Riff Tone

Spiders

System Of A Down

Guitarmetal1990s

Original Gear

GuitarGibson SG Standard (1962, stock, passive humbuckers)

AmpMesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier 2-channel 100W Solo Head

PickupsGibson stock humbuckers (passive, likely 490R/490T or PAF-style)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass5.5

mid6

treble6

reverb0.5

presence5

Effects & Signal Chain

distortionBoss Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal

eqMXR MXR 10-Band EQ

Notes

Studio recording, 1997-1998. Guitar and amp confirmed via Equipboard and Guitar Chalk for debut album. No evidence of alternate guitars or amps for 'Spiders' riff. No evidence of live rig differences for this era.

Tone Character(10)

tight and percussivemid-forward aggressionarticulate attackpunchy low endminimal ambiencehigh-gain saturationclear note definitionfocused distortioncrisp palm mutingslightly compressed

Difficulty

The riff requires tight, aggressive palm muting and precise alternate picking at a moderate tempo, but does not involve advanced techniques or extreme speed.

Sources

Amp Settings for Aerials by System of a Down (guitars and tone) - Guitar Chalk System of a Down – System Of A Down - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album System of a Down Amp Settings (gear and tone tips) - Guitar Chalk

Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear

Create Free Account