How to Dial In "Auctioneer (Another Engine)" by R.E.M. - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Auctioneer (Another Engine)"
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 Fables of the Reconstruction (1985). Fables of the Reconstruction is the third studio album by the American alternative rock band R.E.M., released on June 10, 1985 by I.R.S. Records. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Rickenbacker 360 through a Fender Silverface Twin Reverb, the rig we use for R.E.M.'s other songs from Fables of the Reconstruction, stands in. Set the amp to a light crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Auctioneer (Another Engine)" Tone
What guitar did R.E.M. use on "Auctioneer (Another Engine)"?
The guitar on "Auctioneer (Another Engine)" (released 1985) isn't documented; the Rickenbacker 360 above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Auctioneer (Another Engine)" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 4, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, 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 "Auctioneer (Another Engine)" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Auctioneer (Another Engine)" 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 "Auctioneer (Another Engine)" by R.E.M. are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.