Real AmpTuning: C StandardPickup: NeckAlternative RockHigh Gain

Songs for the Deaf Mid-Honk — C-Standard Stomp

Josh Homme has identified the small Peavey Decade as a secret ingredient in recognizable Queens of the Stone Age tones, including “No One Knows,” while later analysis emphasizes the importance of boosted low-mid frequencies rather than a conventional scooped rock sound. The record used layered and unconventional equipment, so the values below are representative rather than a claim that one amp produced the entire finished guitar. Source: Guitar World’s Peavey Decade reports and Josh Homme tone interview.

Signal Chain

Humbucker-equipped semi-hollow or solidbody guitarParametric Mid BoostPeavey Decade blended with larger tube ampMixed small combo and 4x12 cabinetsOutput
GuitarHumbucker-equipped semi-hollow or solidbody guitar
Tone
8.5
PickupNeck
TuningC Standard
Volume
10
PedalParametric Mid Boost
Q5
Boost7
Level
6
Frequency500 Hz
AmpPeavey Decade blended with larger tube amp
Bass
4.5
Gain
6.5
Mids
9
Master
7
Treble
4.5
Small-Amp Blend5
Cab / IRMixed small combo and 4x12 cabinets
MicMultiple close microphones
Mic PositionSmall speaker close-miked; 4x12 mic off-axis

Notes

Use C-standard strings with enough tension to keep the riff percussive. Emphasize the 400–600 Hz region and avoid excessive presence or sub-bass.

Don't have this gear?

See the same signal chain mapped to another platform. Knob values carry over as starting points — gain ranges differ between platforms.

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