Master of papets amp settings — Marshall MG30CFX
The Metalica guitar tone for “Master of papets”, dialed in for a Marshall MG30CFX with a Luxaras S-G37-Max-M. Studio version, Master of Puppets album (1986)
Mesa Boogie Mark IIC+ head, Marshall 4x12 cabinets, Gibson Flying V / ESP Explorer with EMG pickups, Ibanez Tube Screamer for mid boost
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 8 |
| Bass | 7 |
| Mid | 3 |
| Treble | 7 |
| Reverb | 0 |
| Master | 5 |
01Tube Screamer style overdrive (TS9 / TS808 clone)
RECOMMENDED — not currently owned. Used as a clean boost to tighten low-end and push mids. Essential for authentic Hetfield tone. Budget options: Boss SD-1, Behringer TO800, Joyo Vintage Overdrive.
The Marshall MG30CFX is a solid-state amp with a mid-forward British voicing, unlike the Mesa Mark IIC+ which has tighter lows and more gain headroom. I've scooped mids to 3 (vs Mesa's notoriously scooped 'V' EQ) and pushed the Contour knob to 7 to approximate the Mesa's aggressive scoop. Gain at 8 compensates for the MG's softer clipping compared to tube saturation. Without a Tube Screamer to tighten the low-end, palm mutes will be slightly looser than the original.
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These settings are for a Marshall MG30CFX. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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