Tone library / Metallica / Máster of puppets

Máster of puppets amp settings — Harley benton Dnafx amp20

The Metallica guitar tone for “Máster of puppets”, dialed in for a Harley benton Dnafx amp20 with a Harley Benton SC-Custom II. Studio version, Master of Puppets album (1986) — rhythm guitar track

Original rig

Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ head (Lead channel with graphic EQ 'V-curve'), 1984 Gibson Explorer with EMG 81 active humbucker (bridge), Marshall 4x12 cab with Celestion G12-65/V30s

Tight, aggressive, scooped-mid thrash tone with percussive palm-muted attack, high-gain saturation, and clear note separation

Amp settings — Harley benton Dnafx amp20

CHANNELUS Lead / Modern High-Gain Model (Mesa Mark voiced amp model) + 4x12 V30 Cab IRBRIGHToffBOOSToff

Knob	Setting (0–10)
Gain	7
Bass	7
Mid	2
Treble	7
Presence	6
Reverb	0
Master	7

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Guitar

PICKUPbridge TONE10 VOLUME10

Why these settings

The DNAfx AMP20 uses digital amp modeling, so select the US Lead/Modern high-gain model to capture the Mesa Mark IIC+ saturation without needing external pedals. The mid knob is pulled down to 2 to replicate the famous 750Hz V-curve graphic EQ scoop while keeping the preamp gain tight and punchy on the Harley Benton SC-Custom II's bridge humbucker. Reverb is set to 0 to keep the quad-tracked rhythm attack bone-dry and precise.

PRO TIPAnchor the heel of your picking hand firmly across the bridge saddles and execute strict downpicking with a heavy, sharp pick (1.0mm+) right against the bridge pickup for maximum percussive chunk.

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These settings are for a Harley benton Dnafx amp20. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.

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