How to Dial In "Song for Someone" by U2 - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Song for Someone"
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 Songs of Innocence (2014). Rhythmic, pulsing guitar parts in the Edge's style. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so a Gibson Explorer through a Vox AC30 C2 stands in. Use the bridge pickup and set the amp bright and right at the edge of breakup. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "Song for Someone" Tone
What guitar did U2 use on "Song for Someone"?
The guitar on "Song for Someone" (released 2014) isn't documented; the Gibson Explorer above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Song for Someone" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 3, Bass 4.5, Mid 5.5, Treble 7, Presence 6, Volume 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 "Song for Someone" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Song for Someone" 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 "Song for Someone" by U2 are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.