Running with the devil amp settings — Marshall Code 50
The Van halen guitar tone for “Running with the devil”, dialed in for a Marshall Code 50 with a Ibanez Idk. Studio version, Van Halen I (1978)
Frankenstrat (single Gibson PAF humbucker) → MXR Phase 90 → Marshall 1959 Super Lead Plexi (100W) via Variac at 89V, half-step down tuning
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 7 |
| Bass | 4 |
| Mid | 6 |
| Treble | 6 |
| Presence | 5 |
| Reverb | 0 |
| Master | 6 |
01Tank G (used as phaser substitute)
If Tank G has phaser mode, use it with slow rate for verse chord swells. If distortion-only, bypass it — the Plexi model provides the gain. Engage only during verse chord stabs.
02MXR Phase 90 (RECOMMENDED — not currently owned)
RECOMMENDED — not owned. Single-knob phaser, slow sweep. Essential for the verse swell sound. A Phase 95 or any basic phaser clone works.
The Marshall Code's Plexi model is your direct match — select the 1959SLP voicing in the amp menu. The original Plexi was voltage-starved via Variac, creating sag and compression; simulate this by keeping gain at 7 (not maxed) and presence at 5 to avoid the digital fizz the Code can produce at high treble/presence. Bass dropped to 4 vs the original's 5 because the Code's Plexi model runs slightly boomy in the low-mids.
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These settings are for a Marshall Code 50. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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