One amp settings — fender xx11
The Metallica guitar tone for “One”, dialed in for a fender xx11 with a ibanez grx22. Studio version, ...And Justice for All (1988)
Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ head, ESP MX-220/KH-2 with EMG 81/85 active pickups, no pedals for main distortion — amp gain only
| Knob | Setting (0–10) |
|---|---|
| Gain | 7 |
| Bass | 6 |
| Mid | 2 |
| Treble | 7 |
| Presence | 5 |
| Reverb | 0 |
| Master | 5 |
01Distortion Pedal (Boss DS-1 or similar)
RECOMMENDED — not currently owned. The Fender XX11 lacks the preamp gain saturation of a Mesa Mark IIC+. A distortion pedal is essential to reach this tone. Run amp clean (gain 2-3) when using this pedal.
The Fender XX11 is a clean-voiced solid-state practice amp that cannot produce Mesa-style high-gain saturation from its preamp alone. The original Mark IIC+ has a mid-forward voicing with tight bass; the Fender is naturally scooped and looser in the low end. I dropped mid to 2 (matching the Justice-era scoop), raised bass slightly to compensate for the thinner Fender response, and kept treble at 7 for cut. Without a distortion pedal, this tone is unobtainable on your rig — the pedal recommendation is critical.
Get this tone on your amp
These settings are for a fender xx11. ToneAdapt matches any song to whatever amp, guitar and pedals you own — first match is free.
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