How to Dial In "Heavy Metal Thunder" by Saxon - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Heavy Metal Thunder"
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). A stomping, mid-tempo early heavy-metal anthem with a chunky riff. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so a Gibson SG Standard through a Marshall 1959SLP Plexi Super Lead Reissue stands in. Use the bridge pickup and set the amp for a classic hard-rock crunch. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Heavy Metal Thunder" Tone
What guitar did Saxon use on "Heavy Metal Thunder"?
The guitar on "Heavy Metal Thunder" (released 1979) isn't documented; the Gibson SG Standard above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Heavy Metal Thunder" 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 "Heavy Metal Thunder" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Heavy Metal Thunder" 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 "Heavy Metal Thunder" by Saxon are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.