TONEDB

rhythm guitar from “nothing else matters” by metallica | ToneDB

nothing else matters

metallica

rhythm guitar

85% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A pristine, shimmering clean tone with a prominent stereo chorus effect, providing warmth and spaciousness.

Signal Chain

Instrument: ESP MX-220 Explorer (or potentially Electra 2236 for intro)

Amp: Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus

Microphone: Shure SM57 / Sennheiser MD 421

Processing: Aphex Parametric EQ, Aphex Exciter, Studio Compression (likely Drawmer or Urei), Roland JC-120 Built-in Chorus

Other: Likely used neck pickup (EMG 60) for warmth. The JC-120's stereo chorus is a key component. Recorded at One on One Recording Studios.

Recording Notes

  • The Roland JC-120 was a staple for James Hetfield's clean tones during this era.
  • Extensive use of studio processing (EQ, compression, exciter) to shape the final sound.
  • The specific guitar used for the intro arpeggio was reportedly an Electra 2236 Flying V copy, though other clean parts likely used his main ESP guitars.
  • Microphone choice and placement contribute significantly to the recorded clarity.

Recreation Tips

  • Use the neck pickup for a warmer, rounder tone.
  • A Roland JC-120 or a high-quality emulation is crucial for the signature chorus.
  • If using pedals, a lush stereo chorus is essential.
  • Keep the gain extremely low for a truly clean sound.
  • Use subtle compression to even out dynamics.
  • Focus on clean, precise fingerpicking or hybrid picking for the arpeggios.

Sources