Beat It Solo Guitar Tone Settings — Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson · 1980s · rock
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Original Recording
A reconstruction of the solo tone. Gear attributions and estimated settings are explained in the research notes below.
Studio recording, 1982. Clean sections played by Steve Lukather, not Eddie Van Halen. Lukather used his Valley Arts Custom Pro with EMG pickups into a modded Fender Deluxe Reverb (Rivera mod). No evidence of additional pedals or effects on the clean section. All information is for the studio recording, not live.
Amp Settings
Suggested starting points on a 0–10 scale, not documented studio knob positions. Match to your gear for controls specific to your setup.
Effects Chain
Valley Arts Custom Pro → Fender Deluxe Reverb (Rivera mod, spring reverb on, no pedals)
Tone Matcher
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Tone Character
- clear and articulate
- tight and dry
- modest overdrive (edge of breakup, but still clean)
- pop radio friendly
- no heavy effects
- warm but present
- balanced EQ (not scooped, not harsh)
- studio-polished
- dynamic and responsive
- not compressed or saturated
Sources
Tone Story / Why This Tone Works
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