How to Dial In "American Obituary" by U2 - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "American Obituary"
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 Days of Ash (2026). A big, chiming arena-rock track in the ringing style of The Edge. No source documents the guitar or amp on this track, so a Gibson Explorer into a Vox AC30 C2 stands in. Set a medium-high crunch on the bridge pickup and keep the low end tight. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "American Obituary" Tone
What guitar did U2 use on "American Obituary"?
The guitar on "American Obituary" (released 2026) isn't documented; the Gibson Explorer above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "American Obituary" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6, 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 "American Obituary" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "American Obituary" 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 "American Obituary" by U2 are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.