How to Dial In "One Step Ahead" by Split Enz - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "One Step Ahead"
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 Waiata (1981). Waiata, released as Corroboree in Australia, is the sixth studio album by New Zealand new wave band Split Enz, released in March 1981. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Fender American Professional II Telecaster through a Vox AC30 C2, the rig we use for Split Enz's other songs from Waiata, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "One Step Ahead" Tone
What guitar did Split Enz use on "One Step Ahead"?
The guitar on "One Step Ahead" (released 1981) isn't documented; the Fender American Professional II Telecaster above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "One Step Ahead" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 5.5, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 7, Presence 6.5, 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 "One Step Ahead" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "One Step Ahead" 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 "One Step Ahead" by Split Enz are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.