How to Dial In "Cloud Nine" by The Temptations - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Cloud Nine"
Suggested rig · the original isn't documented.
- GuitarFender Vintera '60s StratocasterSuggested
- AmpFender '65 Deluxe Reverb ReissueSuggested
- EffectWahA pedal - which one isn't documented · On the opening guitar figure
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 Cloud Nine (1969). Cloud Nine is the ninth studio album by American musical group The Temptations for the Gordy (Motown) label released in 1969. Motown's own history says Dennis Coffey ad-libbed the fast wah-wah figure that opens the record in the session. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Fender Vintera '60s Stratocaster through a Fender '65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue, the nearest rig we use for The Temptations' other songs, stands in. Set the amp to a light crunch and use the neck+middle pickups together.
Common Questions About the "Cloud Nine" Tone
What guitar did The Temptations use on "Cloud Nine"?
The guitar on "Cloud Nine" (released 1969) isn't documented; the Fender Vintera '60s Stratocaster above gets the sound. Pickup selector: neck + middle (position 2) on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Cloud Nine" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 1, Bass 5, Mid 5.5, Treble 6, Presence 5, Volume 3.5. 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 "Cloud Nine" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Cloud Nine" 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.
What effects are on "Cloud Nine"?
The recording has wah on it. No source names the unit behind it, so this page doesn't guess one. ToneMirror maps each effect onto your rig - a pedal you own, your amp's own controls, or a block on a modeler - and says plainly when your rig can't make one.
More Tones You Can Dial In
Tone references for "Cloud Nine" by The Temptations are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.