Tone Settings for Electric Feel by MGMT (guitar and amp)

1. Volume

• Set volume knob on guitar near maximum to retain touch sensitivity and dynamic expression.
• Use amp volume to control overall level; keep it clean or slightly pushed to break up subtly.
• If using pedals, volume can remain high to push modulation/delay units without losing clarity.

2. Tone

• Roll off the tone knob slightly (around 6-7/10) for warmth without becoming too muddy.
• MGMT’s guitar tone is smooth and rounded, so avoid overly bright EQ settings.
• Dial in amp or pedal EQ for midrange focus and softened treble; avoid scooping mids.

3. Pickup Selector

• Use the neck pickup for a warm, synth-like tone with softened highs.
• Middle position (bridge + neck) can work if your guitar supports it, offering fuller tone.
• Avoid the bridge pickup alone—it may sound too sharp or aggressive for this style.

4. Humbucker or Single Coil Preferred?

• Humbuckers are preferred to replicate the thick, smooth tone found in “Electric Feel.”
• If using single coils, consider using a neck pickup with tone rolled off, possibly with a compression pedal.
• P-90s can also be a solid alternative if you want something between humbuckers and single coils.

5. Ideal Guitar Type

• Jazzmaster-style electric guitar with humbuckers or wide-range pickups is ideal.
• Semi-hollow guitars like the Fender Starcaster or Gibson ES-335 variants can also match the vibe.
• Offset body guitars help maintain the aesthetic and ergonomic feel in line with MGMT’s indie sound.

• Fender Stratocaster: Great for achieving smooth, clean tones with a touch of vintage character
• Electro-Harmonix Small Stone Phaser: Essential for replicating the song’s swirling modulation effects
• MXR Dyna Comp Compressor: Helps maintain consistent dynamics and sustain
• Boss CE-2 Chorus: Adds lush, modulated texture to rhythm parts
• Ibanez Tube Screamer: Ideal for subtle overdrive and warmth
• Dunlop Cry Baby Wah: Useful for expressive filter sweeps during leads
• Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler: Versatile delay for recreating spacious and ambient parts
• Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus: Clean amp with stereo chorus, great for shimmering tones

• Maintain a psychedelic synth-pop tone throughout
• Use warm analog synth emulation for melody lines
• Apply moderate reverb and delay for a dreamy vocal atmosphere
• Keep vocals smooth and breathy with slight chorus effect
• Emphasize a groovy, mid-tempo rhythm with tight drum patterns
• Favor vintage synth textures over digital clarity
• Layer guitars subtly with phaser or flange to enhance texture
• Balance brightness and warmth in the mix using EQ
• Use automation for dynamic filter sweeps to add movement
• Reference the original’s stereo imaging to guide instrument placement