Tone library / Metallica / Enter Sandman

Enter Sandman amp settings — Blackstar ID:Core 10 V4

The Metallica guitar tone for “Enter Sandman”, dialed in for a Blackstar ID:Core 10 V4 with a Spira S-450 TRD. Studio version, Metallica (The Black Album, 1991) — Main rhythm riff

Original rig

ESP MX-250 (EMG 81 bridge) into Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ blended with Jose-modded Marshall JCM800, ADA MP-1, outboard API 550A/Aphex EQs (1.2kHz mid-scoop), 4x12 cabs

Thick, punchy high-gain metal rhythm with aggressively scooped mids, tight low-end chug, and crisp top-end bite

Amp settings — Blackstar ID:Core 10 V4

CHANNELOD2 voice, ISF set to 2 (American/Mesa side)BOOSToff

Knob	Setting (0–10)
Gain	8
Reverb	1
Master	6

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Guitar

PICKUPbridge TONE10 VOLUME10

Why these settings

The Blackstar ID:Core 10 V4 uses a single ISF EQ knob rather than individual Bass, Middle, and Treble controls, so all three are set to null. Setting the Voice to OD2 gives the thick saturation of the Mark IIC++/Marshall blend, while dialing ISF counter-clockwise to 2 shifts the response to an American Mesa-style mid scoop with tight low-end punch. The Spira humbuckers provide strong output to drive the preamp without external dirt pedals.

PRO TIPUse heavy, aggressive all-downstroke palm muting right on the bridge saddles to keep the chugs razor-sharp and percussive like Hetfield's original tracking.

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These settings are for a Blackstar ID:Core 10 V4. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.

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