Cyanide amp settings — Marshall MG30CFX
The Metallica guitar tone for “Cyanide”, dialed in for a Marshall MG30CFX with a Ibanez RG550. Studio version, Death Magnetic (2008)
Mesa Boogie Mark IV + Diezel VH4 blend, ESP Snakebyte/Eclipse with EMG 81/85, Mesa Graphic EQ (V-curve)
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 8 |
| Bass | 7 |
| Mid | 3 |
| Treble | 7 |
| Presence | 0 |
| Reverb | 0 |
| Master | 5 |
01Tube Screamer style (TS9 or clone)
RECOMMENDED — not currently owned. Used as a clean boost to tighten low-end and add pick definition. Run into amp input. Essential for Hetfield's attack.
The MG30CFX's OD2 channel is voiced tighter and less organic than a Mesa Mark IV—it lacks the tube sag and harmonic complexity. Mids are set low (3) to approximate Hetfield's signature scoop, but the MG naturally has less low-end authority than a Mesa, so bass is pushed to 7. Your Ibanez RG550 with stock pickups has lower output than EMG 81s, so gain stays at 8 to compensate. A TS-style pedal in front is critical to achieve the tight, percussive attack—without it, the tone will feel loose and fizzy.
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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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