How to Dial In "Simple Simon" by Steve Morse - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Simple Simon"
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 Southern Steel (1991). Southern Steel is the fourth studio album by the American guitarist Steve Morse, released in 1991. "Simple Simon" was a minor heavy metal radio hit. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Music Man Steve Morse Standard through a Fender '65 Twin Reverb Reissue, the nearest rig we use for Steve Morse's other songs, stands in. Keep the amp clean, just at the edge of breakup, and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Simple Simon" Tone
What guitar did Steve Morse use on "Simple Simon"?
The guitar on "Simple Simon" (released 1991) isn't documented; the Music Man Steve Morse 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 "Simple Simon" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 3, Bass 5.5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, 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 "Simple Simon" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Simple Simon" 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 "Simple Simon" by Steve Morse are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.