[Kirk Hammett] How to Recreate the Metallica Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

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Introduction (Overview of Tone)

Kirk Hammett is renowned as the lead guitarist of the globally acclaimed heavy metal band Metallica. His playing style is characterized by rapid-fire solos, intense riffs, and a passionate use of the wah pedal, all of which are crucial elements that underpin Metallica’s sound. Iconic songs such as “Enter Sandman,” “Master of Puppets,” and “One” showcase sharp riffs and soaring lead guitar lines that leave a lasting impression. During live performances, his energetic use of the wah pedal captivates audiences, further enhancing his distinctive style.

Hammett’s sound is primarily built around high-gain amplifiers from brands like Mesa/Boogie and Randall, along with a range of guitars centered on the ESP KH series. His signature wah pedal, the Crybaby KH95, has become a staple for fans and is essential for achieving his signature sound. Additionally, he utilizes the Ibanez Tube Screamer and overdrive pedals from KHDK Electronics, a brand he co-founded, to create sounds tailored to each song.

This combination of elements allows Kirk Hammett to deliver a unique lead guitar performance within Metallica’s heavy and aggressive sonic landscape. Therefore, to recreate his sound, one must consider not only the selection of guitars, amplifiers, and effects but also the expressive use of the wah pedal and control of dynamics.

▶ Search official YouTube videos of Metallica

List of Amplifiers and Features

Throughout his career, Kirk Hammett has used various amplifiers that symbolize the evolution of Metallica’s sound over the decades. In the early 1980s, he primarily used the Marshall JCM800 2203, which supported the raw sound of albums like “Kill ‘Em All” and “Ride the Lightning.” The drive of the JCM800 is particularly notable for accentuating tight, speedy riffs. As the 1990s rolled in, he shifted to Mesa/Boogie’s Dual Rectifier and Triple Rectifier for live performances and recordings, resulting in a more modern and thicker metal sound.

The Mesa/Boogie Tremoverb Combo and Stiletto have been utilized in studio settings, achieving a diverse range of sounds when paired with the Triaxis preamp and 4×12 cabinets equipped with Celestion Vintage 30 speakers. In the 2000s, Hammett introduced signature models developed in collaboration with Randall, such as the KH120RHS and RM100KH, focusing on reliability and stability for live performances. Additionally, a prototype head developed with Fortin has been spotted, delivering the sharpness and low-end strength demanded in modern metal.

Hammett has also experimented with a wide range of amplifiers, including the Bogner Uberschall, Peavey 5150, Vox AC30, Hiwatt Custom 50, and Dumble SSS. While these amplifiers are not necessarily used on Metallica’s main stage, they are believed to be chosen for recording or to achieve specific nuances in certain tracks. As a result, Hammett’s sound can be seen as a blend of “classic metal sounds rooted in Marshall” and “modern, thick tones from Mesa/Boogie and Randall.”

Types of Guitars Used and Features

Kirk Hammett’s guitars are predominantly the signature models from the ESP KH series, which are widely recognized. He primarily uses the ESP KH-2 for live performances, often switching between vintage and limited graphic models for different songs. Notable models like the “Ouija,” “Mummy,” and “Dracula” are popular among fans due to their unique designs and sounds. Typically, these guitars are equipped with EMG pickups (such as the 81/60 or 81/60 Gold), which, when paired with high-gain amplifiers, produce the sharp lead tones characteristic of Metallica.

In addition to ESP, Hammett owns Gibson Flying V and Les Paul Standard/Custom models (including a 1968 version), and he has been seen using a Les Paul for slower songs and a Flying V for faster tracks. The legendary “Greeny” Les Paul, once owned by Peter Green and Gary Moore, has also been used in Metallica’s recordings. Furthermore, he has been known to use a variety of guitars, including the Ibanez RG, Jackson Randy Rhoads, Parker Fly, and Martin D-28 acoustic.

Hammett has also showcased experimental guitars, such as the Teufel Birdfish and Tulsa, on stage, indicating his continuous quest for new sounds. While the ESP KH series remains the mainstay for live performances, his style is characterized by the selection of classic Gibson models and unique custom guitars tailored to specific songs or situations. Thus, Hammett’s guitar choices are supported by a dual foundation of “stable ESP signatures” and “distinctive Gibsons or custom models.”

Effects and Pedalboard Setup

Kirk Hammett is often referred to as the “wah pedal wizard,” as his frequent use of the wah pedal is emblematic of his sound. The signature model he uses is the “Dunlop KH95 Kirk Hammett Crybaby,” which is frequently utilized in both live and studio settings. He has experimented with several wah pedals, including the GCB95, 95Q, and VOX V847, but the KH95 has become the standard in recent years. It is particularly essential for lead playing in songs like “Enter Sandman” and “Sad But True.”

For distortion, Hammett has long favored the Ibanez TS9 and TS808 Tube Screamer, which he uses to boost the midrange and bring his leads forward when paired with Mesa/Boogie and Randall amplifiers. He also employs the BOSS SD-1 and overdrive pedals from KHDK Electronics, which have become central to his modern setup. Additionally, the SOLODALLAS The Schaffer Replica EX Tower is used as a preamp to add a classic compression feel to his sound.

In terms of spatial effects, he incorporates the Line 6 DL4, TC Electronic Flashback X4, and G-Major 2 to add depth to his lead playing through delay and modulation. Particularly in ballads like “One” and “Fade to Black,” he utilizes delay to create expansive solos. Furthermore, the MXR EVH-117 Flanger and Line 6 MM4 and FM4 are used to provide different tonal colors for each song.

Other auxiliary equipment includes the BOSS NS-2 Noise Suppressor for noise management, the Ernie Ball Volume Pedal for volume control, and the DigiTech Whammy WH-1 for pitch shifting. His live board incorporates the Voodoo Lab GCX Audio Switcher, allowing for efficient switching between multiple effects. Professional-grade gear like the Shure UR4D wireless system and Peterson Strobe tuner are also integrated into his setup.

Thus, Hammett’s pedalboard is designed with a simple yet powerful approach: “using wah as the core, with distortion and spatial effects added as needed.” The presence of the wah pedal defines his sound identity, while the addition of delay and flanger allows for nuanced variations in tone across different songs.

Tone Settings, EQ, and Mixing Approaches

One of the most distinctive features of Kirk Hammett’s tone crafting is the “balance of clarity within high gain.” Metallica’s songs are built on James Hetfield’s powerful rhythm guitar foundation, making it essential for Hammett’s leads to stand out. The Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier and Randall signature amps are typically set to slightly emphasize the midrange while avoiding excessive gain. This approach ensures that the high output of the EMG pickups is utilized while maintaining clarity.

As for EQ settings, a common guideline is to set treble around 5-6, mids at 6-7, and bass at about 5, often with a slightly higher presence. During solos, midrange frequencies are emphasized to ensure that leads cut through the heavy low-end provided by the rhythm section. Conversely, when playing more rhythm-oriented parts, the treble is often reduced to maintain a distinct sonic separation from James’s guitar.

To enhance distortion on the pedalboard, the Tube Screamer (TS9 or TS808) is sometimes used as a booster. This adds thickness to the midrange of the amp’s gain, accentuating picking nuances. This is crucial for achieving the aggressive and well-defined tones heard in the transitions from clean to distortion in “One” and during the solos in “Master of Puppets.”

Hammett also employs unique approaches to delay and reverb. For instance, in “Fade to Black” and “Nothing Else Matters,” he uses delay sparingly, applying short delays or slap-back effects to give depth to his leads. This technique ensures that solos remain prominent even in a live setting. Reverb is often adjusted on the PA side, but his pedalboard includes the TC Electronic G-Major 2 for detailed spatial processing.

In mixing, Kirk’s leads are typically placed center-stage, while James’s guitars spread across the left and right channels. In studio recordings, light compression is applied to highlight the attack of the picking, and the SOLODALLAS The Schaffer Replica EX Tower is used to enhance sustain and harmonics. During live performances, the PA engineer adjusts the midrange to ensure that the wah pedal’s presence does not get lost in the mix.

Moreover, Kirk switches amp channels for different songs, flexibly alternating between lead, clean, and rhythm tones to expand his expressive range. For clean tones, he often switches to the front pickup and lowers the volume knob to reduce amp distortion. Conversely, during lead sections, he combines the rear pickup with a boost to achieve a soaring sound. This meticulous control allows his phrases to remain clear even within the high-gain metal sound.

Overall, Kirk Hammett’s sound design revolves around “wah + high-gain amp + midrange-focused EQ,” supplemented by pedals and mixing techniques. This results in a dynamic and expressive lead sound that is both simple and powerful.

Affordable Alternatives to Recreate the Tone

Kirk Hammett’s sound is built around high-end gear like the ESP signature models and Mesa/Boogie and Randall amplifiers, which can be quite expensive. However, there are ways for beginners and intermediate players to achieve a similar tone without breaking the bank. The key points are “substituting high-gain amplifiers,” “using a wah pedal,” and “employing midrange-boosting overdrive pedals.” By combining these elements, one can closely approximate Metallica’s signature lead sound.

For guitars, while the ESP KH models are pricey, the ESP LTD KH-202 is a more affordable signature option. Priced under $1,000, it offers a look and sound similar to the original. Although it does not come with active pickups, upgrading to EMG 81/60 can bring it even closer to the authentic tone.

Regarding amplifiers, while the Mesa/Boogie and Randall models are costly, alternatives like the BOSS Katana series, Line 6 Catalyst, and Peavey Vypyr are effective substitutes. These models feature modeling capabilities that can simulate Mesa Rectifier and Marshall tones. The BOSS Katana, in particular, is well-regarded for its price point and can effectively recreate Metallica-style rhythm and lead sounds.

Next, for effects, a wah pedal is essential. The Dunlop Cry Baby Standard GCB95 is relatively affordable and can replicate the signature wah sound associated with Kirk Hammett. Additionally, the Ibanez TS9 and BOSS SD-1 are excellent midrange-boosting overdrive options that enhance amp distortion and bring leads forward. Furthermore, incorporating a multi-effects unit can allow for the simultaneous recreation of delay, flanger, and other effects.

For multi-effects, options like the Line 6 POD Go and ZOOM G5n offer great cost-performance ratios. These units come equipped with amp simulators and a variety of spatial effects, making them versatile for both practice and live performance. The Line 6 POD Go, especially, includes Mesa Rectifier modeling, making it an excellent choice for recreating Metallica’s tone.

In summary, to recreate Kirk Hammett’s sound on a budget, a combination of “ESP LTD KH series + BOSS Katana or POD Go + Cry Baby + TS9 series pedals” is the most realistic approach. With these tools, you can replicate iconic solos from songs like “Enter Sandman” and “Master of Puppets” right at home.

Summary and Conclusion

In summary, Kirk Hammett’s sound design is defined by “the unique lead expression utilizing the wah pedal” and “the establishment of a modern metal sound through high-gain amplifiers.” In Metallica’s music, he serves not just as a fast-playing guitarist but as a lead voice that “screams” and “sings” over the band’s heavy rhythm guitar wall. As a result, his sound may seem raw and simple when listened to in isolation, but it radiates an overwhelming presence when blended with the overall band sound.

Reflecting on his gear, the diverse lineup of ESP KH series guitars, high-gain amplifiers from Mesa/Boogie and Randall, and wah pedals like the Dunlop Cry Baby are central to his tone. The wah pedal is not merely an effect but a defining element of his playing, integral to the emotional expression in his lead solos. Furthermore, he enhances midrange presence through pedals like the Ibanez TS9 and KHDK overdrive, creating an EQ balance that prevents his leads from getting lost in the rhythm section’s heavy low end.

Another notable aspect of his sound design is his flexibility in changing gear according to the era or tour. From the Marshall sound of the 80s to the Mesa/Boogie sound of the 90s and the Randall signature models of the 2000s, he has maintained a consistent identity without losing the essence of “Metallica.” This reflects a deeper player mindset focused on “how to play and express” rather than just gear selection.

Ultimately, to recreate Kirk Hammett’s sound, one must embrace “the courage to fully utilize the wah pedal,” “the high-gain sound with emphasized midrange,” and “EQ adjustments mindful of the rhythm section.” You don’t need to invest in expensive signature models; with a Cry Baby, a modeling amp, and a midrange-boosting pedal, you can come quite close. Ultimately, what matters most is the awareness to “make the sound sing” and “infuse emotion into the phrases.” This is the essence of Kirk Hammett’s sound design that he continues to demonstrate in Metallica.