Solo Tone

Damage Control

John Petrucci

Guitarmetal2000s

Original Gear

GuitarErnie Ball Music Man JP6 (likely pre-JPXI, 2005 studio model)

AmpMesa/Boogie Mark IV (studio recording, 2005 era)

PickupsDiMarzio Crunch Lab (bridge), DiMarzio LiquiFire (neck) humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain7.5

bass6

mid6

treble7

reverb2

presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveAnalog Man Analog Man King of Tone Overdrive

overdriveIbanez Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer (Keeley modded)

phaserBoss Boss PH-3 Phase Shifter

flangerMXR MXR EVH Flanger

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown, likely rack or Axe-FX II)

compressionCarl Martin Compressor Limiter (Carl Martin Compressor Limiter)

Notes

Studio recording for 'Suspended Animation' (2005). JP6 with signature DiMarzio pickups, Mesa/Boogie Mark IV amp, effects via pedals and rack. Not live rig. Effects loop used for time-based effects. Sources confirm Mark IV as main studio amp for this era and album.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustainliquid and smooth lead voicetight and articulate attackhigh-gain saturationrich harmonic overtonesclear note separationcompressed and controlled dynamicscutting presence in the mixfast alternate picking claritysmooth legato phrasing

Difficulty

The solo features expert-level speed, intricate phrasing, and advanced technical demands including alternate picking, legato, and expressive use of effects, making it highly challenging for even advanced players.

Sources

Rig Rundown - Dream Theater's John Petrucci - Premier Guitar John Petrucci's Guitar Gear, Pedalboard & Amps Clean amp with pedals for heavy tones?

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