Tone library / Dire Straits / So Far Away

So Far Away amp settings — Marshall MG30CFX

The Dire Straits guitar tone for “So Far Away”, dialed in for a Marshall MG30CFX with a Squier Affinity Telecaster. Studio version, Brothers in Arms (1985) - main lead/hook

Original rig

Pensa-Suhr Custom controller guitar triggering NED Synclavier synth blended with guitar clean signal into Fender/Marshall studio setup

Pristine, chiming compressed clean with subtle synth-like attack and warm studio reverb

Amp settings — Marshall MG30CFX

CHANNELCleanBOOSToff

Knob	Setting (0–10)
Gain	2
Bass	6
Mid	5
Treble	6
Reverb	5
Master	6

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Guitar

PICKUPneck+middle TONE9 VOLUME10

Signal chain

01Compressor (e.g. MXR Dyna Comp / Keeley)

RECOMMENDED — not currently owned (essential for the signature percussive snap)

Output 6 · Sensitivity 7

02Chorus / Subtle Pitch Modulation

RECOMMENDED — not currently owned (mimics the Synclavier doubling shimmer)

Rate 3 · Depth 4

Why these settings

Set the MG30CFX strictly to the Clean channel with gain low (2) to maintain crystal-clear headroom without preamp grit. Your Telecaster middle position (both pickups) provides the scooped 'quack' Knopfler used on this track, while the MG30CFX's onboard digital spring/hall reverb at 5 fills in the spacious studio wash. The Cry Baby and HD300 must remain bypassed since this track requires pure unclipped clean tone.

PRO TIPDitch the plectrum entirely and use Knopfler's signature fingerpicking style—pluck the melody lines with your bare index and middle fingers while muting slightly with your right palm to get the round, percussive snap of the original track.

Get this tone on your amp

These settings are for a Marshall MG30CFX. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.

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Song, artist and gear names are used to identify the tone being matched; ToneAdapt is not affiliated with or endorsed by the artists or manufacturers mentioned. Settings are AI-generated starting points — trust your ears.