How to Dial In "Sequestered in Memphis" by The Hold Steady - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Sequestered in Memphis"
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 Stay Positive (2008). Stay Positive is the fourth studio album by the Hold Steady, released on July 15, 2008, through Vagrant Records. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s through a Fender '65 Twin Reverb Reissue, the rig we use for The Hold Steady's other songs from Stay Positive, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Sequestered in Memphis" Tone
What guitar did The Hold Steady use on "Sequestered in Memphis"?
The guitar on "Sequestered in Memphis" (released 2008) isn't documented; the Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Sequestered in Memphis" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6.5, 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 "Sequestered in Memphis" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Sequestered in Memphis" 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 "Sequestered in Memphis" by The Hold Steady are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.