How to Dial In "Incommunicado" by Marillion - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Incommunicado"
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.
The lead single from Clutching at Straws, released in March 1987 ahead of the album in November, and the last studio album with Fish as lead singer. It is a fast, driving, almost hard-rock song with a bright rhythm guitar part and a quick Steve Rothery solo. No source available here confirms the exact gear on this recording, so a Stratocaster through a Marshall with a delay pedal stands in. Use the bridge pickup, a crunchy mid-gain tone and a short, slapback-style delay.
Common Questions About the "Incommunicado" Tone
What guitar did Marillion use on "Incommunicado"?
The guitar on "Incommunicado" (released 1987) isn't documented; the Fender American Professional II Stratocaster above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Incommunicado" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 5.5, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 5.5, 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 "Incommunicado" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Incommunicado" 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.
What pedals are on "Incommunicado"?
Whether you own those exact units or close substitutes, ToneMirror maps the pedal voicings onto the pedalboard you actually have.
More Tones You Can Dial In
Tone references for "Incommunicado" by Marillion are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.