How to Dial In "Virgin Killer" by Scorpions - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Virgin Killer"
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 Virgin Killer (1976). A heavy hard-rock title track from the album best known for Uli Jon Roth's expressive lead playing. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so a Fender American Vintage '62 Stratocaster through a Marshall 1959SLP Plexi Super Lead Reissue stands in. Set the amp at a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "Virgin Killer" Tone
What guitar did Scorpions use on "Virgin Killer"?
The guitar on "Virgin Killer" (released 1976) isn't documented; the Fender American Vintage '62 Stratocaster above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Virgin Killer" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 7, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 6.5, 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 "Virgin Killer" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Virgin Killer" 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 "Virgin Killer" by Scorpions are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.