How to Get an Entombed Guitar Tone

Getting the guitar tone of Entombed, particularly from their iconic "Left Hand Path" era, can feel like chasing a ghost. That buzzsaw distortion, raw and aggressive, has become legendary in metal circles. So, how do you capture that essence with your setup? Let's break it down, from gear to technique, so you can nail that gritty and distinctive sound.

The Essence of the Entombed Tone

Entombed's tone is all about the chainsaw-like distortion that cuts through the mix with an almost visceral energy. It's not polished or refined; instead, it's raw and unapologetic. This sound became synonymous with the Swedish death metal scene and influenced countless bands. To truly understand this tone, you have to appreciate its core elements: a heavily distorted signal, a mid-scooped EQ, and a blend of rawness with precision.

But what makes it stand out? The secret lies in its simplicity. The band didn't use a ton of effects or complicated setups. They relied on the natural aggression of their playing style and a few key pieces of gear. The result was a sound that feels almost alive, like it's ready to jump out and grab you by the throat.

Choosing the Right Guitar

While the guitar itself might not be the most crucial part of achieving the Entombed tone, it certainly helps to have the right axe in your hands. You'll want something that can handle drop tuning and has a meaty, resonant tone. Typically, guitars with humbuckers are preferred, as they offer a thicker sound that can support the heavy distortion this tone requires.

Consider guitars like the Gibson Les Paul or ESP models, which are known for their robust sound and ability to sustain under high gain. The choice of wood—mahogany, for example—can add warmth to your tone, which might be necessary to balance the cutting high-end of the distortion.

Of course, don't forget the strings. Heavier gauge strings will give you more tension when playing in lower tunings, which is essential for maintaining clarity and preventing a muddy sound. Try starting with .011s or .012s, which should provide a good mix of tension and playability.

The Role of the Boss HM-2 Pedal

If there's one piece of gear that's synonymous with the Entombed tone, it's the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal. This pedal is the cornerstone of that chainsaw sound. The trick is in how you set the controls: most folks will tell you to crank all the knobs to max. Yes, it sounds a bit ridiculous, but this approach is what gives the HM-2 its signature buzzsaw distortion.

Here's a simple setup:

• Level: Max it out for that extra push.
• Low: Full blast to add depth and power.
• High: Crank it to sharpen the tone.
• Distortion: All the way up for raw aggression.

It might seem excessive, but remember, this isn't about subtlety. The HM-2 is meant to overwhelm and dominate the soundscape. Pair this with a decent amp, and you've got the foundation of the Entombed sound. If you're struggling to get your hands on an original Boss HM-2, there are clones and similar pedals on the market that can achieve a comparable tone.

Amplifier Settings and Choices

Choosing the right amp is crucial in capturing the Entombed tone. While the HM-2 pedal does a lot of the heavy lifting, the amp still plays a significant role in shaping the final sound. You're looking for an amp that can handle high gain without losing clarity.

Tube amps are often preferred for their warm, natural breakup, but solid-state amps can also work, especially if you're on a budget. The key is to find an amp with a good clean channel, as the HM-2 will provide all the distortion you need.

When it comes to settings, here are some starting points:

• Bass: Around 3-4 to prevent muddiness.
• Mid: Scooped to about 2-3 for that classic death metal sound.
• Treble: About 6-7 to let the highs cut through.
• Presence: Adjust to taste, but keep it moderate to avoid harshness.

These settings are just a guideline. Feel free to tweak them to suit your gear and personal taste. Remember, the goal is to create a balance where the heavy distortion doesn't overpower the nuances of your playing.

Techniques to Nail the Sound

Gear is only half the battle. The right playing technique is essential for capturing the Entombed sound. It's all about aggression and precision, which means you'll need to focus on your picking and palm muting.

Start with downpicking, a technique that gives your riffs a tight, controlled feel. It might take a while to build the stamina needed for fast, consistent downpicking, but it's worth the effort. Rhythm is king in this style, so keep your movements economical and your timing impeccable.

Palm muting is another crucial element. It allows you to add dynamics and punch to your playing. Practice varying the pressure of your mute to control the amount of sustain and aggression in your sound. The trick is to find the sweet spot where the notes chug with authority without getting too muddy.

Consider checking out Riffhard, where you can find lessons from top metal guitarists on techniques like downpicking and palm muting. They offer insights into how to develop the precision and power needed to emulate the Entombed style.

Experimenting with Tuning

Entombed often played in lower tunings, which added to the heaviness of their sound. Dropping your tuning can give your riffs a darker, more menacing quality. Start by experimenting with drop D or even lower tunings like C standard or B standard.

When tuning down, it's important to adjust your setup to handle the lower string tension. This might mean tweaking your truss rod, adjusting the action, or even widening the nut slots to accommodate heavier strings.

Be mindful of your intonation, as lower tunings can make your guitar go out of tune more easily. Take the time to set your intonation properly, especially if you're switching between multiple tunings regularly. This will ensure your riffs sound tight and in tune, even when you're cranking out those heavy, distorted chords.

Recording Tips for Capturing the Tone

Recording the Entombed tone can be a challenge, as what sounds great in the room might not translate well to a recorded track. Here are a few tips to help you capture that sound in a studio or home recording setup:

• Mic Placement: Experiment with mic placement on your amp. A dynamic mic like the Shure SM57 is a classic choice. Start with the mic centered on the speaker cone and adjust to taste.
• Double-Tracking: Record your guitar parts twice and pan them left and right for a fuller, more immersive sound. This technique adds depth and can help replicate the massive sound of Entombed's recordings.
• EQ Considerations: In the mix, you might need to adjust the EQ to ensure your guitar sits well with other instruments. Be cautious with the low end to avoid a muddy mix.

Don't be afraid to experiment. Sometimes the best results come from unconventional techniques, so trust your ears and be willing to try different approaches to see what works best for your setup.

Maintaining Your Gear

Consistent maintenance of your gear is key to keeping your tone intact. Regularly change your strings, as fresh strings provide better clarity and sustain, which are crucial for the Entombed sound. Additionally, ensure your guitar’s intonation and action are properly set up, especially when using lower tunings.

Clean your pedals and amp regularly to avoid unwanted noise. Dust and grime can build up over time, impacting your sound quality. A quick cleaning can often solve issues that seem more complex.

Finally, consider investing in a noise gate if you're dealing with excessive feedback or hum. The HM-2, while amazing, can introduce some noise due to its high gain. A noise gate can help manage this without sacrificing the raw energy of your tone.

Riffhard: A Resource for Developing Your Metal Tone

If you're serious about developing your skills and tone to match the likes of Entombed, Riffhard offers a treasure trove of resources. With lessons from some of the best modern metal guitarists, you can dive into specific techniques and styles that will enhance your playing and tone.

Riffhard's custom metronome, interactive video lessons, and downloadable tabs provide a comprehensive learning experience that can help you achieve the precision and aggression needed for the Entombed sound. Plus, their focus on rhythm guitar techniques is perfect for anyone looking to nail that heavy, driving sound.

Final Thoughts

Nailing the Entombed guitar tone is about more than just gear—it's an attitude. With the right setup, a Boss HM-2, and a bit of experimenting, you can achieve that raw, chainsaw-like distortion that defines the sound. Remember, Riffhard is here to help you refine your techniques and develop your unique voice in metal guitar. Dive into their lessons and let your riffs roar with the power and aggression of Entombed.