Smooth Criminal amp settings — NUX MG-30
The Michael Jackson guitar tone for “Smooth Criminal”, dialed in for a NUX MG-30 with a Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster. Studio version, Bad (1987) — main percussive funk rhythm guitar
Fender Stratocaster direct into Neve recording console via custom active DI box (David Williams), outboard studio compression
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 2 |
| Bass | 3 |
| Mid | 5 |
| Treble | 8 |
| Presence | 7 |
| Reverb | 2 |
| Master | 7 |
01NUX MG-30 Studio Comp / Rose Comp
Essential for the immediate transient pop and squashed dynamic consistency
02NUX MG-30 Graphic EQ Block
Cuts muddy sub-bass rumble and adds crisp top-end sheen before the amp
The original is a pure DI studio track, so running the MG-30 on an ultra-clean Fender Twin model with low gain replicates the pristine headroom of a mixing desk. The Squier Strat's 'in-between' position 4 naturally delivers the iconic quack, while heavy upfront compression on the MG-30 recreates the tight studio VCA outboard limiting. Cutting low-end to 3 prevents the muted 16th-note stabs from getting boomy in the mix.
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These settings are for a NUX MG-30. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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