Distorted Tone
Symphony of Destruction
Megadeth
Bassmetal1990s
Original Gear
BassJackson Concert Bass (David Ellefson signature or similar, early 90s model, likely passive PJ configuration)
AmpAmpeg SVT (classic tube head, likely SVT-II or SVT-CL) with 8x10 cab
PickupsPJ (Precision split-coil + Jazz single-coil, passive)
Amp Settings
gain6
bass4.5
mid7.5
treble6.5
presence6.5
compression4.5
Effects & Signal Chain
compressionDBX DBX 160A Compressor (rackmount, studio)
Notes
Studio recording, 1992, Countdown to Extinction sessions. David Ellefson on bass. Likely blend of amp-mic and DI, as was standard for major metal productions of the era.
Tone Character(10)
mid-forward grindtight low endaggressive pick attackslightly gritty upper midscontrolled high endclear note definitionpunchy and focusedmetallic edgenot overly scoopedsits above guitars in mix
Difficulty
The bass line is rhythmically straightforward but requires precise, aggressive pick technique and tight timing to lock with the drums and maintain the song's drive.
Sources
This tone has been researched 2 times by the community
Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear
Create Free AccountBassmetal1990s
Original Gear
BassJackson Concert Bass (David Ellefson signature or similar, early 90s model, likely passive PJ configuration)
AmpAmpeg SVT (classic tube head, likely SVT-II or SVT-CL) with 8x10 cab
PickupsPJ (Precision split-coil + Jazz single-coil, passive)
Amp Settings
gain6
bass4.5
mid7.5
treble6.5
presence6.5
compression4.5
Effects & Signal Chain
compressionDBX DBX 160A Compressor (rackmount, studio)
This tone has been researched 2 times by the community
Notes
Studio recording, 1992, Countdown to Extinction sessions. David Ellefson on bass. Likely blend of amp-mic and DI, as was standard for major metal productions of the era.
Tone Character(10)
mid-forward grindtight low endaggressive pick attackslightly gritty upper midscontrolled high endclear note definitionpunchy and focusedmetallic edgenot overly scoopedsits above guitars in mix
Difficulty
The bass line is rhythmically straightforward but requires precise, aggressive pick technique and tight timing to lock with the drums and maintain the song's drive.
Symphony of Destruction settings for your amp
Exact settings ToneAdapt players use on these amps.
- Symphony of Destruction on Fender Mustang LT25
- Symphony of Destruction on Fender Rumble 100
- Symphony of Destruction on Amp
- Symphony of Destruction on Fender Rumble 25
- Symphony of Destruction on Fender Rumble 40
- Symphony of Destruction on Ampeg SVT
- Symphony of Destruction on Boss Katana 50 Gen 3
- Symphony of Destruction on Boss Katana
More Megadeth tones
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- Tornado of Souls · solo
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- Tornado Of Souls (2004 Remix) · riff
- Trust · riff
- Tornado Of Souls (2004 Remix) · solo
- Angry Again · riff
- Peace Sells · riff