Metallica, one of the most influential and enduring heavy metal bands in history, is known for their massive, hard-hitting sound. Behind the wall of distortion and thunderous riffs are the amplifiers that have helped shape their iconic tone. In this article, we’ll delve into the amplifiers that Metallica has used throughout their career to create their signature sound.
1. James Hetfield’s Amplifiers
James Hetfield, Metallica’s rhythm guitarist and co-founder, has been a crucial part of the band’s sound since its inception. Over the years, he has relied on various amplifiers to achieve his massive rhythm guitar tones.
a. Mesa/Boogie Mark Series: In the early days of Metallica, James Hetfield used Mesa/Boogie Mark Series amplifiers, particularly the Mark IIC+ model. These amps are known for their distinctive high-gain tones and clarity, making them ideal for tight rhythm playing. The Mark Series contributed to the crunchy and articulate rhythm sound heard on classic albums like “Master of Puppets.”
b. Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier: Hetfield later transitioned to Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier amplifiers. These amps are celebrated for their immense gain capabilities and tight low end. The Dual Rectifiers became synonymous with Metallica’s aggressive and modern metal sound in the 1990s and beyond.
2. Kirk Hammett’s Amplifiers
Kirk Hammett, Metallica’s lead guitarist, has played a pivotal role in crafting the band’s soaring guitar solos and melodic passages. His amplifier choices have evolved alongside his playing style.
a. Mesa/Boogie Rectifier: Kirk Hammett has primarily used Mesa/Boogie Rectifier amplifiers throughout his Metallica career. These amps are known for their searing lead tones and are particularly well-suited for Hammett’s expressive and virtuosic soloing.
b. Randall Amplifiers: In addition to his Mesa/Boogie amps, Hammett has experimented with Randall amplifiers, including the RM100KH and KH120RH models. These amps have allowed him to explore different tonal possibilities while retaining his distinctive lead sound.
3. Bass Amplifiers: Cliff Burton to Robert Trujillo
Metallica’s bass tone has evolved over the years, from the thunderous rumble of Cliff Burton’s Rickenbacker through Ampeg SVT amplifiers to the modern punch of Robert Trujillo’s Warwick amplifiers. Each bassist has contributed their unique style and tone to the band’s overall sound.
4. Lars Ulrich’s Drum Amplification
While not a guitar amplifier, Lars Ulrich’s drum setup is an integral part of Metallica’s sonic palette. Ulrich’s drum sound has evolved over the years, with various microphones and amplification techniques used to capture the power and energy of his drumming. High-quality microphones, preamps, and amplifiers have been essential in reproducing his dynamic drum sound in the studio and on stage.
Conclusion
Metallica’s amplification choices have played a significant role in shaping their iconic sound. Whether it’s the Mesa/Boogie Mark Series, Dual Rectifiers, or Randall amplifiers used by James Hetfield, the Mesa/Boogie Rectifiers favored by Kirk Hammett, or the diverse array of bass and drum amplification, these components have contributed to Metallica’s enduring legacy in the world of heavy metal. The band’s ability to adapt their gear to suit their evolving musical direction has allowed them to maintain their position at the forefront of the metal genre for over four decades.
