How to Get a Deftones Guitar Tone

Creating that signature Deftones guitar tone is something many guitarists strive for. It’s a sound that’s both heavy and atmospheric, complex yet accessible—a bit like trying to capture lightning in a bottle. If you’ve ever found yourself mesmerized by Deftones’ music, you’re not alone, and I’m here to help you get closer to replicating that unique sound. We’ll break down the gear, settings, and techniques you need to nail it. Let’s get into the details and bring some of that Chino Moreno magic to your own playing.

The Foundation: Gear and Setup

Before we talk about technique, let’s tackle your gear. The Deftones’ sound is heavily dependent on the right setup. Stephen Carpenter, the band’s guitarist, has used a variety of equipment over the years, but there are a few constants that define his tone.

Guitars

Stephen is known for his love of seven and eight-string guitars, which offer a broader range of notes and allow for those low, chuggy riffs Deftones are famous for. He often plays ESP guitars, specifically models that are custom-made to suit his style. However, you don’t need an ESP or even a seven-string to start experimenting. A good six-string with a thick set of strings can still get you close. Just make sure your guitar is set up for lower tunings, as Deftones often use C, Drop C, or even lower tunings like G#.

Amps and Effects

Stephen’s amp of choice tends to be the Diezel VH4, known for its high-gain and versatile tone. If you don’t have access to a Diezel, don’t worry. A high-gain amp head with a good distortion channel can still do the trick. Look for something that offers a tight low end and clear mids.

As for effects, a few essentials will help you shape your sound. Reverb and delay are key for those ambient, spacey parts. Consider adding a chorus pedal for texture, and a noise gate is crucial for keeping your sound tight, especially when you’re playing those heavy, muted riffs.

Dialing in Your Amp: Finding That Sweet Spot

With your gear in place, let’s talk about amp settings. The goal here is to find a balance between heaviness and clarity. Deftones’ music is layered, so you want your tone to cut through without being muddy.

Basic Settings

• Gain: High, but not maxed out. You want enough grit for heavy parts without losing note definition.
• Bass: Keep it tight. Too much can make your sound muddy. Dial it back if needed.
• Mids: Don’t scoop them completely. Deftones’ sound benefits from a bit of midrange punch.
• Treble: High enough to add clarity, but not so much that it becomes harsh.

Experimenting with Effects

Use your reverb and delay pedals to add depth. A subtle reverb can make your tone feel more expansive, while delay can add an echo that works well for both lead and rhythm parts. Remember, subtlety is key—too much can overwhelm your sound.

Techniques: The Heart of Deftones’ Sound

Now that your gear is set up, it’s time to focus on playing techniques that capture the Deftones vibe. Stephen Carpenter’s style blends heavy riffs with melodic passages, and understanding this balance is crucial.

Dynamic Picking

Stephen’s playing is characterized by heavy palm-muted riffs interspersed with open, ringing chords. Practice alternating between these techniques to build the dynamic contrast that’s essential to Deftones’ sound. Use a metronome to keep your timing tight, and focus on clean, precise picking.

Chord Voicings

Experiment with different chord voicings. Open chords with added extensions like 7ths and 9ths can add a haunting quality to your playing. Don’t be afraid to break away from traditional power chords and explore more complex shapes.

Harmonizing Melodies

Stephen often layers melodies over his riffs. Try playing single-note lines that complement your chord progressions. You can use effects like chorus to give these lines a dreamy, ethereal quality.

Tuning: The Low Down

Tuning plays a significant role in achieving the Deftones sound. Stephen is known for using a variety of tunings, often going lower than standard to give his riffs more weight.

Drop C Tuning

One of the most common tunings Deftones use is Drop C (C-G-C-F-A-D). This tuning allows you to play heavy riffs with ease, thanks to the lowered sixth string. Tune your guitar down and play around with some simple power chords to get a feel for the tuning’s unique sound.

Other Tunings

Stephen isn’t afraid to experiment with unconventional tunings. Try tuning your guitar down even lower to Drop B or G# standard. Play around and see what resonates with you. The goal is to find a tuning that inspires creativity and feels comfortable to play.

Layering: Building a Wall of Sound

Deftones’ music often features multiple guitar tracks layered together to create a dense, immersive sound. While you may not have access to a full studio, you can still experiment with layering at home.

Recording Basics

If you have recording software, try laying down several guitar tracks. Start with a base rhythm track, then add harmonies, melodies, or additional riffs. Pan these tracks left and right for a stereo effect that fills out the mix.

Don’t have recording software? No problem. You can still experiment with layering by playing along with a looper pedal. Record a rhythm part, then play leads or harmonies over it to get a feel for how the parts interact.

Riff Writing: Channeling the Deftones Spirit

When writing your own riffs in the Deftones style, think about contrast and emotion. Their music is often heavy yet melodic, aggressive yet haunting.

Contrasting Dynamics

Mix heavy riffs with softer, more melodic passages. This contrast is a hallmark of their sound. Use clean tones for softer parts, then switch to high-gain settings for heavier sections.

Emotional Expression

Deftones’ music is emotionally charged, and your playing should reflect that. Experiment with different techniques to convey emotion, whether it’s through bends, slides, or vibrato. Feel the music as you play, and let that emotion guide your riff writing.

Using Riffhard to Hone Your Skills

At Riffhard, we offer lessons that can help you master the techniques needed to capture the Deftones sound. Our instructors are some of the best modern metal guitarists, and they share insights into rhythm playing, riff writing, and more. Whether you’re looking to refine your picking technique or explore new tunings, our lessons provide valuable guidance.

The Shredule is a bi-weekly lesson plan that can help you stay on track and progress steadily. We also have a custom metronome designed for guitar practice, which is perfect for those intricate Deftones-style riffs.

Playing with Others: Jamming and Collaboration

Deftones’ music often features interplay between guitar parts, and playing with others can help you develop a similar dynamic. Whether it’s with a band or just a fellow guitarist, collaboration can open new doors in your playing.

Jam Sessions

Organize jam sessions where you can experiment with Deftones-style riffs and tones. Share ideas and build off each other’s creativity. Pay attention to how different parts interact and support one another.

Collaboration Tools

If you can’t meet in person, consider using online collaboration tools to share ideas and tracks. Programs like GarageBand or Ableton Live allow you to exchange files and build songs together, even from a distance.

Staying Inspired: Keeping the Deftones Flame Alive

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, but staying inspired is key to capturing the Deftones sound. Here are a few tips to keep the creative juices flowing:

• Listen to Their Music: Regularly listen to Deftones’ albums to stay connected to their sound and vibe.
• Explore Other Artists: Branch out and listen to other bands that share similar influences. This can provide new ideas and perspectives.
• Attend Live Shows: If possible, see Deftones live or watch concert footage. Seeing them perform can reignite your passion and give you new insights into their style.

Final Thoughts

Capturing the Deftones guitar tone is all about finding the right balance between gear, technique, and creativity. With the right setup and a bit of experimentation, you can get closer to that iconic sound. At Riffhard, we’re here to help you along the way with lessons from some of the best in the business. Dive into our resources and start crafting your own Deftones-inspired sound today.