Riff Tone

Be One

Killswitch Engage

Guitarmetal2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarCaparison Dellinger (Joel Stroetzel signature) or EVH Wolfgang (Adam Dutkiewicz, heavily modded)

AmpLaney Ironheart 120-watt head into 4x12 cab with Celestion Vintage 30s (primary for distortion); also possible use of Peavey 5150, Soldano, or Fortin for layering

PickupsSeymour Duncan JB (bridge, Caparison) or EVH Wolfgang humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain8

bass6

mid5

treble7

reverb0

presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveMaxon Maxon OD808 Overdrive

noise_gateBoss Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor

Notes

Studio recording, 2019 (Atonement album). Both Adam and Joel tracked their own parts. Main rhythm tone is Laney Ironheart with Maxon OD808 in front. No evidence of modulation or time-based effects on the heavy riff sections. Maxon 808 always on for rhythm. Noise gate (Boss NS-2) used for tightness. Pickup choice is bridge humbucker for main riff. No evidence of delay, chorus, or reverb on riff section.

Tone Character(10)

tight and percussivearticulate pick attackhigh-gain saturationcompressed and focused lowsscooped but present midsaggressive bridge pickupmodern metalcore clarityno audible reverb or delayvery little noise or hisspunchy, palm-muted chugs

Difficulty

The riff requires fast, aggressive down-picking and tight palm muting at a high tempo, demanding stamina and rhythmic precision typical of modern metalcore.

Sources

Killswitch Engage's 8 tips on mastering metalcore | MusicRadar Killswitch Engage: Ironhearts & Redemption Review - Premier Guitar “I pushed myself to down-pick faster and make the riffs more aggressive.” | Guitar World

Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear

Create Free Account