Riff Tone

Geometric Headdress

Deftones

Guitarmetal2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarESP Stef B-8 (8-string, Stephen Carpenter signature)

AmpMesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier

PickupsEMG 808 active humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain8.5

bass6

mid5

treble6

reverb1

presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveMaxon Maxon OD808

Notes

Studio recording, 2016 (Gore album). Guitar and amp confirmed for Gore-era Deftones riff sections. Settings based on multiple Deftones-specific amp setting guides for heavy riff tones. No direct studio photo evidence for pedals on this track; pedal info inferred from genre, era, and typical Carpenter setup.

Tone Character(10)

tight and percussivearticulate note separationcrushing low-endaggressive palm mutingclear, defined attackmodern metal saturationminimal muddinessambient overtones (from arrangement, not effects)extended-range claritythick, saturated rhythm

Difficulty

The riff requires advanced rhythmic precision, tight palm muting, and control of an 8-string guitar in a low tuning, making it challenging for most players.

Sources

Deftones Amp Settings (gear and tone tips) - Guitar Chalk Deftones Amp Settings Guide – Stephen Carpenter's Tone Secrets Deftones Amp Settings & Gear for the Stephen Carpenter Tone!

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