Metropolis, Pt. 1: The Miracle and the Sleeper amp settings — Boss GX-100
The Dream Theater guitar tone for “Metropolis, Pt. 1: The Miracle and the Sleeper”, dialed in for a Boss GX-100 with a Kramer Striker. Studio version, Images and Words (1992) — Main heavy riff
Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+, Ibanez RG custom with DiMarzio pickups, 4x12 cab with Celestion V30s
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 7 |
| Bass | 4 |
| Mid | 6 |
| Treble | 6 |
| Presence | 6 |
| Reverb | 1 |
| Master | 6 |
01GX-100 OD/DS Block (T-SCREAM / Screamer)
Used strictly as a clean mid-boost to tighten the low-end before the amp block
02GX-100 Graphic EQ Block
Placed post-amp to recreate the iconic Mesa 5-band classic V-curve scoop
03GX-100 Noise Suppressor (NS)
Essential to clamp down between tight progressive staccato rhythms
The Mesa Mark IIC+ rhythm tone relies on keeping the pre-gain bass knob low (around 4) to avoid mud, while restoring lower frequencies via the post-amp Graphic EQ block. The Kramer Striker humbucker provides plenty of output, so setting the onboard TS-style boost with zero drive and high level provides the exact tightness and percussive attack heard on the track. Clean intro/verse: bypass the OD block, switch amp to CLEAN TWIN, and engage the Stereo Chorus block.
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These settings are for a Boss GX-100. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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