Riff Tone

The End of Heartache

Killswitch Engage

Guitarmetal2000s

Original Gear

GuitarAlder-bodied guitar with EMG 81 bridge pickup (likely ESP/LTD or custom Framus, as per Adam Dutkiewicz's and Joel Stroetzel's rigs at the time)

AmpFramus Cobra head with Framus Cobra cab loaded with Celestion Greenbacks

PickupsEMG 81 (active humbucker, bridge position)

Amp Settings

gain9

bass6

mid5

treble7

reverb0

presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveMaxon Maxon OD-808 Overdrive

noise_gateBoss Boss Noise Gate (likely NS-2)

Notes

Studio recording for 'The End of Heartache' (2004). Sources confirm Framus Cobra head and cab with EMG 81-equipped alder guitar for the main rhythm/riff tone. Not live rig. No evidence of other amps used for the main riff section on the studio recording.

Tone Character(10)

tight and percussiveaggressive palm mutinghigh-gain saturationarticulate low endclear note separationmodern metalcore clarityminimal ambiencepunchy attackslightly scooped midsdry, focused rhythm sound

Difficulty

The riff requires tight, fast palm muting and precise alternate picking at a medium-fast tempo, with syncopated rhythms typical of metalcore. While not requiring advanced lead techniques, the precision and stamina needed for clean, aggressive chugging elevate the difficulty above intermediate.