Riff Tone

Hell On Earth

Iron Maiden

Guitarmetal2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarFender Stratocaster (Dave Murray/Adrian Smith signature or similar, as used on Senjutsu sessions)

AmpMarshall JMP 2203/2204 (Dave Murray), Marshall JVM (Adrian Smith), Marshall 100W prototype (Janick Gers) — all classic Marshall valve heads

PickupsSeymour Duncan Hot Rails (bridge, Dave Murray) / DiMarzio Super Distortion (Adrian Smith bridge) / Fender single coils (neck/middle, depending on guitarist)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass6

mid7

treble7

reverb1.5

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

No effects used for this tone

Notes

Studio recording, 2021 (Senjutsu album). All three guitarists tracked rhythm parts, typically using their signature Strats with humbucker bridge pickups for heavier riffing. Minimal effects used for rhythm; direct into Marshall heads. No evidence of pedal use for riff section. Effects like Uni-Vibe, phaser, flanger only used for solos per interview. Rhythm tones are dry and tight. Settings estimated based on typical Iron Maiden studio approach and amp models.

Tone Character(10)

tight and articulateaggressive midrange punchclear note separationcrunchy British valve saturationpercussive palm-muted attackminimal ambiencefocused and dry rhythm soundslight natural compressionharmonic richness in layered guitarsno audible modulation or delay

Difficulty

The main riff requires fast, tight alternate picking with palm muting and precise synchrony between guitarists for harmonized lines. The tempo and rhythmic complexity make it challenging for most players.

Sources

Iron Maiden Members, Gear & Sound - Equipboard Iron Maiden guitarists Dave Murray, Adrian Smith & Janick Gers on ...

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Guitarmetal2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarFender Stratocaster (Dave Murray/Adrian Smith signature or similar, as used on Senjutsu sessions)

AmpMarshall JMP 2203/2204 (Dave Murray), Marshall JVM (Adrian Smith), Marshall 100W prototype (Janick Gers) — all classic Marshall valve heads

PickupsSeymour Duncan Hot Rails (bridge, Dave Murray) / DiMarzio Super Distortion (Adrian Smith bridge) / Fender single coils (neck/middle, depending on guitarist)