Epiphone Les Paul, Tube Screamer, and 800

[rictus_grin]

So I just got into the Synergy world and I’m trying to get a nice chunky metal tone with a lot of percussive attack, but also some fatness. Think Scott Ian, Voivod, Metallica, Trouble, Celtic Frost, early Mastodon, etc. The last three especially have a nice full sound on low register single note riffs, but plenty of attack when they palm mute.

My signal chain is an Epiphone with a stock pickup into a TS mini into the 800, sometimes with an EQ in the loop, into a Two Notes Cab M. I’m like 90% of the way to the sound I want, but it seems like the attack/mute part is a little lacking unless my picking hand is positioned just in the right spot.

I can get the attack I’m looking for on other preamps using this chain. Not sure if I need to try adding a power amp, changing pickups, or just working on my technique more. Any tips?

Thanks

 

[alboz28]

It is the sum of the parts concept. You have a great signal chain, but I would look at changing from the stock Epiphone pickups. That is probably the weakest link keeping you from getting all the way there with better attack and clarity

 

[rictus_grin]

I’ve tried both a Dimarzio Super Distortion and 36th Anniversary PAF in the bridge, but neither gelled with my setup at the time. I still have them, maybe I’ll give them another shot.

 

[rictus_grin]

Update: got a Fryette Power Station. This was definitely the key piece to getting the sound I was looking for. I’m actually really liking the sound of my AMT SS-20 through the Syn-1’s loop. The sag control and extra tube really add something to the sound of that pedal.

 

[Module]

Personally I hate stock circuit TS pedals. Love my Origin Halcyon with the adapt and mod switch. Also huge fan of various quality clean boosts up front.