Tone library / Metallica / Creeping death

Creeping death amp settings — Blackstar ID:Core 20 V3

The Metallica guitar tone for “Creeping death”, dialed in for a Blackstar ID:Core 20 V3 with a Cort R100. Studio version, Ride the Lightning (1984)

Original rig

Modified Marshall JCM800 2203 + Ibanez TS9 / ProCo Rat boost + Gibson Flying V (Duncan Invader) / Jackson RR Custom (EMG 81)

Aggressive, scooped, high-gain thrash rhythm with sharp top-end bite and tight palm-muted low end

Amp settings — Blackstar ID:Core 20 V3

CHANNELOD1 (Voice) — ISF at 7 (British bias)

Knob	Setting (0–10)
Gain	7
Reverb	0
Master	6

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Guitar

PICKUPbridge TONE10 VOLUME10

Why these settings

The Blackstar ID:Core 20 V3 uses a single ISF EQ knob rather than separate Bass/Mid/Treble controls, so those values are nulled. Setting the voice to OD1 provides the tight, saturated JCM800-style crunch, while turning the ISF clockwise to 7 dials in the aggressive British midrange bite characteristic of the Ride the Lightning rhythm tone without needing an external boost. Reverb is kept off to ensure fast palm-muted riffs remain articulate and punchy through the practice speakers.

PRO TIPAnchor your palm directly over the bridge saddles and execute strict downpicking with a heavy, stiff pick (1.0mm+) to nail the percussive, mechanical chug of the main riff.

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These settings are for a Blackstar ID:Core 20 V3. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.

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