How to Dial In "Model Man" by King Crimson - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Model Man"
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 Three of a Perfect Pair (1984). Three of a Perfect Pair is the tenth studio album by the English progressive rock band King Crimson, released on 23 March 1984 by E.G. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Gibson Les Paul Custom through a Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus, the rig we use for King Crimson's other songs from Three of a Perfect Pair, stands in. Keep the amp clean, just at the edge of breakup, and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Model Man" Tone
What guitar did King Crimson use on "Model Man"?
The guitar on "Model Man" (released 1984) isn't documented; the Gibson Les Paul Custom above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Model Man" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 3, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, 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 "Model Man" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Model Man" 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 "Model Man" by King Crimson are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.