【ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando)】How to Recreate the SEX MACHINEGUNS Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

Introduction (Overview of Tone)

ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando), guitarist and vocalist of SEX MACHINEGUNS, is renowned for his unique musical style that fuses the heaviness of metal with a comical worldview.

His guitar playing is characterized by overwhelming picking precision based on speed playing, sharp power chord delivery, and live performances where he simultaneously handles guitar and vocals.

Essential to discussing ANCHANG’s sound is his tone design influenced by 1980s-90s heavy metal and his use of numerous ESP signature models that create visually striking stage presence.

Representative songs include “Mikan no Uta,” “Famires Bomber,” and “Sakurajima,” all dominated by sharp cutting and heavy riffs.

Additionally, despite losing parts of his index and middle fingers on his right hand in a childhood accident, he overcame this challenge to establish an overwhelming speed playing style, which is why many guitarists respect him.

In terms of tone creation, his setup is characterized by Hughes & Kettner amplifiers as the foundation, balancing rawness with clarity of articulation.

His sound is not merely distorted but structured to faithfully capture playing nuances, creating impressively balanced tones both live and in recordings.

This article will provide detailed explanations of how to approach his sound based on ANCHANG’s gear.

The latter half of the article covers alternative gear that can achieve similar sounds at relatively affordable prices, as well as specific EQ and mixing techniques, making it essential reading for both professional-minded players and those wanting to start cover bands.

▶ Search official YouTube videos of SEX MACHINEGUNS

List of Amplifiers and Features【SEX MACHINEGUNS・ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando)】

Throughout his career, SEX MACHINEGUNS’ ANCHANG has consistently used Hughes & Kettner amplifiers.

Particularly famous is the “Black Spirit 200” series, which has been adopted for both stage and recording from his debut to the present day.

This amplifier reproduces sound equivalent to tube amplifiers using analog modeling technology, enabling the recreation of classic HR/HM sounds from the 80s-90s in today’s era.

ANCHANG himself has stated, “It’s closest to the 80s metal sound I grew up with,” placing strong trust particularly in its midrange projection and responsiveness to fast picking.

Furthermore, considering portability and quick setup for live performances, he has also introduced the “BLACK SPIRIT 200 FLOOR.”

This model houses circuitry equivalent to the regular head type in a floor format, with integrated amplifier and MIDI controller, making it easy to place at the front of the stage with excellent on-stage operability.

Thus, his amplifier selection can be said to have three axes: “classic metal reproduction,” “live performance capability,” and “operability.”

While there are traces of using Hughes & Kettner’s TriAmp in the past, he has currently unified to the Black Spirit series.

In studio recording, it’s believed he uses a combination of line recording and cabinet miking, adjusting thickness and presence during mixing, as can be reasonably assumed.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Search URL	Artist	Guitarist	Notes
Black Spirit 200	Hughes & Kettner	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Current main amp head for live and recording. Reproduces classic HR/HM sound with analog circuitry.
BLACK SPIRIT 200 FLOOR	Hughes & Kettner	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Floor-type Black Spirit. Integrated with MIDI board, offering high operability on live stages.
TriAmp MKII (Estimated past use)	Hughes & Kettner	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Usage confirmed in past live photos, but not currently in use.

Tone Settings, EQ, and Mixing Approaches【SEX MACHINEGUNS・ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando)】

SEX MACHINEGUNS’ ANCHANG sound represents an extremely well-balanced heavy metal sound where “attack clarity that utilizes precise picking,” “separation in the midrange,” and “low-end processing that suppresses flashiness” work in perfect harmony.

First, what should be noted about his amp settings is the utilization of the Hughes & Kettner Black Spirit 200’s multi-channel configuration for CH switching.

For normal rhythm backing, it’s assumed he uses the “Lead” channel as a base, with Gain set around 6.5-7.0, Bass at 5, Mid at 6-7, and Treble around 6.5-7.

This setting emphasizes the midrange that gives punch to riffs without losing speed, supporting unity with the rhythm section.

During solo play, he switches to the “Ultra” channel, raising Presence and Resonance to reinforce sound projection. This allows string articulation to emerge clearly, ensuring the sound reaches the audience without stress.

Regarding EQ, the use of the Artec SE-EQ8 appears to provide flexible correction according to venue characteristics for each live performance.

Particularly, by slightly suppressing the 100Hz-250Hz range that overlaps with bass drum and bass frequencies, and gently boosting the mid-high range (2kHz-4kHz), he clarifies picking attack and speed playing articulation.

With SD-1 preamp boost, it can be assumed that he slightly raises the Tone setting to ensure the overall frequency range doesn’t get buried.

In the mixing stage, guitar stereo positioning is not fixed to center but basically constructed with double-tracking spread L/R. This is to ensure clarity during speed playing and articulation within the ensemble.

Additionally, spatial effects are kept to a minimum, maintaining a dry, core-focused sound image that doesn’t compromise unity with the rhythm section.

During recording, he uses a combination of Black Spirit line output and cabinet miking, creating extremely dense sound through the blend of line signal’s high resolution and microphone-captured air movement.

Overall, ANCHANG’s tone creation is achieved through “meticulous setting accumulation” rather than “pushing with quantity,” with the perfect match between his playing ability and equipment being the most distinctive feature.

Through such settings and processes, that sharp and energetic SEX MACHINEGUNS sound is created, as can be reasonably assumed.

Affordable Alternatives to Recreate the Tone【SEX MACHINEGUNS・ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando)】

While expensive ESP signature models and Hughes & Kettner flagship amplifiers are ideal for achieving ANCHANG’s sharp metal sound like SEX MACHINEGUNS, we’ll introduce cost-effective alternative equipment for those who cannot invest that much budget.

First, regarding guitars, ESP’s budget brands “EDWARDS” and “GrassRoots” have released models inspired by ANCHANG STAR in the past, which are available at relatively affordable prices in the used market.

Particularly, the “EDWARDS Les Chang CTM” mimics ANCHANG’s ESP Les Chang model specifications, featuring thick and well-articulated tones, recommended for those wanting Les Paul-type guitars.

For amp simulators, BOSS multi-effects units like “GT-100” and “GX-100” are extremely effective.

They include Hughes & Kettner-style modeling, SD-1 overdrive modeling, and GE (Graphic EQ), making it possible to sufficiently recreate ANCHANG’s midrange projection and speed characteristics.

As a more affordable option, the “NUX MG-300” is also excellent. Despite costing around $200, it offers tube-like sound character and high EQ adjustment freedom, capable of reproducing SD-1-like drive characteristics.

For standalone overdrive, the BOSS SD-1 itself can be purchased new for around $100 and remains a timeless classic recommended even for beginners.

Regarding tuners, budget models of KORG pitchblack like “pitchclip” also have sufficient precision and response speed for live performance.

The following table specifies reproduction capability, price range, and selection reasoning for each item.

Type	Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Search URL	Artist	Guitarist	Notes
Guitar	EDWARDS E-LP “Les Chang” CTM	EDWARDS	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Sibling model of ESP Les Chang. Les Paul-type with good compatibility for power chords.
Multi-Effects	GT-100	BOSS	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	High-precision tone creation with SD-1 modeling and GE. Can reproduce Black Spirit-like sound image.
Overdrive	SD-1 SUPER OverDrive	BOSS	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Actually used by the artist. Classic among classics used by many professionals despite low cost.
Multi-Effects	MG-300	NUX	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Available around $200. High reproduction of distortion and EQ, suitable for both practice and live performance.
Tuner	pitchclip	KORG	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	KORG clip tuner. Affordable yet high-precision, sufficient for live use.

Effects and Pedalboard Setup【SEX MACHINEGUNS・ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando)】

ANCHANG’s effects configuration is extremely simple yet practical, with a style that emphasizes “how to create sound through one’s own picking.”

The main distortion effect uses BOSS’s legendary “SD-1 SUPER OverDrive,” which serves as the foundation of ANCHANG’s sound.

The SD-1, while being an overdrive, combines fuzz-like momentum with dynamics that have minimal compression, maintaining exquisite articulation when combined with high-gain amplifiers.

Particularly when used with the Hughes & Kettner Black Spirit 200, it achieves tight yet three-dimensional distortion.

For equalization, he uses the cost-effective “Artec SE-EQ8.” By finely adjusting the EQ curve, he can make corrections according to PA conditions and venue characteristics.

This equipment is quietly used in professional settings, and ANCHANG similarly appears to use it for “reinforcing the core of the sound.”

For pitch stability during live performances, he uses the “KORG pitchblack” tuner, characterized by fast and highly accurate response, reliable for stage use.

Overall, ANCHANG’s board follows a minimal configuration of distortion → EQ → tuner, notably avoiding diverse effects.

This can be called ANCHANG’s philosophy of “maximizing the character of the guitar body and amplifier.”

While the variety of effects is minimal, each is designed to properly handle his speed playing, bridge muting, and riff construction, as can be reasonably assumed.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Search URL	Artist	Guitarist	Effect Type	Notes
SD-1 SUPER OverDrive	BOSS	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	オーバードライブ	Classic OD with old-school texture. Used with Black Spirit to emphasize tone projection.
SE-EQ8	Artec	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	イコライザー	Cost-effective EQ. Used for midrange reinforcement and venue-specific fine adjustments.
pitchblack	KORG	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	チューナー	High-precision, fast-response stage tuner. Pedal-type with high operability.

Types of Guitars Used and Features【SEX MACHINEGUNS・ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando)】

When discussing ANCHANG’s guitars, the ESP signature model “ANCHANG STAR” series is undoubtedly the iconic presence.

He receives support from ESP and uses an impressive 20+ custom models, all excelling in live performance and sound characteristics.

The most representative model is the “ESP ANCHANG STAR -Dokuro Yoshie-” (Skull Yoshie). This guitar is based on a homemade guitar he modified with paper clay during high school, which ESP officially remade, featuring spectacular body decorations depicting skulls and skeletal structures.

This guitar has been used since his indie days and continues to appear frequently in encore songs even after his major debut, making it truly his “origin” guitar.

Additionally, the visually impactful “ESP ANCHANG STAR -Lightning Star-” and “BLACK STAR,” designed for stage impact, also appear frequently, each with different visual and setting characteristics.

Les Paul-type guitars like “ESP Les Chang” and “An Paul” are also used strategically according to song tones, skillfully utilizing ESP’s bolt-on, set-neck, and neck-through constructions to draw out diverse tonal colors.

The “ESP ANCHANG STAR -Dokuro Yoshie-” released as a complete custom order model from ESP remains highly popular among fans despite limited sales and is currently traded at premium prices.

In recent tours and events, the “METAL DRIVER,” “W-Hellion,” and “KAMIKAZE” series have also been confirmed, featuring specifications that combine visual impact with metallic, sharp high-gain sound.

ANCHANG’s guitar selection is meticulously designed based not only on visual impact but also on tonal balance, weight, and response during play, as can be reasonably assumed.

Gear Name	Brand	Amazon Search URL	Artist	Guitarist	Guitar Type	Notes
ESP ANCHANG STAR -Dokuro Yoshie-	ESP	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Signature Custom	ANCHANG’s origin guitar. Used since indie days. Limited production model.
ESP ANCHANG STAR -Lightning Star-	ESP	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Signature Custom	Lightning-motif model with strong visual effects. Specialized for live impact.
ESP ANCHANG STAR -BLACK STAR-	ESP	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Signature Custom	Black-based simple appearance with powerful sound pressure characteristics.
ESP Les Chang	ESP	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Les Paul Type	Used for songs requiring thicker sound. Sister model “An Paul” also exists.
ESP ANCHANG STAR -METAL DRIVER-	ESP	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Signature Custom	Specifications optimized for metal sound. Achieves hard sound pressure.
ESP AX -ANCHANG 35th Anniversary-	ESP	Amazon Search	SEX MACHINEGUNS	ANCHANG	Anniversary Model	Special model created to commemorate 35th anniversary. Limited specifications with high artistic value.

Summary and Conclusion【SEX MACHINEGUNS・ANCHANG (Hiroshi Ando)】

SEX MACHINEGUNS’ ANCHANG’s guitar sound represents a unique metal sound that exquisitely balances “sharpness,” “clarity,” and “weight” rather than just harsh distortion.

The essence of his tone creation lies first in picking nuances backed by high playing technique and simple equipment configuration chosen to maximize those nuances.

As represented by the ESP ANCHANG STAR series signature models, all guitars deliver high performance in both visual and sonic aspects, achieving both visual impact and sharp sound on live stages.

The amplifier setup centers on the Hughes & Kettner Black Spirit 200, offering tube amp-like sound pressure and response while also excelling in portability and practicality – a rational choice.

Effects are kept to the absolute minimum with BOSS SD-1 and Artec EQ, thoroughly implementing tone creation centered on guitar-amplifier interaction.

The attitude of emphasizing “sound created by the player themselves” is evident in every equipment selection.

Additionally, the background of overcoming the handicap of losing fingers on his right hand in childhood and building his current playing style is undoubtedly one reason why his sound possesses “core conviction.”

In terms of sound direction, while based on classic metal from the 80s-90s, he combines somewhat comical and approachable musicality, making him a guitarist who maximizes entertainment value through metal.

When imitating his tone creation, it’s important to adjust based on understanding the sound’s purpose (tightness, clarity, attack) rather than being particular about equipment brands or specifications.

Beginners should start with BOSS SD-1, multi-effects units, and ESP subsidiary brand models, carefully checking “distortion texture,” “midrange projection,” and “articulation emergence” while approaching ANCHANG’s sound.

Overall, despite his “flashy and extreme appearance,” his tone creation is actually supported by delicate hearing and logical construction ability.

This is precisely the core of ANCHANG’s sound that has driven SEX MACHINEGUNS’ musicality and the reason why many guitarists want to emulate him, as can be definitively stated.

▶ Check ANCHANG’s (@metal_anchang) official Instagram