GuitarDistortedSolo80% confidence
Whole Lotta Rosie Solo Guitar Tone Settings — AC/DC
AC/DC · 1970s · rock
studio
Original Recording
Guitar
Gibson SG Standard (early 1970s, likely 1968-1971 model, stock)
Pickups
Gibson humbuckers (likely patent sticker or late PAF, stock on SG Standard)
Amp
Marshall Super Lead 1959 100-watt head into Marshall 1960A 4x12 cabinet (Celestion G12M Greenbacks)
Pickup Position
Bridge pickup
Studio recording, 1977. Angus Young used his main Gibson SG into a Marshall Super Lead 1959 head, no pedals, straight in. No evidence of effects loop or additional pedals on the studio recording. Settings estimated based on era, genre, and typical AC/DC studio approach. No evidence of reverb or delay on the solo; dry, direct amp tone.
Amp Settings
Mids7
Bass6
Gain6
Reverb0
Treble7
Presence6.5
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Tone Character
- raw and biting
- tight and percussive
- singing sustain
- bright and articulate highs
- midrange punch
- dynamic and touch-sensitive
- no audible reverb or delay
- classic British crunch
- aggressive bridge pickup clarity
- loud, in-your-face solo presence
Notes & Caveats
- No direct studio documentation of exact knob settings for 'Whole Lotta Rosie' solo; settings estimated based on era, genre, and known AC/DC studio practices.
- No evidence of any pedals or effects used on the studio solo; all sources and isolated tracks indicate dry amp tone.
- If alternate sources or interviews surface with different gear/settings, update accordingly.
- Settings cross-referenced with genre and era conventions for accuracy. Angus Young's 'Whole Lotta Rosie' solo tone is classic Marshall crunch: medium gain, strong mids, tight but not boomy bass, and bright but not harsh treble, with little to no reverb as per 70s hard rock production. These settings reflect his typical amp setup and the era's dry, punchy mix.