How to Dial In "Bad Reputation" by Thin Lizzy - Guitar Tone Settings
The Gear Behind "Bad Reputation"
Original Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
These numbers are for a Super Lead. On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
Standard tuning. Recorded 1977 at Toronto Sound with Tony Visconti, and effectively a three-piece record — Brian Robertson had fallen out with the band and plays on only part of it, so Scott Gorham covers most of the guitars alone. That is why the title track is built on a single hard-driving riff rather than the twin-lead weave Lizzy are known for, and why it works as a single-guitar tone in a way most of their catalogue does not. Gorham was on a Les Paul Deluxe into Marshalls. Keep the mids up and the gain in classic-rock range; the riff is syncopated against the drums and needs enough note definition that the gaps land. The lead is bluesier and more vocal than the harmonised material on Black Rose.
Common Questions About the "Bad Reputation" Tone
What guitar did Thin Lizzy use on "Bad Reputation"?
Thin Lizzy tracked "Bad Reputation" on a Gibson Les Paul Deluxe (released 1977). Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Bad Reputation" need?
On a Super Lead: Gain 6.5, Bass 5, Mid 7, Treble 7, Presence 6.5, 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 "Bad Reputation" without a Super Lead?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Bad Reputation" 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 "Bad Reputation" by Thin Lizzy are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.