How to Dial In "Backs to the Wall" by Saxon - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Backs to the Wall"
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 Saxon (1979). Saxon is the debut studio album by English heavy metal band Saxon, released in 1979. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Gibson SG Standard through a Marshall 1959SLP Plexi Super Lead Reissue, the rig we use for Saxon's other songs from Saxon, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup.
Common Questions About the "Backs to the Wall" Tone
What guitar did Saxon use on "Backs to the Wall"?
The guitar on "Backs to the Wall" (released 1979) isn't documented; the Gibson SG Standard above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Backs to the Wall" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 5.5, Volume 7.5. 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 "Backs to the Wall" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Backs to the Wall" 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 "Backs to the Wall" by Saxon are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.