How to Dial In "Underneath the Bunker" by R.E.M. - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Underneath the Bunker"
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 Lifes Rich Pageant (1986). Lifes Rich Pageant is the fourth studio album by the American alternative rock band R.E.M., released on July 28, 1986, by I.R.S. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Rickenbacker 330 through a Fender '65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue, the rig we use for R.E.M.'s other songs from Lifes Rich Pageant, stands in. Set the amp to a light crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Underneath the Bunker" Tone
What guitar did R.E.M. use on "Underneath the Bunker"?
The guitar on "Underneath the Bunker" (released 1986) isn't documented; the Rickenbacker 330 above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Underneath the Bunker" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 4.5, Bass 5.5, Mid 6, Treble 7, Presence 6.5, Volume 6.5. 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 "Underneath the Bunker" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Underneath the Bunker" 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 "Underneath the Bunker" by R.E.M. are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.