Solo Tone

Sad But True (From James' Riff Tapes)

Metallica

Guitarmetal1990s

Original Gear

GuitarESP LTD EX-401 (likely ESP MX220 or ESP Explorer custom for studio recording)

AmpMesa/Boogie Mark IIC++

PickupsEMG 81 (bridge, active humbucker)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass4

mid1.5

treble6

reverb0

presence4.5

Effects & Signal Chain

eqAphex Aphex EQF-2 Parametric EQ

compressionAphex Aphex CX-1 Compressor/Expander

eqMesa/Boogie Mesa/Boogie Five-Band Graphic EQ (in amp or pedal form)

Notes

Studio recording, 1990-1991 Black Album sessions. Multiple amp layers, but core solo sound is Mark IIC++ with heavy EQ and outboard Aphex EQ/compression. Cabinet: Marshall 1960B 4x12 with Celestion Vintage 30s. D standard tuning. Settings from Guitar World are for studio, not live.

Tone Character(10)

tight and percussivescooped midsaggressive palm mutinghigh-gain saturationchunky, heavy attacksinging sustainarticulate pick attackcompressed and punchydry, in-your-face lead toneclear low end

Difficulty

The solo is not technically fast but demands tight rhythm, precise palm muting, and control of sustain and bends for the signature Metallica lead sound.

Sources

James Hetfield's guitar tone on Metallica's Sad But True: secrets behind the sound | Guitar World Metallica: 'Sad But True' Guitar Solo Lesson with Chris Zoupa

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