Scar Tissue amp settings — Marshall Code 25
The Red Hot Chili Peppers guitar tone for “Scar Tissue”, dialed in for a Marshall Code 25 with a Yamaha Pacifica 112V. Studio version, Californication (1999)
Marshall Major/Silver Jubilee, 1962 Fender Stratocaster (middle pickup), Boss SD-1 or Tube Screamer at low gain
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 3 |
| Bass | 8 |
| Mid | 6 |
| Treble | 5 |
| Presence | 4 |
| Reverb | 3 |
| Master | 5 |
01Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive (use Code 25 built-in 'Overdrive' or 'Tubescreamer' effect)
Use the Marshall Code's built-in Tubescreamer or GUV Dist at minimum gain as a clean boost — this replicates Frusciante's SD-1 pushing the front end. If using the app, place before amp model.
The Pacifica 112V has Alnico V single coils that are slightly hotter and darker than Frusciante's vintage Strat pickups, so treble is dropped to 5 (vs his 6-7) to avoid harshness. Bass is pushed to 8 to replicate his signature full low-end on Marshalls. The Code 25's JTM45 or Plexi model gets closest to the Major's warm headroom — avoid the high-gain models entirely.
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These settings are for a Marshall Code 25. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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