Let It Happen by Tame Impala — Amp Settings & Guitar Tone

Reference tone dialed on a Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster into a Fender Mustang LT25. Settings below are cited from real sources; open the page in a browser for the interactive version, or get this tone dialed for your exact gear.

This setup captures the psychedelic pop essence of 'Let It Happen' by Tame Impala, focusing on a clean, spacious tone with swirling modulation and subtle delay. The Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster '60s provides the single-coil clarity needed, while the Fender Mustang LT25's modeling capabilities allow for the necessary effects and amp character.

Signal chain settings

Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster '60s — Main rhythm tone

ControlSettingWhy
Pickup SelectorMiddle PickupThe middle pickup provides a balanced tone with clarity, ideal for the clean and spacious intro jam.
Master Volume8Set to 8 to maintain a clean tone while allowing for dynamic playing.
Tone 17Tone 1 at 7 keeps the mids forward, matching the recording's mid-forward character.
Tone 210Tone wide open — roll it down to soften the high end.

Fender Mustang LT25 — Amp and effects processing

ControlSettingWhy
Preset01 FENDER CLEANThis preset provides the clean Fender amp character needed for the song's clean and spacious tone.
Gain4Set to 4 to keep the tone clean and articulate, matching the recording's clean character.
Volume5Volume at 5 balances the output without overdriving the amp, maintaining clarity.
Treble6Treble at 6 enhances brightness without harshness, aligning with the recording's bright character.
Bass4Bass at 4 slightly scoops the low end, keeping it out of the way of the mids and treble.
Master6Output level — set to the volume you're playing at; this sets loudness, not tone.
EffectsPhaser, Reverb, DelayEngage phaser for swirling modulation, reverb for subtle ambiance, and delay for spaciousness in the intro jam. Using the amp's Menu Button and Preset Select, open the effects list to reach it. Start around Level 3-4/10 on a room or plate type — just enough space, not a cave. Press Save Button to keep it in this preset.
Cabinet buildNot usedNot needed for this tone — leave it off.
Amp ModelsNot usedNot needed for this tone — leave it off.

What Tame Impala actually used

Kevin Parker recorded 'Let It Happen' entirely by himself, utilizing a combination of traditional instruments and synthesizers. The track features experimental production techniques, including glitch effects reminiscent of a skipping CD, achieved through digital editing. Parker's approach blends elements of psychedelic rock, indie, electronica, and synth-pop, showcasing his meticulous solo production style.

  • Fender Stratocaster — main
  • Roland Juno-106 — synthesizer
  • Concertmate MG-1 — synthesizer
  • Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) — recording and production

Sources