Jim Root, the famous guitarist from Slipknot, plays several guitars like the Fender Jim Root Signature Telecaster. He also uses the Stratocaster and Jazzmaster models. Each comes with unique pickups and hardware for his heavy sound1. Root’s gear choice, including guitars, amps, and pedals, is key to the powerful music beloved by fans worldwide.
Root’s talent isn’t just seen in Slipknot. He’s also made big contributions to Stone Sour and his solo work. He’s a master at using down-tuned electrics and a range of custom equipment. His music journey started with a Charvel Model 1 at age 152. Today, his sophisticated setup shows how much he has grown as a metal guitarist.
Key Takeaways
- Jim Root utilizes an array of Fender Jim Root Signature Series guitars.
- Specialized down-tuned guitars are a significant aspect of Jim Root’s sound.
- Root’s music career includes his impactful work with Slipknot and Stone Sour.
- His gear ranges from custom guitars and iconic amps to unique effects pedals.
- Jim Root’s journey is marked by his evolution from a young guitarist to an iconic figure in the metal scene.
Introduction to Jim Root
Welcome to the journey of Jim Root, a groundbreaking guitarist. His work with Slipknot and Stone Sour has made a big impact in music. This exploration covers his early life, musical influences, and key career moments. You’ll see the art and effort that make up Jim Root’s legacy.
Early Life
Jim Root was born on October 2, 1971, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Music became his passion early on3. His experiences shaped him into a leading guitarist. He joined local bands as a teenager, setting the stage for later success3.
Musical Influences
Jim Root’s musical tastes are wide-ranging. He loves bands like Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and The Beatles. This mix of styles influenced his own unique sound. He combines metal power with melodic touches. His work with Slipknot and Stone Sour showcases this blend3.
Career Milestones
Key moments in Jim Root’s career highlight his musical contribution:
- His 1999 entry into Slipknot was pivotal, making major contributions to the band3.
- With Stone Sour, he showed his musical range on hits like “Through Glass”3.
- In July 2007, the Fender Jim Root Telecaster was released, a sign of his influence3.
- His work on “.5: The Gray Chapter” added depth to Slipknot’s music4.
Root’s work goes beyond these bands. He’s sung backup on “Get Inside” and joined in DJ Starscream’s album. Since 2004, his relationship with Cristina Scabbia has been a personal highlight amidst his career successes3.
Jim Root’s story is a mix of early life, musical influences, and major career highlights. His ongoing drive and talent continue to inspire fans everywhere.
Jim Root’s Signature Guitars
Jim Root has made a big impact on the metal guitar world. His work with Fender has created signature guitars that show off his unique sound and style. These guitars, including the Fender Jim Root Telecaster, Jim Root Stratocaster, and Jim Root Jazzmaster, are made to his exact needs. They let fans get close to his famous tone.
Fender Jim Root Telecaster
The Fender Jim Root Telecaster came out in January 2010, after Root teamed up with Fender in March 20095. It has a mahogany body and EMG 81/60 humbucker pickups for a heavy, aggressive sound5. The neck feels like a Jackson/Charvel, which is great for comfort during long gigs or studio times5. It comes in black with a maple fingerboard or white with an ebony fingerboard5.
Fender Jim Root Stratocaster
The Fender Jim Root Stratocaster updates the classic Strat design to fit Root’s needs. It has high-output pickups and a simple control setup. This setup is great for powerful rhythms and sharp solos that Root is known for. While keeping the classic Strat shape, it has a darker look and is well-made, which metal players will love.
Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster
The Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster is eye-catching and performs beautifully. It costs $2,099.99. It has 22 frets and two EMG pickups—an EMG 60 for the neck and an EMG 81 for the bridge6. There’s a single Master Volume control and a 3-Position Blade switch for easy sound changes6. It uses Fender USA 250R Nickel Plated Steel strings. Also, it comes with a strap, cloth, an Owner’s Manual, and a Fender 2-Year Limited Warranty6.
Root’s work with Fender offers unmatched choices for musicians wanting his signature sound. The Jim Root Telecaster, Stratocaster, and Jazzmaster are top-notch Fender guitars. They are made for high performance and durability. These are perfect for today’s metal guitarists.
The Iconic Slipknot Guitarist
Jim Root, the iconic Slipknot guitarist, has a big impact on the band’s sound. His playing style is unique. It’s known for its thick, raw tone. He puts his guitar parts on the left side of the mix. This creates a special sound space in Slipknot’s recordings7. He has a different approach than Mick Thomson. Thomson plays metal in a technical way with a sharp attack on the right side7.
Contribution to Slipknot’s Sound
Jim Root’s guitar work is huge for Slipknot’s sound. He mixes intense practice with creative writing. This has truly defined the band’s unique sound7. Root adds a rock flair that fits well with Thomson’s precision. This mix has kept Slipknot at the top of modern metal8.
Even with music’s changing scene, Root sticks to full albums. This shows his love for the traditional album format. It’s rare in today’s quick change in technology and production8.
Notable Performances and Tours
Jim Root’s shows with Slipknot have made him a key guitarist in metal. The band’s tours are full of energy. Root’s guitar brings a rich, raw sound. His improvisations make the shows exciting7. The Iowa album stands out in their history. Even years later, it’s still powerful and relevant8.
The band put together Iowa in just two months. They stayed away from seven-string guitars. The album draws from bands like Exodus and Metallica8.
The Gear That Defines Jim Root’s Tone
Jim Root has carefully picked his guitar gear. This includes amps, special effects pedals, and guitar strings. This selection is key to the powerful sound he creates in Slipknot and other projects.
Amps and Cabinets
His amps really stand out. He uses the Orange Rockerverb 100 MKIII and the Orange PPC412 Cabinet9. These give his music a clear, powerful sound, whether live or in the studio. For recording, he picks the Mesa/Boogie .50 Caliber and uses a Fender Tonemaster Pro at home10. Even though he tries out amp modellers, his love for tube amps sticks10.
Signature Effects Pedals
Root’s pedals add extra layers to his sound. He uses classics and modern effects to mix things up9. This includes the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor and the Electro-Harmonix Micro POG11. Also, he loves the Maxon FV10 Fuzz for that unique sound touch11.
Strings and Accessories
Guitar strings and picks shape Root’s music. He chooses Dunlop Nickel Wound strings for a great performance11. For picks, it’s Dunlop Tortex TIII 0.88mm for its precision11. Plus, he uses tools like the T-Rex FuelTank for easy gear management11.
Root combines all this gear cleverly. This helps him keep his unique tone while exploring new metal sounds.
Jim Root’s Influence on Modern Metal
Jim Root has deeply impacted modern metal, transforming its sound. His role in Slipknot has made a big difference, mixing heavy tunes with melody. Root’s work has made waves from early Slipknot days to their latest hit, ‘We Are Not Your Kind.’ It soared to the top of charts in the US and the UK1213.
Root has also teamed up with Charvel to create new guitar models. This shows ongoing progress in guitar gear12. His faith in brands like Fender and Charvel highlights the power of trust among guitarists. It gives new musicians access to expertly designed tools12.
Impact on Upcoming Guitarists
New guitarists find inspiration in Jim Root, drawn to his varied musical tastes. He mixes heavy chords with smoother tunes in Slipknot’s music14. Slipknot’s newest album, “The End, So Far,” shows their evolving sound. It continues to influence young musicians12.
Signature Techniques
Jim Root’s unique playing style is known for its aggressive riffs and detailed melodies. He works with Jim Dunlop to create special picks and strings. These help maintain his distinctive sound in tunings like Drop-B and Drop-A14. The Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 is his latest creation. It includes features like EMG pickups and a mahogany body, tailored to his sound14. Root also highlights the importance of a good setting for songwriting. It underlines how vital comfort and habit are for creativity12.
Jim Root’s techniques and vast influence have made him a pillar of modern metal. He continues to inspire future guitarists with his unique playing methods and forward-thinking gear.
Jim Root’s Work with Stone Sour
Jim Root’s unique style shines in Stone Sour just as in Slipknot. He’s known for his amazing skill and fresh approach. His work in Stone Sour has left a lasting legacy.
Signature Songs and Styles
Jim Root’s time in Stone Sour brought us hits like “Through Glass” and “30/30-150.” His guitar playing combines melody and power. Unlike Slipknot’s sound, these songs show a different side of music. Root values creative music more than hits, influencing the band’s distinct style.
Root first joined Stone Sour in 1995 and came back in 2002. He played a big role in the band’s direction. Though he left the band in May 2014, his impact lives on in their music15.
Gear Used in Studio and Live
Jim Root is picky about his gear in the studio and on stage. He loves his Fender guitars, like the Telecaster and Jazzmaster. These guitars help him get his unique sound. He pairs them with the best amps and pedals for full, rich tones in Stone Sour’s songs.
For live shows, Root uses his signature Fenders and powerful amps. He started using the Headfirst Alta 100 head in Australia in March 202315. In 2024, he added the Neural DSP Quad Cortex for small gigs as backup15. This setup ensures great performances in any venue.
Working in Stone Sour, Root had to juggle with Corey Taylor between bands. But, creative differences and busy schedules led him to leave. This move let him focus more on Slipknot’s success16.
The gear list below shows what Jim Root uses in the studio and on stage:
| Studio Gear | Live Gear |
|---|---|
| Fender Jim Root Telecaster | Fender Jim Root Stratocaster |
| Fender Jim Root Stratocaster | Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster |
| Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster | Headfirst Alta 100 head |
| High-quality amps and effects pedals | Neural DSP Quad Cortex |
Jim Root’s amazing work with Stone Sour has made a big difference. His skills, songs, and gear show his talent and influence. He has truly helped shape the band’s success.
Fender Jim Root Telecaster: An In-Depth Look
The Fender Jim Root Telecaster is crafted for those who crave heavy metal but love the classic Telecaster look. Made with Slipknot’s Jim Root, it combines his intense play needs with unique features. This guitar fits perfectly in the heavy music world.
Features and Specifications
This guitar is unique. It has a mahogany body, different from the usual, giving it a rich sound17. It features EMG 81 and 60 pickups for a powerful tone17. The maple neck boosts its ease of play.
It also has an ebony fingerboard for better playability18. The nut width and scale length make it comfortable for all play styles19. It includes a 3-position switch for pickup selection and medium jumbo frets for flexibility19. Though it lacks a tone control, it’s streamlined for heavy music.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Body Material | Mahogany19 |
| Neck Material | Maple19 |
| Fingerboard | Ebony18 |
| Pickups | EMG 81 (Bridge), EMG 60 (Neck)19 |
| Frets | 2219 |
| Nut Width | 1.650″ (42 mm)19 |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ (648 mm)19 |
| Fingerboard Radius | 12″ (305 mm)19 |
Sound and Playability
The Fender Jim Root Telecaster is known for its deep sound and ease of use. Its EMG pickups produce a full, loud tone suitable for heavy music17. The guitar’s weight, due to the mahogany, enhances its sustain17.
Its fixed bridge keeps tuning steady and improves string reaction, making it sound excellent and easy to play18. Even without the typical Tele twang, it delivers a strong performance in many styles17. The ebony fingerboard allows fast, easy playing, perfect for quick riffs18.
Favorite Amps of Jim Root
Jim Root gets his unique sound from his favorite amps, the Orange Rockerverb MKII and the Bogner Uberschall. These amps pack a powerful punch and flexibility. They fit his different needs and playing styles perfectly.
Orange Rockerverb MKII 100-Watt
The Orange Rockerverb MKII 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amp Head is a big deal in Jim Root’s setup. It’s famous for deep, clear tones. The Rockerverb MKII supports Root’s bold playing. It performs amazingly on stage and in the studio201.
This amp captures the energy and range of Root’s music. He chooses it over others for its sound quality and power. It also works well with other gear, like the Friedman Brown Eye Deluxe Tube Amp on tour21.
Bogner Uberschall 120-Watt
The Bogner Uberschall 120-Watt Tube Guitar Amp Head is another top choice for Jim Root. It suits his setup perfectly. Known for strong gain and power, the Uberschall adds depth to Root’s music. It’s ideal for his hard-hitting riffs and solos.
Root often mixes it with other equipment for a rich sound1. He combines Orange Rockerverb 100 and Diezel Herbert for extraordinary tone depth21.
Root’s amps, the Orange Rockerverb MKII and Bogner Uberschall, show his commitment to a unique, powerful sound. These amps boost his music and let him try different sounds. They help establish his mark in metal music.
Jim Root’s Signature Sound: Effects Pedals
Jim Root is known for his unique tone and use of effects pedals. His setup includes the Boss AC-3, MXR GT-OD, and Small Stone phaser. These pedals are key to his signature sound22.
Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator
The Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator allows Jim Root to switch between heavy and clean tones. It mimics the sound of an acoustic guitar. This pedal is crucial for different song dynamics22.
MXR M193 GT-OD
The MXR M193 GT-OD gives Jim Root a smooth overdrive sound. It’s great for both rhythm and lead guitar. This pedal adds texture to his music23.
Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone
The Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone adds depth to Jim’s music. It’s a powerful pedal for creating lush effects. Its compact design is perfect for complex sounds23.
| Effects Pedal | Main Feature | Contribution to Sound | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boss AC-3 | Acoustic Simulation | Simulates acoustic tones | Live and studio sessions |
| MXR M193 GT-OD | Overdrive | Warm, smooth overdrive | Rhythm and lead playing |
| Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone | Phaser | Lush, sweeping effects | Adding depth to soundscapes |
Jim Root’s sound is unique thanks to his pedals like the Boss AC-3, MXR GT-OD, and Small Stone phaser. These pedals are essential for his music in Slipknot and solo work. They help him explore various sounds23.
The Evolution of Jim Root’s Gear
Jim Root’s journey with gear has been amazing, showing his growth and influence on metal. His early setups with Slipknot shaped his style. Over time, his gear evolved into a mix of signature models and custom equipment.
Early Gear Setups
In Slipknot’s early days, Jim Root mixed standard guitars and amps to create the band’s sound. He favored Fender guitars, modifying them for his intense playing.
By their seventh album, The End, So Far, Slipknot’s sound had grown, thanks to Root. His gear included orchestration, melodic vocals, and layered music24.
Transition to Signature Models
Jim Root’s gear changed as he became a key member of Slipknot. He started using signature Fender and Charvel guitars made for his style.
The Fender Jim Root Telecaster, launched in 2008, became a core part of his setup for 15 years9. Root helped design the Jim Root Stratocaster and Jazzmaster. Both have unique humbuckers for his heavy tone25.
His Charvel signature guitars offer powerful sound and playability. Priced under $1,500, they suit many guitarists25.
Jim Root’s gear story shows his metal music impact. It influences guitarists everywhere. For more on his gear, check this detailed rig review24.
Behind Jim Root’s Signature Equipment
Jim Root has teamed up with Fender, creating an exciting range of signature equipment. This partnership lets him make guitars that match his needs perfectly. They stand out for their top-notch quality and sound.
Design Collaboration with Fender
Jim Root and Fender have worked closely to blend artistic vision with expert crafting. Their design collaboration brings us guitars that honor Root’s creative spirit and skill26. Thanks to this partnership, we get instruments that are eye-catching and produce amazing sounds27.
Unique Specifications and Features
Jim Root’s guitars are known for their custom pickups and careful construction. For example, they use Root’s preferred EMG pickups for a unique sound and flexibility26. The Jim Root Telecaster stands out with its simple design but powerful output, reflecting Root’s style27.
These guitars have features like a mahogany body and Floyd Rose tremolo, tailored to Root’s liking. They’re built to meet the demands of his energetic performances.
For an in-depth look at Root’s gear, including his Squier Telecaster and custom pedals, click here for more info26.
Root’s collaboration with Fender shows how artists and makers can create breathtaking gear. His focus on excellence and innovation is evident in each piece, making them a must-have for guitarists.
Jim Root’s Solo Projects and Gear Setup
Jim Root is known for his work with Slipknot and Stone Sour. But his solo projects are just as impressive. They show his unique sound and style. Root uses these projects to mix heavy riffs with new sounds. This lets his listeners enjoy a wide range of music. Root is always looking to try new things with his guitar.
Distinct Sounds and Styles
Jim Root’s solo efforts are unique and creative. He takes inspiration from bands like Anthrax, Megadeth, and Racer X. These influences help him create powerful and detailed musical pieces. He’s great at mixing tough riffs with softer parts. This shows off his amazing skill and love for music28.
Gear Used in Solo Work
Root’s equipment for solo work is quite special. It’s different from what he uses with Slipknot and Stone Sour. He chooses Fender Jazzmaster V4 guitars with EMG humbuckers for his solo sound. He also works with Dunlop for strings, picks, and MXR effects2820. Root loves Orange amps like the Dark Terror and Rockerverb 10020. This gear mix helps him create his powerful and distinct sound.
