How to Dial In "Real by Reel" by XTC - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Real by Reel"
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 Drums and Wires (1979). Drums and Wires is the third studio album by the English rock band XTC, released on 17 August 1979 on Virgin Records. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Fender American Professional II Telecaster through a Vox AC30 C2, the rig we use for XTC's other songs from Drums and Wires, stands in. Set the amp to a light crunch and use the bridge pickup. Standard tuning.
Common Questions About the "Real by Reel" Tone
What guitar did XTC use on "Real by Reel"?
The guitar on "Real by Reel" (released 1979) isn't documented; the Fender American Professional II Telecaster above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Real by Reel" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 4.5, Bass 4.5, Mid 6, Treble 7.5, Presence 7, Volume 6.5. 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 "Real by Reel" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Real by Reel" 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 "Real by Reel" by XTC are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.