[Sakito] How to Recreate the Nightmare Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

関連記事

[Shunichi Tanabe] How to Recreate the BLUE ENCOUNT Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

2025.09.122025.09.12

【Akagashira Ryuji】How to Recreate the Frederic Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings【Effects & Amps】

2025.09.042025.09.08

[Taiki Kumagai] How to Recreate the Helsinki Lambda Club Sound + Guitar Gear and Tone Settings [Effects & Amps]

2025.09.132025.09.13

Introduction (Overview of Tone)

The guitarist Sakito from the band Nightmare has garnered support since the band’s inception for his unique guitar sound that balances “sharpness and transparency.” His playing style is characterized by hard-hitting, loud riffs combined with beautiful arpeggios and clean tones. Within the band’s songs, he skillfully alternates between drop-tuned riffs that support the low-end and transparent clean arpeggios, adding depth to Nightmare’s musical world.

Iconic sound examples include tracks like “Gyanizumu,” “the WORLD,” and “Raison d’être,” where he showcases tight rhythms and aggressive distortion sounds, while also delivering soaring lead tones during choruses. Additionally, the existence of the “Sho-Ryu-Ken” series, co-developed with ESP, is a crucial point that symbolizes his sound creation.

Much of his gear consists of ESP custom and signature models, equipped with Seymour Duncan pickups like the SSL-1, APTR-1, and TB-11. This combination achieves a fast attack typical of single coils while also providing the thickness associated with humbuckers. Furthermore, he pairs high-gain amplifiers from brands like VHT and Hughes & Kettner, balancing powerful mid-low frequencies with sharp highs.

Sakito’s sound design goes beyond just hard distortion; he cleverly incorporates effects for spatial processing. By using delay and reverb, he creates depth that directly contributes to the grandeur of Nightmare’s music.

In summary, Sakito’s sound creation achieves a unique presence both visually and audibly by balancing “aggressiveness” and “transparency.”

Below, we will delve into the amplifiers, guitars, and effects he uses, along with examples of settings to recreate his tone.

▶ Search official YouTube videos of Nightmare

List of Amplifiers and Features

Sakito’s guitar sound is supported by a collection of high-gain amplifiers that also offer high resolution. He has long favored powerful amplifiers from brands like VHT, Hughes & Kettner, and Bogner, which he pairs with ESP custom guitars and Seymour Duncan pickups. Notably, the VHT Pittbull CLX100 combines tight low-end with sharp highs, delivering the cutting sound necessary for loud rock. During live performances, he combines multiple cabinets to enhance the power and ensures a solid sound image even through the PA system.

The Hughes & Kettner TRIAMP / TRIAMP MKII is particularly appealing due to its multi-channel design, allowing for a wide range of tones from clean to thick leads. Sakito utilizes this flexibility to switch between clean and high-gain sounds instantly, creating the distinct dynamics characteristic of Nightmare.

He also employs the Koch Supernova 120, known for its strong midrange presence, contributing to thick riff sounds. The Bogner Ecstasy Classic is renowned for producing loud yet smooth distortion, enhancing the richness of Sakito’s guitar tones. Recently, he has incorporated the Kemper Profiling Amplifier Profiler PowerRack, which faithfully reproduces past amplifier sounds while ensuring stable performance in digital environments.

For cabinets, he has been confirmed to use combinations like the VHT D412-P50E and Bogner 412SL/412ST, selecting the optimal setup based on the performance environment. These cabinets are known for their rich low-end reproduction and durability, making them reliable choices for both studio and live settings.

Overall, Sakito’s amplifier settings are meticulously crafted to emphasize “sharpness and transparency.” While delivering loud and heavy sounds, he balances the mix to preserve chord clarity and melody, contributing to the overall dimensionality of Nightmare’s music. It is important to note that specific gear used in live performances may vary over time, so the information presented here is based on “confirmed examples and assumptions.”

Types of Guitars Used and Features

When discussing Sakito’s sound creation, it is essential to mention the signature models he co-developed with ESP, particularly the “Sho-Ryu-Ken” series and custom models from the FOREST series. The ESP FOREST-GT Sakito custom, ordered when he was 19, is used in half-step down tuning and features Seymour Duncan SSL-1 and TB-11 pickups. The alder body produces a clear and powerful sound, making this guitar a symbol of his early sound.

Additionally, the modified ESP FOREST-GT, originally see-through black, was repainted white after a neck break. This guitar is used specifically for drop C# tuning and has had its pickups changed to SSL-1 and TB-4, enhancing its modern loud sound.

Sakito’s representative model, the ESP N-SS / N-SS-500 , is a signature model modified to resemble a Les Paul. It features a combination of SSL-1, APTR-1, and APTL3JD single pickups, providing both sharpness and thickness. In some songs, humbuckers are also used to create heavy yet soaring lead tones.

Moreover, there are prototype models like the ESP “Sho-Ryu-Ken” early model and the White&Blackburst model. The White&Blackburst was developed with a Telecaster motif, featuring an ash body and APTR-1 & APTL3JD pickups. The front pickup was later changed to SSL-1 and used in half-step down tuning. The white Sho-Ryu-Ken is dedicated to drop C# tuning, utilizing a through-neck structure and equipped with SSL-1 and SH-13 pickups.

Additionally, the ESP SNAPPER Sakito custom is designed in a Strat style and features a piezo pickup, used in half-step down tuning to recreate clean tones and acoustic-like sounds. The Gibson RD / RD CUSTOM is used in drop B tuning and appears in the representative song “General.” This model was introduced to support its unique low-end and robust riffs.

In summary, Sakito’s guitars are meticulously tailored for each tuning. By utilizing various tunings such as half-step down, drop C#, and drop B, he achieves optimal tones for each song, adding breadth and depth to Nightmare’s sound. These models are rotated in live and recording settings, based on confirmed examples and assumptions.

Effects and Pedalboard Setup

In Sakito’s sound creation, the composition of the effects pedalboard is incredibly important, in addition to the guitar and amplifier. He meticulously controls the signal chain, adjusting gain with boosters and distortion pedals while using delay, reverb, and modulation effects to add depth to his sound. By balancing clean and distorted tones and utilizing spatial effects according to the mood of each song, he expresses Nightmare’s fantastical yet aggressive world.

For distortion, notable pedals include the Fulltone OCD and Mammoth Electronics TS-9 Baked Mod. These pedals boost the amp’s gain, enhancing the power of the riffs. Additionally, combining the Creation Audio Labs Mk.4.23 CLEAN BOOST and Seymour Duncan SFX-01 Pickup Booster ensures that even in clean parts, the sound retains its definition.

In terms of spatial effects, the BOSS DD-20 Digital Delay and Strymon blueSky Reverb are staples, providing a transparent echo that adds dimensionality to arpeggios and solo parts. Furthermore, using special effects like the Line6 MM4 (Modulation Modeler), Electro-Harmonix POG, and Digitech Whammy allows for different nuances in each live performance.

He also pays attention to noise reduction and system management, utilizing the Rocktron Hush to control noise and setting up a loop system with Custom Audio Electronics RS616. This enables him to switch between numerous effects seamlessly. Additionally, he incorporates multi-effects like the BOSS GT-3 and RC-300 looper, instantly calling up effects suited to the moment.

Sakito’s pedalboard can be described as “practical yet playful.” While firmly establishing the foundation of distortion, he colors the sound with spatial and modulation effects, expanding expressiveness through loops and pitch shifts. This complex setup shapes Nightmare’s unique acoustic world on stage. It is important to note that the combination of gear may change from tour to tour, so the information provided here is based on confirmed examples and assumptions.

Tone Settings, EQ, and Mixing Approaches

Sakito’s sound creation is supported by meticulous settings and mixing approaches tailored to the atmosphere of each song, going beyond just “high-gain sound.” He emphasizes overwhelming presence in riffs while maintaining clarity in arpeggios and leads. To balance these opposing elements, he performs very fine adjustments to amp channel switching and EQ settings.

For instance, with the VHT Pittbull CLX100, he sets the gain high while keeping the lows slightly suppressed and boosting the mids to clarify the contours of the riffs. The treble is likely set around 5-6, mids at 6-7, and bass at 3-4, with a higher presence to enhance “cutting clarity.” This results in the loud and sharp sound characteristic of Nightmare.

For clean tones, he uses the clean channel of the Hughes & Kettner TRIAMP, bringing the EQ close to flat and adding reverb or chorus as needed. Sakito aims to maintain a solid sound even in clean parts, likely opting for settings that preserve the attack of his picking.

During lead play, he boosts with the Fulltone OCD or TS-9 Baked Mod, further pushing the mids to ensure clarity during solos. The delay (BOSS DD-20) is set to a short delay of about 300-400ms, adding thickness and depth to the solos. Additionally, a light application of Strymon blueSky creates a fantastical and expansive lead tone.

Another notable aspect is his adjustment of settings for different tunings. In drop C# or drop B, where low-end can become bloated, he further reduces the bass on the amp EQ and uses a noise gate (Rocktron Hush) to cut unnecessary low-end. This ensures that even heavy riffs remain tight and cutting.

Live performances also showcase his clever mic placement on cabinets. By positioning the mic slightly off-center to emphasize attack while avoiding harshness, he achieves a natural sound. On the PA and engineering side, adjustments are often made to ensure Sakito’s guitar “dominates the midrange,” a result of careful consideration of the sound spectrum shared with other band members, contributing to Nightmare’s rich ensemble.

In studio recordings, he utilizes the Kemper Profiling Amplifier to profile past amp sounds, ensuring a stable tone. Double tracking creates a wide stereo image, thickening the riffs like a wall of sound. For arpeggios and clean phrases, he employs the ESP SNAPPER Sakito custom with a piezo pickup, adding an acoustic-like texture. This broadens the overall expressiveness of the songs.

In summary, Sakito’s sound creation revolves around the duality of “aggressiveness and transparency.” The settings for amps and effects consistently emphasize midrange presence while managing lows tightly. Leads are enhanced with delay and reverb for spatial depth, while clean tones respect the nuances of picking. The PA side carries this philosophy, ensuring the guitar maintains a strong presence within the band sound. These insights are based on analyses derived from actual live performances and recordings, with adjustments likely made over time and across tours.

Affordable Alternatives to Recreate the Tone

Sakito’s sound creation is built on ESP custom models, high-end amplifiers, and professional-grade effects, making it practically challenging to replicate the exact gear. However, there are several alternative pieces of equipment available for beginners and intermediate players to get closer to the “Sakito sound.” Here, we focus on products that can be obtained for around $100 to $500.

For amp simulators or multi-effects, the BOSS GT-1000CORE and LINE6 HX Stomp are excellent options. These devices feature diverse amp modeling and effects similar to those used by Sakito in live and recording settings, allowing for approximations of VHT, Bogner, and Hughes & Kettner sounds. Particularly for recreating high-gain sounds like Nightmare, the ability to manage distortion quality and spatial effects collectively is highly effective.

For distortion pedals, the BOSS SD-1 Super OverDrive and Ibanez TS-9 Tubescreamer are suitable choices. Given that Sakito uses a modified TS-9, introducing these for gain boosting can yield a similar character. Setting the main amp to clean and pushing it with the SD-1 or TS-9 allows players to experience the “midrange prominence” characteristic of his solos and riffs.

For spatial effects, the BOSS DD-8 Digital Delay and TC Electronic HOF Mini Reverb are cost-effective options. Combining these two can effectively recreate the echo and dimensionality that Sakito frequently employs. Particularly in arpeggios and lead parts, setting the reverb deeper can help achieve the “fantastical feel” unique to Nightmare.

For beginners looking to experiment with tone control easily, the BOSS EQ-200 Graphic Equalizer is recommended. This is ideal for mimicking Sakito’s emphasis on midrange boost and tight lows, allowing for foundational adjustments regardless of the guitar or amp used.

In summary, the key points for getting closer to Sakito’s sound at an affordable price include “EQ that emphasizes midrange,” “boosting with a booster,” and “spatial expression through reverb and delay.” By focusing on these aspects when selecting gear, players can achieve a sound that closely resembles Sakito’s without needing high-end ESP customs or VHT amplifiers.

Summary and Conclusion

Sakito (Nightmare) can be summarized as achieving a balance between “aggressiveness and transparency” in his sound creation. His sound possesses the strength to overwhelm with heavy riffs while also showcasing delicate resonance through clean tones and arpeggios, supported by a keen sense of balance. It is not simply a matter of connecting to a high-gain amplifier; his meticulous approach involves preparing dedicated guitars for each tuning and utilizing a variety of amplifiers and effects, which is the essence of his sound.

His guitars primarily consist of the “Sho-Ryu-Ken” series developed in collaboration with ESP, along with custom models like the FOREST-GT and SNAPPER, used according to their specific purposes. By preparing dedicated instruments for half-step down, drop C#, and drop B tunings, he consistently extracts optimal tones. Notably, he frequently employs Seymour Duncan pickups, effectively balancing the sharpness of single coils with the thickness of humbuckers.

His amplifiers mainly include high-end equipment from VHT, Hughes & Kettner, and Bogner, achieving a simultaneous presence of “clarity” and “power” through cabinet combinations and EQ adjustments. The introduction of the Kemper Profiling Amplifier allows him to reproduce past sounds while adapting to modern usage, maintaining consistent quality in both live and recording settings.

The diversity of his effects setup is also noteworthy, with foundational distortion shaped by overdrives and boosters, while delay and reverb construct a fantastical atmosphere. The clever use of special effects like Whammy and POG adds variation to each song. This “spatial and playful sound creation” directly connects to Nightmare’s unique worldview.

Overall, the key points for replicating Sakito’s sound include “midrange-focused EQ,” “dedicated settings for each tuning,” “boosting distortion,” and “skillful use of spatial effects.” Even beginners can mimic Sakito’s sound by appropriately combining TS series overdrives, delays, and reverbs.

Many guitarists are inspired by Nightmare’s music and wish to create similar sounds. The important thing is not just to mimic the gear but to understand how Sakito expresses the “worldview of the songs through sound.” His sound creation is not merely a collection of techniques but a “design philosophy” that considers the overall resonance of the song and band, and having this perspective will enable one to get closer to the Sakito sound.

Sakito’s sound is a crucial element that underpins Nightmare’s visuals and worldview, serving as an exciting subject of study for many guitarists. By understanding its essence and applying it to one’s own gear and environment, one can create a “personal Sakito sound” that transcends mere imitation.