How to Dial In "Superficial Love" by T.S.O.L. - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Superficial Love"
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 T.S.O.L. (1981). T.S.O.L. is the eponymously titled debut EP by the American hardcore punk band T.S.O.L. (True Sounds of Liberty), released in 1981 through Posh Boy Records. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Gretsch G6136T White Falcon through a Fender '57 Custom Champ, the nearest rig we use for T.S.O.L.'s other songs, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Superficial Love" Tone
What guitar did T.S.O.L. use on "Superficial Love"?
The guitar on "Superficial Love" (released 1981) isn't documented; the Gretsch G6136T White Falcon above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Superficial Love" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 5.5, Bass 5, Mid 5.5, 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 "Superficial Love" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Superficial Love" 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 "Superficial Love" by T.S.O.L. are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.