Tone Profile

The lead guitar tone is aggressive and cutting, with a raw, mid-focused distortion that is characteristic of early Metallica. It has a tight, articulate attack with enough sustain for melodic lines.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The aggressive tone is achieved by pushing a Marshall JCM800 amp with an Ibanez Tube Screamer.
• The Shure SM57 was likely placed close to the speaker cone, slightly off-axis.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a Gibson Flying V or similar guitar with high-output humbuckers.
• Use a Marshall JCM800 or similar high-gain amplifier as a base.
• Engage an Ibanez Tube Screamer with the drive set low to mid, and the level set high to push the amp.
• Position a Shure SM57 close to the speaker cone and adjust placement until you achieve a balanced tone with good attack.
• EQ the signal to emphasize the midrange frequencies for a cutting tone.

Original Gear

• Gibson Flying V(guitar)
• Marshall JCM800(amp)
• Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808(pedal)
• Shure SM57(mic)