Master of puppets amp settings — Marshall 50DFX
The Metallica guitar tone for “Master of puppets”, dialed in for a Marshall 50DFX with a Ibanez GIO GRG170DX. Studio version, Master of Puppets (1986) - Main iconic rhythm track
Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ (V-curve graphic EQ) slaved into Marshall JCM800 2203 power amp, Jackson King V / Gibson Explorer with high-output humbuckers
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 8 |
| Bass | 8 |
| Mid | 2 |
| Treble | 7 |
| Reverb | 0 |
| Master | 5 |
01Tube Screamer (TS9 / clean boost)
RECOMMENDED — not currently owned; tightens low-end flub on the solid-state input
02Graphic EQ (Boss GE-7)
RECOMMENDED — not currently owned; place in FX loop for authentic Mesa V-curve scoop
The Marshall MG50DFX solid-state preamp needs gain at 8 on the Overdrive channel with the Contour control turned clockwise (around 7-8) to replicate the Mesa Mark IIC+ graphic EQ mid-scoop. We scoop the amp's Middle knob down to 2 and elevate Bass and Treble to match the punch and bite of the JCM800 power section. Adding an external graphic EQ pedal in the FX loop will bridge the final gap to Hetfield's extreme V-curve.
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These settings are for a Marshall 50DFX. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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