Tone library / Metallica / Seek & Destroy

Seek & Destroy amp settings — Ibanez MIMX30

The Metallica guitar tone for “Seek & Destroy”, dialed in for a Ibanez MIMX30 with a Ibanez GIO GRG170DX. Studio version, Kill 'Em All (1983)

Original rig

Modified/hot-rodded Marshall JMP 2203 100W head + 1981 Gibson Flying V with stock humbuckers

Aggressive, scooped early-thrash rhythm with razor-sharp pick attack and tight low end

Amp settings — Ibanez MIMX30

CHANNELLead/High Gain channel

Knob	Setting (0–10)
Gain	8
Bass	6
Mid	3
Treble	7
Presence	6
Reverb	0
Master	5

Don’t have a Ibanez MIMX30? See this song on other amps → Match your own rig →

Guitar

PICKUPbridge TONE10 VOLUME10

Why these settings

The MIMX30 is a solid-state modeling amp with a darker, more compressed voice than a cranked Marshall tube head. I pushed gain to 8 to compensate for lower harmonic saturation, dropped mid to 3 to achieve the signature thrash scoop, and set treble at 7 (not higher) because solid-state amps turn fizzy fast at extreme treble. Your GIO's INF pickups are hot ceramics — they'll push the front end hard, so this gain level will get you into thrash territory without mud.

PRO TIPHetfield's right-hand attack is the secret weapon — aggressive downpicking with the pick angled slightly and striking close to the bridge adds the percussive 'chunk' that EQ alone can't replicate. Practice palm-muting pressure: lighter mutes for sustain, heavier for staccato chug.

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These settings are for a Ibanez MIMX30. 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.