Play Dead" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6.5, Bass 6, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, Volume 7. 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 "Play Dead" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Play Dead" 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 "Play Dead" by HIM are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.