How to Dial In "Heart of the Sunrise" by Yes - Bass Tone Settings
What Yes Actually Used on "Heart of the Sunrise"
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 Marshall 1992 Super Bass (100W). On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their bass configured for this take.
Chris Squire's clanking, treble-loaded Rickenbacker attack — heavy plectrum (grey Herco heavy) struck up near the bridge pickup, fresh Rotosound roundwounds, action low enough that the fret buzz becomes part of the sound. The tone is a two-amp 'sandwich': a bright, nearly overdriven guitar-amp voice on top of a clean solid low end, so chase brittle treble and grind rather than warmth. Every note is articulated with the pick; the fast unison riff only works if the attack is aggressive and perfectly even.
Common Questions About the "Heart of the Sunrise" Tone
What bass did Yes use on "Heart of the Sunrise"?
Yes tracked "Heart of the Sunrise" on a Rickenbacker 4001 (released 1971). Pickup selector: neck + bridge (position 3 / out-of-phase) on the bass. Tuned to standard (bass) (E A D G).
What amp settings does "Heart of the Sunrise" need?
On Marshall 1992 Super Bass (100W): Gain 7, Bass 6, Mid 7, Treble 9, Presence 8, Volume 8. 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 "Heart of the Sunrise" without a Marshall 1992 Super Bass (100W)?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Heart of the Sunrise" 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 "Heart of the Sunrise" by Yes are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.