Tone Settings for Hemorrhage (Live Version) by Fuel (guitar and amp)

1. Volume

• Set guitar volume knob to 10 for full signal output.
• Control dynamics with picking intensity instead of volume knob roll-off.
• If using an amp with multiple channels, gain/volume balance on rhythm and lead channels is key for the live tone.

2. Tone

• Set tone knob around 7-8 to retain warmth but avoid muddiness.
• Pickup tone shaping can be done primarily from amp EQ settings—mid-heavy with slight scoop in highs.
• Make sure guitar tone stays clear in chordal parts but cuts through in leads and solos.

3. Pickup Selector

• Bridge pickup for heavier, more aggressive rhythm parts (choruses, bridges).
• Neck pickup for smoother lead tones, especially on solos or clean intro parts.
• Middle position for a blend that can work well in dynamic live sections like verses.

4. Humbucker or Single Coil Preferred?

• Humbuckers strongly preferred to achieve the thick, mid-gain rock tone.
• Single coils tend to sound too thin and bright for this particular style.
• Passive humbuckers over active for a more organic live sound.

5. Ideal Guitar Type

• Les Paul-style electric guitar (solid body) is ideal for warmth and sustain.
• Mahogany body with maple top helps deliver rich mids and focused lows.
• Dual humbucker configuration with standard volume/tone controls per pickup recommended.
• Tune stability and heavier gauge strings (10-46 or 11-49) help achieve tight rhythm tones.

• Gibson Les Paul Standard: Ideal for thick, sustaining lead tones.
• Fender Telecaster: Useful for crisp, articulate rhythm parts if dual-guitar setup is desired.
• Marshall JCM800 Amp: Delivers the classic rock gain and punchy mids heard in the live tone.
• Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal: Provides a gritty, controlled overdrive without overwhelming the chords.
• Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb: Adds depth to clean intro sections.
• MXR Phase 90: Light phasing can add subtle movement to clean arpeggios.
• Ernie Ball Volume Pedal: Useful for swell techniques or dynamic volume control during live performance.
• TC Electronic Polytune: Reliable tuner for precise live tuning.
• Planet Waves Guitar Cable (or equivalent): Ensures signal integrity from guitar to amp/pedals.
• Dunlop Tortex Picks (0.88mm): Balanced flexibility for both rhythm and lead parts.

• Use moderate gain for overdrive – avoid excessive distortion to retain clarity.
• Slightly scoop mids to mimic post-grunge tonal character.
• Apply medium reverb for ambiance without muddying the mix.
• Match tuning to drop D to align with the original performance.
• Use bridge pickup for lead passages to maintain bite and presence.
• Dial in light compression to smooth dynamics, especially on clean parts.
• Volume swell effects can simulate live vocal dynamics when needed.
• Ensure tight palm muting during verses for rhythmic accuracy.
• Push mids slightly in solos for better cut in the live mix.
• Use amp modeling or IRs similar to Mesa/Boogie or Marshall tones.