Tone library / Metallica / Creeping death

Creeping death amp settings — Blackstar ID:30TVP

The Metallica guitar tone for “Creeping death”, dialed in for a Blackstar ID:30TVP with a Ibanez GIO GRG170DX. Studio version, Ride the Lightning (1984)

Original rig

Marshall JCM800 / Mesa Boogie Mark IIC+ heads into Marshall 4x12 cabs, Gibson Explorer (Hetfield), Gibson Flying V (Hammett), Boss distortion pedal (Hammett leads)

Tight, aggressive thrash rhythm with scooped mids, cutting high-end attack, and controlled low-end chunk

Amp settings — Blackstar ID:30TVP

CHANNELOD2 (high-gain channel)BOOSToff

Knob	Setting (0–10)
Gain	7
Bass	5
Mid	3
Treble	8
Reverb	0
Master	5

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Guitar

PICKUPbridge TONE10 VOLUME10

Why these settings

Set ISF fully clockwise (British/Marshall voicing) to match the JCM800's mid-forward bite. Your ID:30TVP's OD2 channel has enough gain on tap without pedals. Mid at 3 recreates the classic thrash scoop; treble at 8 gives the attack without the fizz that a digital amp can produce at 10. The GRG170DX's Infinity humbuckers are hotter than passive PAFs, so gain stays at 7 rather than the original's 8.

PRO TIPPalm mute directly over the bridge saddles with the heel of your picking hand angled slightly toward the neck—this gives the tight 'chunk' that defines Hetfield's rhythm attack on this track.

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These settings are for a Blackstar ID:30TVP. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.

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