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Solo Tone

Friends, Lovers or Nothing

John Mayer

Guitarrock2000s

Original Gear

GuitarGibson '61 SG Standard
AmpPRS J-MOD 100
PickupsGibson PAF-style humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain4
bass6.5
mid6.5
treble6.5
reverb4.5
presence5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveKlon (or similar) Klon Centaur (or similar transparent overdrive)
reverbStrymon Strymon Flint Tremolo & Reverb
delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown, likely analog or tape-style)

Notes

Studio recording, Battle Studies album (2009). The solo section was specifically recorded with the '61 SG, not Mayer's usual Strat. PRS J-MOD 100 is confirmed as Mayer's main amp for this era. No evidence of Two Rock or Dumble on this track. Pedalboard included Strymon Flint for reverb/tremolo, and likely a Klon Centaur or similar transparent overdrive for solo boost.

Tone Character(10)
warm and glassysinging sustaindynamic and touch-sensitivesmooth overdrivearticulate and expressiveHarrison-esque double-tracked melodylush ambienceclear, balanced, with scooped midrangenot heavy distortionrefined, modern pop/rock

Difficulty

The solo requires intermediate melodic phrasing, expressive bends, and dynamic control, but does not involve extreme speed or advanced techniques.

Sources

Friends, Lovers or Nothing | JohnMayer.infoYour guide to John Mayer's guitars and gear, era by era | Guitar WorldJohn Mayer's Guitar Rig: Tone, Gear & Effects GuideThe Beginners Guide to John Mayer's Tone & How To Get It On a Budget - pedal.ly

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Friends, Lovers or Nothing by John Mayer — Solo Tone Settings | ToneAdapt