Tone library / Metallica / Enter Sandman

Enter Sandman amp settings — Harley benton HB-20MFX

The Metallica guitar tone for “Enter Sandman”, dialed in for a Harley benton HB-20MFX with a ESP LTD EC-256. Studio version, Black Album (1991)

Original rig

ESP MX-220 (EMG 81 bridge) → Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ / Mark IV → Marshall 4x12 cabinet

Tight, percussive modern thrash rhythm with scooped mids and controlled low-end thump

Amp settings — Harley benton HB-20MFX

CHANNELDistortion

Knob	Setting (0–10)
Gain	8
Bass	6
Mid	3
Treble	7
Reverb	0
Master	6

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Guitar

PICKUPbridge TONE10 VOLUME10

Why these settings

The HB-20MFX Distortion channel approximates Mesa Mark IIC++ saturation. Your ESP LTD EC-256's passive humbuckers have lower output than Hetfield's active EMG 81s, so gain stays at 8 to compensate. The MFX lacks presence control; mid at 3 mimics the original's aggressive scoop while treble at 7 preserves pick attack clarity. Bass at 6 prevents mud on the HB-20MFX's looser low-end response compared to a tightly-wound Mesa power section.

PRO TIPPalm-mute with your picking hand directly over the bridge pickup for maximum string damping and percussive thud — Hetfield's signature tight gallop rhythm comes from aggressive muting technique, not just amp settings.

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These settings are for a Harley benton HB-20MFX. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.

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Song, artist and gear names are used to identify the tone being matched; ToneAdapt is not affiliated with or endorsed by the artists or manufacturers mentioned. Settings are AI-generated starting points — trust your ears.