Metallica uses both distortion and fuzz pedals to achieve their signature sound. However, they are more known for using distortion pedals than fuzz pedals.
In the early days of Metallica, James Hetfield used a ProCo RAT distortion pedal to achieve his signature sound. The RAT is a versatile pedal that can produce a wide range of distortion tones, from mild overdrive to heavy distortion. Hetfield also used a Boss Super Overdrive pedal for additional gain and saturation.
In the 1990s, Metallica began using Mesa/Boogie amplifiers, which are known for their high-gain distortion tones. Hetfield also began using a variety of other distortion pedals, such as the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive and the Ibanez Tube Screamer.
Lars Ulrich, Metallica’s drummer, also uses distortion pedals to achieve his signature sound. Ulrich uses a Boss DD-8 Delay pedal to create a distorted echo effect on his snare drum.
Metallica’s signature sound is characterized by its thick, saturated distortion. However, they also use fuzz pedals on occasion to create a more aggressive sound. For example, Hetfield used a fuzz pedal on the song “Enter Sandman” to create the iconic guitar riff.
Here are some specific examples of distortion and fuzz pedals that Metallica has used over the years:
- Distortion pedals: ProCo RAT, Boss Super Overdrive, MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive, Ibanez Tube Screamer
- Fuzz pedals: Big Muff Pi, EHX Nano Muff Pi
It is important to note that Metallica’s sound has evolved over the years. They have experimented with different amplifiers, guitars, and pedals to achieve their signature sound. As a result, it is difficult to say definitively which distortion and fuzz pedals they use today.
However, it is clear that Metallica is a band that is not afraid to experiment with different sounds. They are always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of metal music.
