What guitar did Periphery use on it only smiles?

Periphery used an Ibanez Universe UV777 for the rhythm guitar parts on "it only smiles." This is a 7-string guitar that allows for the extended low-end range characteristic of Periphery's sound.

How to get Periphery's rhythm guitar tone?

Start with a high-gain amp like a Peavey 5150, use a Tube Screamer as a boost with the gain low and level high to tighten the low end. Record with an SM57 microphone and use EQ to enhance clarity in the high-mid range while cutting muddy frequencies.

What amp does Periphery use for heavy rhythm tones?

Periphery used a Peavey 5150 amplifier for the rhythm guitar tone on "it only smiles." The 5150 is known for its aggressive high-gain capabilities and tight low-end response, making it popular in modern metal.

Why do metal guitarists use Tube Screamer with high gain amps?

The Tube Screamer acts as a boost rather than an overdrive when used with high-gain amps, tightening the low end and adding mid-range focus. This prevents muddiness and helps the guitar cut through dense metal mixes while maintaining articulation during fast, complex riffing.

What microphone is best for recording metal guitar cabinets?

The Shure SM57 is the industry standard for recording guitar cabinets in metal, as used on this Periphery track. It handles high sound pressure levels well and captures a focused, present sound that translates well in heavy mixes.

rhythm guitar from "it only smiles" by periphery

it only smiles

periphery

rhythm guitar

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Tone Profile

The rhythm guitar tone is tight, aggressive, and modern, characterized by a strong mid-range presence and articulate high-end that cuts through the mix. It has a defined and focused sound, suitable for complex rhythm parts and heavy chugging.

Shop This Rig

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Ibanez Universe UV777(instrument)
Peavey 5150(amp)
Shure SM57(microphone)
Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808(processing)

The Story

Periphery's rhythm guitar tone on "it only smiles" was achieved using an Ibanez Universe UV777 through a Peavey 5150 amplifier, with an Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808 used as a boost to tighten the low end. The guitar cabinet was recorded with a Shure SM57 microphone, which is standard for capturing the focused, aggressive sound characteristic of modern metal productions.

Production Credits

Producer: Misha Mansoor

Engineer: Nolly Getgood

Recorded at: Unknown

Signal Chain

Instrument: Ibanez Universe UV777Shop on Reverb

Amp: Peavey 5150Shop on Reverb

Microphone: Shure SM57Shop on Reverb

Processing: Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808Shop on Reverb

Recreation Tips

Start with a high-gain amp like the Peavey 5150 or a similar model.
Use a Tube Screamer or similar overdrive pedal to boost the amp's input, focusing on tightening the low end and adding mid-range.
Experiment with microphone placement on the cabinet to find the sweet spot.
Use EQ to sculpt the tone, focusing on cutting any muddiness and boosting the clarity in the high-mid range.

Original Gear

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Ibanez Universe UV777Shop on Reverb(guitar)
Peavey 5150Shop on Reverb(amp)
Shure SM57Shop on Reverb(mic)
Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808Shop on Reverb(pedal)

Substitutions & Recommendations

EVH 5150III 50W HeadShop on Reverb$1200-$1400

Alternative to: Peavey 5150

Direct evolution of the original 5150 circuit with improved clarity and similar aggressive high-gain character

Neural DSP Fortin Nameless SuitePlugin Boutique$140-$160

Alternative to: Peavey 5150

Digital recreation of modern high-gain amps with similar tight, aggressive characteristics and built-in cab simulation

Boss SD-1 Super OverdriveShop on Reverb$50-$70

Alternative to: Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808

Budget-friendly overdrive that provides similar mid-range boost and low-end tightening when used as an amp boost

Ibanez RG7421Shop on Reverb$400-$500

Alternative to: Ibanez Universe UV777

Modern 7-string Ibanez with similar pickup configuration and extended range capability at a more accessible price point

Maxon OD808Shop on Reverb$150-$180