How to Dial In "NEAR DEATH" by Polyphia - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "NEAR DEATH"
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 BE NOT AFRAID (2026). The album, released on 23 October 2026, mixes metal, prog and house (Premier Guitar), and the rig for it hasn't been published. Tim Henson's signature Ibanez into a modeled amp stands in. Use a clean-edged, articulate high-gain tone on the bridge pickup so fast single-note lines stay clear. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "NEAR DEATH" Tone
What guitar did Polyphia use on "NEAR DEATH"?
The guitar on "NEAR DEATH" (released 2026) isn't documented; the Ibanez Tim Henson THBB10 (Signature) above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "NEAR DEATH" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6, Presence 5.5, Volume 6. 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 "NEAR DEATH" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "NEAR DEATH" 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 "NEAR DEATH" by Polyphia are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.