Mr. Brightside settings for HeadRush MX5

Amp block

Drive

4

Master

7

Bass

4

Mid

7

Treble

8

Presence

6

Effects chain

1. 1overdriveGreen JRC-ODGain 3 · Tone 6 · Level 7
2. 2modulationMulti ChorusMix 5 · Rate 5 · Depth 5
3. 3reverbSpringMix 7 · Decay 5
4. 4compressionCompressorLevel 7 · Sustain 5
5. 5noise gateNoise GateRelease 3 · Threshold 5

Playing tips

• Use a light palm muting technique for a tighter sound on the riff.
• Focus on picking dynamics to achieve the edgy overdriven bite.
• Experiment with a slow chorus effect to add depth and simulate doubling.

What amp model should I use on the HeadRush MX5 for Mr. Brightside?

Use the 64 Black Lux (crunch channel) with Drive 4, Master 7, Bass 4, Mid 7, Treble 8, Presence 6, followed by Green JRC-OD, Multi Chorus, Spring, Compressor, Noise Gate.

Which pickup should I use for Mr. Brightside?

Bridge pickup (single-coil), with the guitar's tone at 8 and volume at 8-9.

What gear did The Killers use on Mr. Brightside?

Guitar: Fender Stratocaster (likely American Standard, early 2000s, as used by Dave Keuning on the studio recording). Amp: Fender Hot Rod DeVille (studio recording, 2003 era; Fender-style amp confirmed by multiple sources).

Will these settings work with my guitar?

These settings were adapted for a Fender Player Telecaster. Different pickups change how much gain and treble you need. ToneAdapt adapts the tone to your exact guitar, pickups, amp and pedals.