How to Dial In "Let the Children Play" by Santana - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Let the Children Play"
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 Festivál (1977). A Latin-rock track from Festivál with a soaring, sustained lead. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so a Yamaha SG2000 through a Mesa Boogie Mark I Reissue stands in. Set the amp at a medium-gain crunch and use the neck pickup. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "Let the Children Play" Tone
What guitar did Santana use on "Let the Children Play"?
The guitar on "Let the Children Play" (released 1977) isn't documented; the Yamaha SG2000 above gets the sound. Pickup selector: neck pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Let the Children Play" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6, Bass 5, Mid 7, Treble 6, Presence 5.5, Volume 7. 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 "Let the Children Play" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Let the Children Play" 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 "Let the Children Play" by Santana are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.