Metallica, one of the most iconic and influential heavy metal bands of all time, has consistently been at the forefront of innovation in the world of rock and metal music. Part of their signature sound lies in the amplification and gear they use. This article takes a comprehensive look at the amplifiers Metallica has employed over the years to achieve their powerful, iconic sound.
Metallica’s Shifting Gear: A Historical Perspective
To understand the amplifiers Metallica has used, it’s crucial to take a journey through their history, as their choice of gear has evolved over the years.
- Early Days – 1980s: Metallica’s early days saw the band using a variety of amplifiers. Their debut album, “Kill ‘Em All,” recorded in 1983, featured a mix of Marshall amplifiers, most notably the Marshall JCM800, which became a staple in their sound. These British-made amps were known for their aggressive and crunchy tones.
- Mid to Late 1980s: As the band gained recognition and released albums like “Ride the Lightning” and “Master of Puppets,” they continued to rely on Marshalls, often using a Marshall JMP and the JCM800 series amps. This period marked the peak of their partnership with the Marshall brand.
- 1990s: In the 1990s, Metallica’s sound took a different direction with the release of “The Black Album.” While they still used Marshalls, they began to incorporate Mesa/Boogie amplifiers into their rig. The Mesa/Boogie Mark II C+ and Mark IV amps were especially prominent, contributing to their evolving sound.
- 2000s and Beyond: In the 2000s, Metallica continued to experiment with amplifiers. They occasionally used Bogner Uberschall amps, which are known for their high gain and sonic flexibility. Additionally, they worked with Randall for a time, particularly on their “St. Anger” album.
- The Fractal Audio Era: In more recent years, the band has embraced digital modeling technology. They’ve incorporated Fractal Audio’s Axe-Fx units into their live rig, which allows them to replicate various amplifier tones with a single piece of gear. This move towards digital technology showcases their adaptability and willingness to explore new possibilities.
Signature Amplifiers
In addition to their historical amplifier choices, some signature amplifiers have become synonymous with Metallica’s sound:
- James Hetfield’s Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+: James Hetfield has famously used the Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ amplifier, particularly during the 1990s, contributing to the meaty and aggressive tones heard on albums like “The Black Album.”
- Kirk Hammett’s Randall Century 200: Kirk Hammett experimented with the Randall Century 200 amplifier, especially during the recording of “St. Anger.” This amp is known for its high gain capabilities, which suited the band’s desire for a raw and powerful sound during that era.
- Fractal Audio Axe-Fx: In recent years, both James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett have incorporated the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx into their live setups. These digital modeling units allow them to replicate a wide range of amplifier tones with precision and versatility.
Conclusion
Metallica’s journey through amplifiers reflects not only the evolution of their sound but also their willingness to embrace new technologies and tonal possibilities. While their early days were dominated by the iconic Marshall amplifiers, they have since incorporated Mesa/Boogie, Randall, and digital modeling technologies into their rig. This adaptability and quest for sonic innovation are part of what has kept Metallica at the forefront of the heavy metal genre for over four decades.
It’s worth noting that while amplifiers play a significant role in shaping Metallica’s sound, other factors, including guitars, effects, and production techniques, also contribute to their unmistakable sonic signature. Metallica’s willingness to explore and experiment with different gear is a testament to their enduring creativity and commitment to pushing the boundaries of rock and metal music.