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Classic Rock1 song

Cream Amp Settings & Guitar Tone

1967StandardClean

Eric Clapton's Cream-era tone — the legendary 'woman tone' — is one of the most influential sounds in rock. By rolling the tone knob to zero on his SG through a cranked Marshall, Clapton created a thick, singing sustain that earned him the nickname 'God.'

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Signature Sound

The Cream tone is defined by the 'woman tone' technique: rolling the guitar's tone knob almost completely off while using the neck pickup. This removes harsh treble and creates a round, warm, vocal quality. Through a cranked Marshall JTM45 or 1959, the tone sustains endlessly and sings with a smooth, creamy character. It's the opposite of bright and cutting — it's dark, warm, and incredibly expressive.

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Featured Tone

Sunshine of Your Love (1967)

1964 Gibson SG Standard Marshall JTM45

Thick, warm, creamy 'woman tone' with rolled-off treble. Dark, vocal-like, horn-like quality. Natural tube compression.

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Typical Gear & Settings

Average Amp Settings

Gain
---
Bass
5.0
Mid
6.0
Treble
4.0
Presence
4.0

Amplifiers

  • Marshall JTM45

Guitars

  • 1964 Gibson SG Standard

Pickups

  • humbucker

Cream Song Tones

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Frequently Asked Questions

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