Guitarist Starter Pack pt. 1

Hey fellow riff-wielders! So you're looking to dive into the brutal world of deathcore guitar? It can feel overwhelming with all the gear out there, but trust me, setting up your dream rig is half the fun! I’ve put together my ultimate deathcore guitarist starter pack to help you get that crushing tone you crave, inspired by my own setup and what I’ve learned along the way. Forget the guesswork and let’s get you shredding! First up, the guitar itself. While my stage setup features a killer light blue Aristides 070 – a real premium machine that handles those low tunings flawlessly – you don't have to break the bank to start. Look for guitars with at least seven strings; eight strings are becoming increasingly common for that ultra-low end. Key features include a longer scale length (often 26.5 inches or more, sometimes called baritone scale) to maintain string tension and clarity in drop tunings like Drop G or F#. A fixed bridge is standard for stability, but an Evertune Bridge, like the one on my Aristides, is a game-changer for staying perfectly in tune no matter how hard you chug. Brands like Ibanez, Schecter, and ESP/LTD offer fantastic 7 and 8-string models that are perfect for getting started without compromising on quality or playability. Next, let's talk pickups. These are the heart of your tone! My Aristides is loaded with Bareknuckle Pickups, which are renowned for their clarity, high output, and articulation – perfect for deathcore's intricate, fast riffs and massive chugs. Generally, you'll want high-output humbuckers. The big debate is active versus passive. Active pickups (like EMG 81/85 or Fishman Fluence) give you a tight, compressed, and very articulate sound, which is fantastic for super-fast palm-muting and precise riffing. Passive pickups (like Seymour Duncan Nazgûl/Sentient, DiMarzio D Activator, or Bareknuckle) tend to be a bit more organic, dynamic, and can offer a wider range of tones, though they might require a bit more tweaking to get that tight deathcore sound. Experiment to see what feels right for your playing style! Now, for the amplification. You need something that can deliver massive gain and punch. While the iconic Orange Cab in my setup looks amazing and delivers a killer sound, the amp head is where the magic truly happens. High-gain tube amps are king here. Think Peavey 6505/5150 (a staple in metal!), Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier, or EVH 5150. These amps provide the headroom and saturation needed for those thick, heavy tones. If a full tube stack isn't in your budget or you need more versatility, modern digital modelers like Kemper, Axe-FX, or even plugins like Neural DSP offer incredible high-gain sounds and are fantastic for practice, recording, and even live use. Don't underestimate the importance of a good cabinet; pairing your amp with quality speakers makes a huge difference. Finally, a few essential pedals and accessories. A Tube Screamer-style overdrive (like an Ibanez TS9 or Maxon OD808) is almost mandatory. Placed in front of your high-gain amp, it tightens the low end and boosts the mids, making your riffs cut through the mix. A high-quality noise gate (like an ISP Decimator) is also absolutely crucial to kill unwanted feedback and hum, keeping your sound tight and professional. For strings, definitely go with heavier gauges, especially on your lower strings, to handle those extreme drop tunings. And don't forget some thick picks for aggressive attack and a reliable tuner – a pedal tuner like a TC Electronic Polytune is perfect for gigs. Building your deathcore rig is a journey, not a destination. This starter pack should give you a solid foundation, but always remember to experiment and find what truly inspires your sound. Happy shredding!