How to Dial In "Breakthrough" by Joe Bonamassa - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Breakthrough"
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 Breakthrough (2025). Nothing published ties a rig to this song, so a Gibson Joe Bonamassa Les Paul into a Marshall 1959SLP Plexi Super Lead Reissue stands in. Set a medium-high crunch on the bridge pickup and keep the low end tight. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "Breakthrough" Tone
What guitar did Joe Bonamassa use on "Breakthrough"?
The guitar on "Breakthrough" (released 2025) isn't documented; the Gibson Joe Bonamassa Les Paul above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Breakthrough" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6.5, Bass 5.5, 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 "Breakthrough" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Breakthrough" 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 "Breakthrough" by Joe Bonamassa are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.