Metallica, one of the most influential and successful heavy metal bands of all time, has a distinctive sound that has evolved over the decades. A crucial component of this sound is their choice of amplifiers. Understanding what amps Metallica used offers insight into how they crafted their iconic tone and how it contributed to their legendary status in the metal genre.
1. Early Years and Gear: The Birth of a Sound
In the early 1980s, Metallica’s sound was raw and aggressive, a reflection of their thrash metal roots. During this period, James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett primarily used Marshall amplifiers. Marshall, known for their powerful and crunchy distortion, provided the backbone for Metallica’s early recordings and live performances.
Marshall JCM800
One of the most iconic amplifiers associated with Metallica’s early sound is the Marshall JCM800. The JCM800 series, launched in 1981, became a staple for many metal and rock bands due to its high-gain sound and reliability. James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett both used this amp extensively during the early 1980s, including on their groundbreaking album “Kill ‘Em All” (1983).
The JCM800’s distinct tone, characterized by a sharp, punchy, and aggressive sound, helped define Metallica’s early tracks. Songs like “Seek & Destroy” and “Hit the Lights” showcase the raw power and clarity that the JCM800 brought to their music.
2. Mid to Late 1980s: Refining the Metallica Tone
As Metallica’s music evolved, so did their equipment. The mid to late 1980s saw the band refining their sound, moving towards a more polished and produced tone. This period includes albums like “Ride the Lightning” (1984), “Master of Puppets” (1986), and “…And Justice for All” (1988).
Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+
During this period, Hetfield and Hammett began incorporating Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ amplifiers into their setup. The Mark IIC+ is renowned for its versatile high-gain sound and tight low-end response, making it ideal for the complex, heavy riffs that defined Metallica’s mid-80s sound.
The Mark IIC+ became a cornerstone of Hetfield’s rig, contributing significantly to the crushing rhythm tones on “Master of Puppets” and “…And Justice for All.” Its powerful distortion and clear articulation allowed Metallica to achieve a more refined and precise sound without losing the aggressive edge that characterized their earlier work.
3. The 1990s: The Black Album Era and Beyond
The 1990s marked a new chapter for Metallica with the release of their self-titled album, commonly known as “The Black Album” (1991). This album featured a more mainstream sound with a focus on groove and melody, appealing to a broader audience. The change in musical direction also brought changes in their amplifier setup.
Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier
For “The Black Album,” Hetfield and Hammett began using the Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier. The Dual Rectifier, introduced in 1989, quickly became a favorite among metal guitarists for its high gain, aggressive distortion, and versatile sound shaping capabilities. It provided the tight, heavy tones needed for tracks like “Enter Sandman,” “Sad But True,” and “The Unforgiven.”
The Dual Rectifier’s influence can be heard throughout the album, offering a fuller, more modern metal sound compared to their earlier work. This amp continued to be a mainstay in Metallica’s rig throughout the 1990s, particularly during the recording of albums like “Load” (1996) and “ReLoad” (1997).
4. The 2000s: Experimentation and Evolution
In the 2000s, Metallica continued to evolve their sound, experimenting with different tones and production techniques. This era includes albums like “St. Anger” (2003) and “Death Magnetic” (2008).
Diezel VH4 and Roland JC-120
During the recording of “St. Anger,” Hetfield and Hammett used a combination of amps to achieve their desired sound. Notably, Hetfield employed the Diezel VH4 alongside his traditional Mesa/Boogie amplifiers. The Diezel VH4 is known for its tight, articulate distortion and was used to add a unique texture to the album’s raw, unpolished sound.
Additionally, the Roland JC-120, a solid-state amp known for its pristine clean tones, was also used in the studio for certain parts, providing a contrasting clarity to the heavily distorted rhythms.
5. Recent Years: Blending Vintage and Modern
In recent years, Metallica has continued to blend vintage gear with modern technology to achieve their signature sound. Their live performances and studio recordings often feature a combination of classic tube amps and cutting-edge digital modeling.
Fractal Audio Axe-Fx
One of the most notable additions to Metallica’s modern rig is the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx. The Axe-Fx is a digital effects processor and amp modeler that allows for an incredibly versatile range of tones. Hetfield and Hammett have used the Axe-Fx extensively for both live and studio work, combining its capabilities with their traditional tube amps to achieve a consistent and dynamic sound.
See Also: Who Was the First Band to Call Themselves Metal?
Conclusion
The amplifiers Metallica has used over the years have played a crucial role in shaping their iconic sound. From the raw power of the Marshall JCM800 to the versatile high-gain tones of the Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ and Dual Rectifier, each amp has contributed to the evolution of their music. As they continue to push the boundaries of metal, Metallica’s blend of vintage and modern gear ensures that their sound remains as powerful and influential as ever.
