How to Dial In "Systems Failing" by Michael Schenker Group - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Systems Failing"
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 Built to Destroy (1983). Built to Destroy is the fourth studio album by the English hard rock band The Michael Schenker Group, released on 2 September 1983 in the UK and on 16 January 1984 in the US. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Gibson Flying V through a Marshall JCM800 2203, the rig we use for Michael Schenker Group's other songs from Built to Destroy, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Systems Failing" Tone
What guitar did Michael Schenker Group use on "Systems Failing"?
The guitar on "Systems Failing" (released 1983) isn't documented; the Gibson Flying V above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Systems Failing" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6.5, Bass 6, Mid 6.5, Treble 6, 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 "Systems Failing" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Systems Failing" 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 "Systems Failing" by Michael Schenker Group are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.