🎸 Artist tone guide

How to get Michael Jackson's guitar tone

Michael Jackson across 2 famous tones — mostly through Marshall 1959 Super Lead 100W, Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus. Here is where to start, then adapt any of it to the guitar and amp you actually own.

Starting point (averaged): gain 4 · bass 6 · mid 6 · treble 7.5 · presence 6 (out of 10)
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Michael Jackson's go-to amps

Marshall 1959 Super Lead 100W ×1Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus ×1

2 famous Michael Jackson tones

Beat It
gain 8 · bass 6 · mid 5.5 · treble 7.5
Billie Jean
gain 0 · bass 5.5 · mid 6 · treble 7

Rock amp settings

Michael Jackson is a rock staple. See the best amp settings for rock — averaged EQ, go-to amps and a full how-to.

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How to get Michael Jackson's tone — FAQ

What amp settings does Michael Jackson use?

Averaged across 2 of their tones: gain 4, bass 6, mid 6, treble 7.5, presence 6 (out of 10). Adapt to your own amp.

What gear do I need to sound like Michael Jackson?

They favour Marshall 1959 Super Lead 100W, Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus. You do not need the exact rig — GuitarToneAdapt re-dials their tones for the guitar and amp you already own, free.

How do I get Michael Jackson's guitar tone?

Start with their go-to gear (Marshall 1959 Super Lead 100W, Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus) and a starting EQ of gain 4, bass 6, mid 6, treble 7.5, presence 6 (out of 10), then dial in any of the 2 songs below. GuitarToneAdapt adapts each one to the exact amp and guitar you own, free.

Can I get Michael Jackson's tone on a different amp or guitar?

Yes. You do not need their exact rig — GuitarToneAdapt models how their gear shapes the sound and compensates for whatever amp, guitar and pedals you already have, free in the browser.

Settings are community-researched estimates. Adapt any to your gear at GuitarToneAdapt · amp settings · all 1,200+ tones.