How to Dial In "Tenement Song" by Pixies - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Tenement Song"
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 Head Carrier (2016). A mid-tempo indie-rock song with chiming, angular guitar lines. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so a Fender American Vintage '52 Telecaster (AVRI Reissue) through a Marshall JCM800 2203 stands in. Use the bridge pickup and set the amp for a moderate crunch. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "Tenement Song" Tone
What guitar did Pixies use on "Tenement Song"?
The guitar on "Tenement Song" (released 2016) isn't documented; the Fender American Vintage '52 Telecaster (AVRI Reissue) above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Tenement Song" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 4.5, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 5.5, Volume 7.5. 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 "Tenement Song" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Tenement Song" 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 "Tenement Song" by Pixies are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.