How to Dial In "Writing on the Walls" by Underoath - Guitar Tone Settings
What Underoath Actually Used on "Writing on the Walls"
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 Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier. On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
Drop D — D A D G B E. Define the Great Line was recorded in 2006 with Matt Goldman and Adam Dutkiewicz of Killswitch Engage, and it is the record where Underoath moved from melodic metalcore into something harsher and more atmospheric; it debuted at number two in the US, which for a band on Tooth & Nail was startling. Tim McTague's guitar work alternates fast muted riffing with wide, delay-soaked clean textures, so build a setting you can drop the gain out of rather than two separate patches. The mistake people make is scooping the mids into oblivion — Dutkiewicz's production keeps the guitars mid-present so the riffs cut through very busy drums. Gate it hard: the stop-start phrasing is the point.
Common Questions About the "Writing on the Walls" Tone
What guitar did Underoath use on "Writing on the Walls"?
Underoath tracked "Writing on the Walls" on an ESP LTD EC-1000 (released 2006). Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. The track is in Drop D (D A D G B E), so retune before you dial anything in.
What amp settings does "Writing on the Walls" need?
On Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier: Gain 7.5, Bass 5.5, Mid 5.5, 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 "Writing on the Walls" without a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Writing on the Walls" 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 pedals are on "Writing on the Walls"?
The original signal chain for "Writing on the Walls" runs through Boss DS-1. Whether you own those exact units or close substitutes, ToneMirror maps the pedal voicings onto the pedalboard you actually have.
More Tones You Can Dial In
Tone references for "Writing on the Walls" by Underoath are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.