How to Dial In "First Class" by Khruangbin - Guitar Tone Settings
What Khruangbin Actually Used on "First Class"
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 '68 Custom Deluxe Reverb. 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 Mordechai (2020). A groovy Mordechai track with a clean, reverb-drenched lead guitar. Premier Guitar's rig rundown puts Mark Speer on a modified 2001 Fender Classic Series '70s Stratocaster through two Fender '68 Custom Deluxe Reverb reissue combos, one a backup. That is his touring rig and the source doesn't tie it to this recording; his wah, phaser, distortion, compressor and reverb pedals are left out for the same reason. Set the amp clean and use the neck pickup. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "First Class" Tone
What guitar did Khruangbin use on "First Class"?
Khruangbin tracked "First Class" on a Fender Classic Series '70s Stratocaster (released 2020). Pickup selector: neck pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "First Class" need?
On Fender '68 Custom Deluxe Reverb: Gain 2, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6, Presence 5.5, Volume 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 "First Class" without a Fender '68 Custom Deluxe Reverb?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "First Class" 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 "First Class" by Khruangbin are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.