How to Dial In "Mustapha" by Queen - Guitar Tone Settings
The Gear Behind "Mustapha"
Original Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
These numbers are for an AC30. On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
The opening track of Jazz, released in November 1978 and produced by Queen and Roy Thomas Baker, with Freddie Mercury singing in a mock Middle Eastern style over a stomping riff. Brian May plays his homemade Red Special through a Vox AC30 with a treble booster, which is the setup he has used since the early 1970s, so this song uses the same documented rig as his other records. Use the bridge pickup for the biting riff and the lead break, push the AC30 hard and add just enough booster for the sustain.
Common Questions About the "Mustapha" Tone
What guitar did Queen use on "Mustapha"?
Queen recorded "Mustapha" (released 1978) before the Brian May Guitars Red Special came out; it is named above as a modern equivalent. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Mustapha" need?
On an AC30: Gain 7, Bass 5.5, Mid 6.5, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, Volume 8. 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 "Mustapha" without an AC30?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Mustapha" 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 "Mustapha"?
The original signal chain for "Mustapha" runs through Dallas Rangemaster Treble Booster. 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 "Mustapha" by Queen are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.