How to Dial In "Star Power" by Sonic Youth - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Star Power"
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 EVOL (1986). A noisy EVOL track with chiming, clashing guitars. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so a Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster through a Fender '65 Twin Reverb Reissue stands in. Set the amp at a light crunch and use the bridge pickup. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "Star Power" Tone
What guitar did Sonic Youth use on "Star Power"?
The guitar on "Star Power" (released 1986) isn't documented; the Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Star Power" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 5.5, Bass 5, Mid 5, Treble 7, Presence 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 "Star Power" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Star Power" 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 "Star Power" by Sonic Youth are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.