How to Get the System of a Down Guitar Tone

Trying to nail that distinctive System of a Down guitar tone? You’re in the right place. We’ll break down how to capture that raw, edgy sound that makes their music so captivating. We’ll cover everything from gear and settings to playing techniques and tricks. Whether you’re jamming in your garage or playing on stage, these tips will help you embody that quintessential SOAD vibe.

The Gear You Need

Getting the right gear is the first step to achieving the System of a Down tone. While the exact equipment used by Daron Malakian might be out of reach for some, there are plenty of alternatives that can get you pretty close.

• Guitar: Daron’s choice of guitar is often an Ibanez Iceman, but any solid-body electric guitar with humbuckers will do the trick. The humbuckers are crucial for capturing that thick, crunchy sound.
• Amplifier: Malakian frequently uses a Marshall JCM800, known for its robust and powerful distortion. If you can’t get your hands on a Marshall, look for an amp with a good gain channel that can produce a tight, focused distortion.
• Pedals: A good distortion pedal is a must. Look for something with a lot of gain that can maintain clarity and definition. The Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi is a solid choice if you’re going for that fuzzy, gritty sound.

One thing to remember is that while gear is important, it’s not everything. You can spend thousands on equipment, but it won’t make a difference if you don’t know how to use it. The magic lies in how you use your gear, and that’s what we’ll focus on next.

Dialing In the Right Amp Settings

Once you have the right gear, it’s time to fine-tune your amp settings. This is where the magic happens. The right settings can transform your sound from average to awe-inspiring.

• Gain: Crank it up! The System of a Down tone relies heavily on a thick, saturated distortion. Don’t be afraid to push the gain, but be careful not to overdo it. Too much gain can lead to a muddy sound.
• Treble: You want a bright, cutting sound that can cut through the mix. Keep your treble settings fairly high, but not so much that it becomes harsh.
• Midrange: Here’s where you can experiment. Daron’s tone has a pronounced midrange, so try boosting the mids slightly to see how it affects your overall sound.
• Bass: A strong bass presence is essential for that full-bodied sound. Don’t be shy with the bass settings, but make sure it doesn’t overpower the other frequencies.

Remember, these settings are just a starting point. Tweak them according to your personal preference, your guitar, and your amp.

Mastering the Pick Attack

Now that your gear is sorted, let's talk technique. The way you attack the strings plays a huge role in achieving that SOAD sound. It’s not just about strumming; it’s about how you physically interact with the strings.

• Pick Hard: Daron’s aggressive style demands a strong pick attack. Don’t be afraid to really dig into the strings. This gives the sound more bite and presence.
• Pick Angle: Experiment with the angle at which you hold the pick. Tilting the pick slightly can give a sharper attack, which is crucial for those punchy riffs.
• String Gauge: Consider using heavier strings. They require more force to play, which naturally leads to a more aggressive tone. Plus, they stay in tune better when you’re really laying into them.

These tips might take some getting used to, but with practice, you’ll notice a significant difference in your sound.

The Importance of Tuning

System of a Down is known for using various tunings, which contribute immensely to their unique sound. Daron Malakian often uses drop C tuning, but other tunings like drop D and standard tuning with low string adjustments are also used.

• Drop C Tuning: This tuning is C-G-C-F-A-D from low to high. It provides a heavier, deeper sound that’s perfect for those chunky riffs.
• Experiment with Tunings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tunings. Even a slight change can introduce new sonic possibilities and help you find your own unique sound.

Using alternative tunings can be tricky at first, especially if you’re used to standard tuning. But once you get the hang of it, it opens up a whole new world of creativity.

Riff Writing and Song Structure

System of a Down’s music is characterized by its unique riff writing and unconventional song structures. Understanding this aspect of their music can help you capture their essence.

• Unpredictable Changes: SOAD songs often shift dramatically in tempo and mood. Incorporating unexpected changes in your riffs can add an interesting dynamic to your music.
• Syncopated Rhythms: These add a layer of complexity and are a staple in SOAD’s music. Practice syncopation to give your riffs that distinct, off-kilter feel.
• Influence from Various Genres: Daron’s riffs draw influences from rock, metal, punk, and even Armenian folk music. Don’t hesitate to mix genres in your writing to create something truly unique.

Writing riffs like System of a Down is an art in itself. It requires creativity and a willingness to push musical boundaries.

Experimenting with Effects

While the core of SOAD’s sound lies in the guitar and amp, effects pedals can add extra layers of depth. Here are some effects that can enhance your sound:

• Reverb: Adds a sense of space to your sound. Use it sparingly to keep the sound tight and focused.
• Delay: Can create interesting textures and make solos more expansive. A subtle delay can add depth without muddying the sound.
• Chorus: Used subtly, it can thicken your sound and add richness to clean tones.

Effects should enhance your sound, not overwhelm it. Use them to complement your playing, not to cover up mistakes.

Recording and Mixing Tips

Once you’ve nailed down your tone and playing style, it’s time to talk recording. Capturing that live energy in a recording can be challenging, but there are a few tricks you can use.

• Mic Placement: Experiment with different mic placements when recording your amp. Even a small adjustment can make a big difference in the sound.
• Double Tracking: Recording the same guitar part twice and panning them left and right can create a massive, full sound.
• EQ: Use EQ to carve out space for each instrument in the mix. Cut frequencies that clash and boost those that add character to your guitar.

The recording process is all about experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works for you.

Practicing with Purpose

To truly master the System of a Down guitar tone, practice is key. Focus on the techniques and styles that define their sound.

• Riff Repetition: Practice playing riffs repeatedly to build muscle memory and tightness.
• Metronome Practice: Use a metronome to improve your timing and precision. Start slow and gradually increase the speed.
• Analyze Songs: Listen to System of a Down songs and try to dissect their structure and techniques. This can give you insight into their creative process.

To speed up your learning process, consider checking out Riffhard. Our platform offers lessons from some of the world’s top metal guitarists, helping you refine your rhythm and technique.

Final Thoughts

Capturing the System of a Down guitar tone is a blend of the right gear, settings, technique, and creativity. It’s about hitting that sweet spot where everything comes together. To dive deeper into mastering these skills, Riffhard offers an array of lessons to help you perfect your modern metal guitar playing, bringing you one step closer to that SOAD sound.