Smooth Criminal amp settings — Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV
The Michael Jackson guitar tone for “Smooth Criminal”, dialed in for a Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV with a Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan Stratocaster. Studio version, Bad (1987) — rhythm guitar track
Fender Stratocaster (bridge/middle) direct into Neve console via active DI, processed with UREI 1176 / studio optical compression
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 2 |
| Bass | 3 |
| Mid | 6 |
| Treble | 7 |
| Presence | 6 |
| Reverb | 0 |
| Master | 4 |
01Compressor (e.g. MXR Dyna Comp / Boss CS-3)
RECOMMENDED — not currently owned; essential for replicating studio console squish and transient snap
The original was recorded direct-to-console with high-end outboard compression, so run the Hot Rod Deluxe IV strictly on its cleanest channel with low input volume to avoid any preamp breakup. The bright switch is engaged and bass is dialed down to 3 to recreate the tight, hi-fi direct-injected funk snap and prevent low-end boominess through the 12-inch speaker. Adding an outboard compressor pedal later will fully capture the spanky studio squash.
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These settings are for a Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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