Tone library / AC/DC / Thunderstruck

Thunderstruck amp settings — V-TONE Ega 39 SB

The AC/DC guitar tone for “Thunderstruck”, dialed in for a V-TONE Ega 39 SB with a V-TONE EGA 39 SB. Studio version, The Razors Edge (1990) — iconic opening arpeggio and rhythm riff

Original rig

1963 Gretsch Jet Firebird (Filter'Tron humbucker), 1971 Marshall JMP Super Bass 100W, Marshall 1960B 4x12 with Celestion Vintage 30s, straight-in no pedals

Tight, clangy rhythm crunch with midrange honk, minimal bass, power-amp grind without preamp fizz — clean-loud on the edge of breakup
Amp settings — V-TONE Ega 39 SB
CHANNELOverdrive / Drive Switch OnBOOSToff
GAIN 5 BASS 3 TREBLE 7 REVERB 0 MASTER 6
KnobSetting (0–10)
Gain5
Bass3
Treble7
Reverb0
Master6
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Guitar
PICKUPbridge TONE10 VOLUME10
Signal chain

01Boss SD-1 or Tube Screamer OD

RECOMMENDED — not currently owned; push into a clean channel for tight British crunch

Drive 2 · Tone 6 · Level 8
Why these settings

The V-Tone beginner practice amp is an unstandardized solid-state unit with basic 2-band EQ (bass and treble only, no mid or presence controls), so knob names and responses reflect generic practice-amp circuits. Set the drive channel around 5 to capture Angus and Malcolm's open-chord crunch without turning into fizzy modern distortion. Keep bass low to match the Marshall Super Bass tight low-end roll-off and push treble for the signature top-end bite.

PRO TIPPick firmly right near the bridge saddles using heavy, stiff picks to mimic the sharp attack and bright clang of Malcolm's Filter'Tron and Angus's SG.

Get this tone on your amp

These settings are for a V-TONE Ega 39 SB. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.

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