How to Get an Avenged Sevenfold Guitar Tone

Getting the Avenged Sevenfold guitar tone is like trying to capture lightning in a bottle. This iconic sound, characterized by its rich, full-bodied distortion and shimmering clean tones, has inspired countless guitarists to pick up their axes and play. In this guide, we’ll break down the elements that contribute to this signature tone and offer practical tips on how you can replicate it with your own gear. Ready to rock? Let’s dive in!

The Gear: Choosing the Right Tools for the Job

Avenged Sevenfold’s guitar tone is heavily influenced by the gear used by guitarists Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance. While you might not have the exact same equipment, understanding their choices can help you get closer to their sound.

Guitars

Synyster Gates is known for his custom Schecter guitars, often equipped with Seymour Duncan Invader pickups. These high-output pickups provide the aggressive tone needed for metal, while still offering clarity for solos. If you’re looking to get close to this tone, consider a guitar with similar pickups. You don’t need to break the bank, but investing in a solid guitar with quality pickups can make a big difference.

Amplifiers

The band has been known to use amps like the Peavey 6505 and the Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier. These amplifiers are famous for their powerful distortion and dynamic range, which are crucial for achieving the heavy yet articulate tone Avenged Sevenfold is known for. While these amps can be pricey, there are affordable alternatives like the Bugera 6262 or even digital modelers that emulate these famous tones.

Effects Pedals

Effects play a significant role in shaping the Avenged Sevenfold sound. A good overdrive pedal can help push your amp’s distortion to the next level, while a chorus pedal adds depth and shimmer to clean tones. Reverb and delay are also used to add space and dimension, particularly in solos. Some popular choices include the Boss DD-7 for delay and the MXR Carbon Copy for analog warmth.

Dialing in Your Amp Settings

Getting the right amp settings is crucial. Start by setting your amp to a high-gain channel. You’ll want the gain to be high but not maxed out to maintain clarity. Here’s a starting point for your settings:

• Gain: 6-7
• Bass: 5-6
• Mid: 3-4
• Treble: 6-7
• Presence: 5-6

These settings provide a tight, punchy sound with enough clarity for solos. Adjust according to your specific amp and room acoustics. Remember, every room and amp is different, so trust your ears!

Strings and Tuning: Getting the Right Feel

Avenged Sevenfold often tunes down to Drop D or D Standard to achieve a heavier sound. This lower tuning also requires heavier gauge strings to maintain tension and intonation. A set of 10-52 gauge strings is a good starting point. If you’re new to heavier strings, they might feel a bit stiff at first, but they’re essential for getting that chunky, aggressive sound.

Playing Style: The Heart of the Tone

Gear is only part of the equation. The way you play has a huge impact on your tone. Both Synyster and Zacky have a unique style that combines precise picking with aggressive strumming. Focus on developing tight, controlled alternate picking for riffs, and practice fast, articulate solos with a metronome. Consistent practice is key, and if you need more guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists to help refine your technique.

Using Effects Creatively

Avenged Sevenfold doesn’t just use effects; they use them creatively. For instance, subtle delay and reverb can add depth to solos without muddying the sound. Experiment with modulation effects like chorus and phaser to add movement to your clean tones. The key is to use effects sparingly and purposefully, enhancing rather than overshadowing your playing.

Recording Tips for Capturing the Tone

If you’re recording your guitar, capturing the Avenged Sevenfold tone involves more than just setting up a mic in front of your amp. Here are some tips:

• Mic Placement: Experiment with mic placement to capture different tonal characteristics of your amp. Placing a dynamic mic like the Shure SM57 directly in front of the speaker cone will capture a bright, aggressive sound. Moving it off-axis or back a bit can soften the tone.
• Double Tracking: Record your guitar parts twice and pan them left and right in the mix. This creates a fuller, more powerful sound.
• Post-Processing: Use EQ and compression sparingly to enhance your tone without losing its natural character. A slight boost around 2kHz can add presence, while a cut at 500Hz can reduce muddiness.

Learning from the Pros

One of the best ways to learn is to study how the pros do it. Avenged Sevenfold’s guitarists have unique playing styles that contribute to their signature tone. Listening closely to their recordings can reveal nuances in their playing and tone. Additionally, watching live performances can provide insights into their gear and settings. If you’re serious about mastering their style, consider checking out lessons from experienced instructors. At Riffhard, we have lessons from some of the best guitarists in the metal genre, offering insights into techniques and tone shaping.

Modelling and Software Solutions

In today’s digital age, software amp simulators have become incredibly sophisticated. Plugins like Line 6 Helix Native or Neural DSP’s Archetype series offer excellent modeling of classic amps and effects. These tools can be a great way to experiment with Avenged Sevenfold’s tone without investing in expensive gear. They’re also perfect for home recording, offering a range of sounds at your fingertips.

Final Thoughts

Crafting an Avenged Sevenfold guitar tone combines the right gear, settings, and playing style. While replicating their exact sound can be challenging, the journey can be just as rewarding. Remember, tone is personal, so feel free to experiment and make it your own. And if you’re looking for further guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists, helping you hone your skills and refine your sound. Rock on!