lead guitar from “it only smiles” by periphery | ToneDB
it only smiles
periphery
lead guitar
AI generatedv1.0
Tone Profile
This lead guitar tone is aggressive and articulate, perfect for djent and progressive metal. It features a tight low-end, focused mids, and crisp highs that cut through the mix.
Gear
- Ibanez guitarsinstrument
- ReverbSweetwater
- Fractal Audio Axe-Fx IIamp
- Reverb$800Sweetwater
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The Story
Periphery's lead guitar tone on "it only smiles" was created using Ibanez guitars run through a Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II digital amp modeler. Misha Mansoor, the band's lead guitarist, is well-documented as extensively using the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx for both live performances and studio recordings, representing the modern djent approach of using high-quality digital amp modeling rather than traditional tube amplifiers.
Signal Chain
Instrument: Ibanez guitars
Amp: Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II
Recreation Tips
- Start with a high-gain amp model in your preferred amp simulator (e.g., Fractal Audio Axe-Fx, Kemper Profiler, Line 6 Helix, or software plugins).
- Choose an amp model based on a modern, high-gain amplifier such as a Peavey 5150 or Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier.
- Use a tube screamer or similar overdrive pedal model to tighten the low end and boost the mids before the amp.
- EQ the amp model to remove excessive low-end rumble and focus on the 800Hz-2kHz range for clarity.
- Add a touch of reverb and delay to taste for added depth and sustain.
- Double-track the guitar part and pan the tracks slightly to create a wider stereo image.
Original Gear
- Ibanez guitars(guitar)
- Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II(amp)
Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II
Direct successor to Mansoor's original unit with improved modeling algorithms and the same high-gain amp models used for djent tones
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II
Developed with Periphery's bassist Nolly Getgood, specifically designed to capture modern progressive metal tones including Periphery's signature sound
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II
High-quality digital amp modeler with modern high-gain models suitable for djent, at a lower price point than Fractal units
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Ibanez guitars
Modern Ibanez guitars with extended range capabilities and high-output pickups suited for progressive metal like Periphery uses
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II
Digital amp profiler capable of capturing high-gain modern metal tones with the tight, articulate response needed for djent
ReverbSweetwaterFrequently Asked Questions
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