Mick Thomson’s signature amp features a boost on two of its four channels1. This gives metal guitarists an edge. He’s the fierce guitarist of Slipknot, a band that’s topped heavy metal since 1999. His gear is key to their unforgettable guitar sound. For musicians and fans alike, knowing his gear can deepen your love and mimicry of his powerful sound.
Explore the details of Mick Thomson’s setup. From switching to ESP guitars to his amps and pedalboards. This guide will highlight how his gear is not just high-end stuff but vital for Slipknot’s unique and heavy sound.
Key Takeaways
- Mick Thomson’s signature amplifier has a built-in boost on two of its four channels1.
- Slipknot’s heavy metal sound has been synonymous with Mick Thomson’s precise and aggressive guitar playing since 1999.
- Thomson has transitioned from Jackson guitars to ESP, enhancing his iconic guitar setup.
- Understanding Mick Thomson equipment is crucial for replicating his unique sonic footprint.
- Fans and musicians alike seek to emulate his heavy metal sound through detailed insights into his gear.
Join us on a journey into Mick Thomson’s world. Discover the secrets of his intense tones and how to add similar vibes to your gear.
Introduction to Mick Thomson and His Role in Slipknot
Mick Thomson was born on November 3, 1973. He became the lead and rhythm guitarist for Slipknot in 1997, taking over from Craig Jones2. As #7, he’s known for his unique tattoos and guitar designs featuring his number2. His skills, like alternate picking and sweep picking, play a big part in Slipknot’s unique sound2.
Mick Thomson has a wide range of guitar gear that defines his sound. He first played B.C. Rich guitars before moving to Ibanez in 2004. There, he created the MTM1 and MTM2 models2. In 2018, he started using Jackson guitars, which helped evolve his music3. His collection also has special guitars like the Fender Custom Shop Yngwie Malmsteen “Play Loud” Stratocaster3.
Besides guitars, Mick uses powerful amps and effects pedals to shape his sound. On stage, he uses pedals like the Pigtronix Mothership3. He carefully picks his gear, like the Maxon OD-820 Overdrive Pro, to ensure top performance32.
Mick Thomson’s gear has played a big role in Slipknot’s aggressive sound. He uses advanced amps and a detailed pedalboard to deepen their music3. Mick’s choices in gear help Slipknot stay on top in the heavy metal world.
Mick Thomson Signature Guitars
Mick Thomson, the rhythm guitarist of Slipknot, teamed up with ESP to create his own guitar line. Announced in March 2023, his deal with ESP Guitars and Fishman pickups shows his dedication to quality4. These guitars showcase his powerful sound, both on stage and in the studio.
ESP Mick Thomson Signature Models
The ESP Mick Thomson guitars are perfect for metal music. Models like the ESP M-II Custom, ESP E-II Arrow, and Custom Shop Eclipse stand out4. Each one is made to enhance Mick’s heavy music style. Thanks to his special Fishman pickups, these guitars bring clear, powerful sounds.
Affordable Alternatives
For fans wanting a Mick Thomson guitar without spending a lot, the ESP LTD M-201HT in Black Satin is ideal. It captures Mick’s style at a better price. This guitar is comfortable and great for all levels of players looking to play heavy metal4.
Let’s look at how the different models compare:
| Model | Body Type | Pickups | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESP M-II Custom | S-style body guitar | Mick’s Signature Fishman | $2000 – $2500 |
| ESP E-II Arrow | Aggressive angular body | Mick’s Signature Fishman | $1800 – $2200 |
| Custom Shop Eclipse | Single cutaway | Mick’s Signature Fishman | $2500 – $3000 |
| ESP LTD M-201HT | S-style body guitar | Standard ESP pickups | $500 – $600 |
The Transition from Jackson to ESP
Mick Thomson, a well-known member of Slipknot, has switched his guitar brand from Jackson to ESP. This switch is not just about changing guitars. It shows Mick Thomson’s search for new sounds and custom features offered by ESP. He is often seen using ESP guitars like the Horizon, Eclipse, and Arrow during shows and recordings5.
Mick Thomson’s choice to work with ESP was backed by important people in his life. His guitar tech, Mike Smith, and his wife, Stacy Thomson, posted on social media about it. Mike Smith’s posts revealed five ESP models, confirming Mick’s change from Jackson5. This switch fits the pattern of Mick updating his equipment, like moving from Seymour Duncan to Fishman pickups5.
About 18% of Mick Thomson’s gear is now solid-body electric guitars from the ESP Custom Shop, E-II Arrow, Eclipse, and Horizon Custom6. His shift to ESP highlights his quest for the ideal sound. Mick endorses brands like Seymour Duncan, ESP, Fishman, and D’Addario, showing his taste for top-notch gear6. These changes keep Mick leading in metal music’s innovative and performing edge.
Mick Thomson’s gear updates reflect his aim to boost his musical sound and stage presence. He has included various equipment in his setup. This includes electric guitars, effects pedals, and more6. Mick’s dedication ensures his performances are lively. It also offers fans new sounds and exciting experiences at every concert.
Mick Thomson’s Amplifiers
Mick Thomson is known for his loud and powerful sound, thanks to his amps. He loves the Rivera KR7 amplifier for its loudness and versatility. It’s a top pick among heavy metal players. Let’s look at what makes this amp stand out.
Rivera KR7
The KR7 captures Mick Thomson’s style perfectly. It has a sharp lead channel and built-in boosts. The wide EQ range is great for the stage or practicing at home. It’s key to his unique sound.
Features and Specifications
The Rivera KR7 shines with unique features. Among them are:
- Bright and aggressive lead channel
- Integrated boosts for more power
- Wide EQ range for perfect sound
The KR7 also boasts high volume and clear sound, crucial for metal guitarists. Designed with Mick Thomson’s input, it ensures excellent performance every time.
AMP Comparisons: KR7 vs. Other Models
Compared to others, the KR7 has a unique sound thanks to Mick Thomson’s influence. It shares traits with Knucklehead models but stands out with special features. Its robust design and lead channel make it a standout metal amp.
The Rivera KR7 is unmatched if you want Mick Thomson’s sound or a top metal amp. It offers the power, clarity, and flexibility leading in his tone. With the KR7, you get an exceptional sound for playing and listening78. Slipknot’s diverse gear needs highlight the KR7’s value7.
The Secrets of Mick Thomson’s Pedalboard
Explore the Mick Thomson pedalboard to find carefully chosen pedals that make his sound unique. Mick blends old and new effects for the sharp and flexible tone his guitar is known for.
Common Pedals Used by Mick Thomson
The Mick Thomson pedalboard includes several key pedals:
- Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor: It keeps the sound clean by blocking out unwanted noise9.
- MXR Auto Q Wah: This pedal shapes the sound, which is vital for Mick’s lively tone10.
- Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb: It adds a rich, atmospheric layer to the guitar, perfect for deep soundscapes9.
Effect Chain and Setup Tips
To get Mick Thomson’s strong guitar sound, understanding his effect chain is essential. The order he connects his pedals ensures each one works at its best:
- Distortion first: Distortion and overdrive pedals are placed first to set the base tone.
- Noise suppression: The Boss NS-2 is used next for a crisp sound and to manage feedback9.
- Modulation effects: Pedals like the MXR Auto Q Wah come in the middle to improve sound texture without overpowering10.
- Reverb and delay: Finishing with the Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb brings in a sense of space and depth.
Learning to arrange your pedals like Mick can help you achieve a similar aggressive guitar sound.
What Made Mick Thomson’s Gear Unique?
Mick Thomson’s gear is tailor-made to create a sound that’s all Slipknot. He uses special D’Addario Strings to hit the right notes in every tune11. These custom string sets show Mick’s serious commitment to nailing the perfect sound at every show11.
Mick’s Jackson guitars stand out because they’re made just for him. The sleek ebony fretboards are Mick’s idea for both looks and performance12. They also have a unique bridge design for stable tuning and long-lasting notes, crucial for Mick’s signature sound12.
Amps are key to Slipknot’s signature sound. Mick swears by the Rivera KR7 for its sharp clarity and heavy distortion. When playing live or in the studio, it helps him keep his sound unmistakable. He also loves the Mesa/Boogie JP-2C, calling it one of his top picks for its rich tone11.
Mick adds special pedals to fine-tune his sound. The Death By Audio Fuzz War pedal gives him a bold fuzz effect. The EarthQuaker Devices Plumes pedal offers flexible overdrive sounds11. Together with his Boss GT-Pro, these pedals are vital for Slipknot’s complex sound11.
“The unique finish on Mick Thomson’s guitar reacts differently to light and has a wine red type finish, adding not just to its functionality but also to its visual appeal,” mentioned by Mick at the 2017 NAMM12.
Mick also tailors his guitars for specific events, like a special carbon fiber finish for Rock Am Ring11. His first custom, the Jackson King V, kicked off Slipknot’s distinct style early on11. This helped forge his legendary status in metal.
Maintaining Mick Thomson Guitar Gear
To keep your guitar gear in top shape, especially Mick Thomson’s, regular care is key. It’s vital to maintain a high-quality tone. Good gear upkeep practices can make your equipment last much longer.
Clean your instruments right after you use them. Dirt and dust can hurt the tone preservation and how well they work. Use a gentle cloth and specific guitar cleaners to clean the body, neck, and parts.
Storing your gear correctly is also very important. Keep your guitars in areas with stable temperature and humidity. This stops them from getting damaged and keeps them in great shape for more time.
Checking the hardware often is a must. Look at the string tension, neck condition, and pickup alignment. Guitars like Mick Thomson’s, especially his ESP models, need regular tuning. Watch parts like the Seymour Duncan Mick Thomson Signature Blackouts pickups and Celestion speakers13.
High-end gear like Mick’s needs careful, sometimes professional, attention13. Getting a skilled technician to check your gear can prevent expensive fixes later on.
Don’t forget about the effects pedals. Thomson uses various ones, like the MXR Fuzz Unit and Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler13. Keeping these pedals clean and in working order greatly affects your sound. Use good cables and check their power sources often.
Following these tips can keep Mick Thomson’s unique sounds alive in your music.
Signature Pickups: Sound Shaping with Fishman
Mick Thomson’s unique sound comes from his Fishman Fluence pickups. His signature Modern Humbuckers show how pickups can change a guitar’s sound.
Overview of Fishman Fluence Modern Humbuckers
Fishman Fluence pickups changed the game in 2014. They have coils that reduce noise and unwanted sounds14. Guitarists like Matt Heafy and Devin Townsend15 love them for their clear tone and low noise. The Mick Thomson set costs $289.95 and comes in matte black nickel14. It includes different sounds: a tight active humbucker, a punchy passive one, and a clear single coil tone14.
Installing and Adjusting Pickups
To make Fishman pickups work best, install and adjust them correctly. Mick’s pickups use a special magnet for his sound14. When changing your guitar, be careful with the setup. Last year, Thomson became a Fishman endorser, hinting at his own pickup design14. These pickups keep your sound consistent, whether recording or playing live.
Create Your Own Mick Thomson-Inspired Rig
To build a Mick Thomson guitar rig, start with the right guitar. Mick prefers ESP models such as the ESP M-II Custom and ESP Custom Shop Eclipse. These are top picks7. If you’re on a budget, the ESP LTD M-201HT Electric Guitar is a solid, less expensive choice. It lets you get close to his sound without spending too much7.
Then, pick the right amps. Thomson has used various amps, including the Rivera KR7 and VHT PitBull Ultra Lead11. The Rivera KR7, known for its high-gain, fits heavy metal perfectly. For variety, try the Omega Ampworks Obsidian and Iridium models11.
Pedals are key for the right tone. Mick likes the Death By Audio Fuzz War and EarthQuaker Devices Plumes Overdrive11. Adding flexible EQ pedals can also match Thomson’s unique sound.
Strings and picks matter too. Mick uses Carbon Fiber Max Grip Jazz III 471R3 Picks and D’Addario XT Electric Guitar Strings11. These help him perform in drop B and A tunings, essential for his style.
Finally, accessories like picks and strings are important for your Mick Thomson rig. High-quality picks and strings improve your playing and help nail Mick’s heavy metal tone11.
Mick Thomson Guitar Gear: Essential Accessories
Mick Thomson’s guitar setup includes vital essential gear components. He uses tailored D’Addario EXL117 and XT strings for Slipknot’s deep tunes. These strings are key for the band’s unique heavy sound16.
He prefers the Dunlop Carbon Fiber Max Grip Jazz III pick for its control and precision. This pick plays a big part in achieving Slipknot’s intense sound. Mick’s special techniques also help create their signature heavy riffs16.
High-quality cables, tough cases, and dependable straps are crucial for his performance. Brands like Ibanez and B.C. Rich support Mick’s unique playing style. These accessories ensure his guitar stays safe and sounds great on tour16.
Check out Mick Thomson’s complete gear list to see what makes his sound stand out16.
Mick Thomson’s Gear Evolution Over the Years
Mick Thomson has seen a lot change in his gear over the years. His guitar choices shifted from Jackson to ESP, showing growth in design and function. With Slipknot, formed 19 years ago in Des Moines, Iowa, he faced fame and tough times, like losing bassist Paul Gray and drummer Joey Jordison17.
At first, Mick loved Jackson Soloist guitars. By 2015, the Jackson Pro Series Signature Soloist was his top pick. He even switched to a carbon fiber model in 20168. Before that, he used the Ibanez MTM Stormtrooper from 2005 to 2015. He preferred it for live shows and albums like “All Hope Is Gone” and “The Gray Chapter”8.
From 1996 to 2003, Mick played the B.C. Rich Mick Thomson Signature M7 Warlock. Its all-black look and ‘HATE’ inlays made it stand out on stage8. Between 2005 and 2016, his work with Ibanez led to the MTM20 Mick Thomson Signature Series. It helped record hits like “All Hope Is Gone” and “The Gray Chapter”8.
Mick also worked closely with Fishman on pickups. After moving from Seymour Duncan and Jackson, he started using Fishman Fluence technology18. Fishman’s tech allows for unique sounds, hinting at a future signature set for Mick18. Since 2014, Fluence pickups have become popular in heavy music, shaping Mick’s sound18.
Mick’s gear has evolved from the Jackson King V Custom (1992-1999) to today’s advanced setups. This change has shaped his sound, reflecting his quest for musical greatness.
Interviews and Insights from Mick Thomson Himself
In interviews, Mick Thomson shared key tips on gear that shapes Slipknot’s sound. He once avoided seven-string guitars, favoring the tone of six-string models19. Also, he’s managed back-to-back shows, up to 18 nights straight, proving his gear must be tough19.
Mick shed light on tour life through the Voliminal DVD, which follows the band for two years post-“Vol. 3” release20. The DVD, filled with 90 minutes of performances and a close-up on tour life, reveals the hard work behind their shows20.
Insights on Gear Selection
Mick’s gear choices reflect his aggressive, precise style. He picks tools that amplify Slipknot’s sound. While working on “Iowa,” he chose equipment to meet recording challenges19. Mick swears by amps like the Rivera KR7 to get his distinct tone.
Effect of Gear on Mick’s Playing Style
Gear is key to Mick Thomson’s style, impacting Slipknot’s live energy. He ensures his equipment can survive their intense shows. Inspired by metal giants, the band’s shows are famously energetic19. Regular breaks are essential to keep up this intensity20.
Mick values the emotional push from his bandmates, enhancing on-stage performance20. This teamwork defines their style and show strength.
Conclusion
Mick Thomson’s guitar work has deeply influenced heavy metal music. His choice of ESP guitars and Fishman pickups help define Slipknot’s sound. We’ve carefully looked into his equipment, offering insights to get his iconic sound.
It’s key to experiment with your gear to find your best sound. Slipknot found their unique sound while recording “All Hope Is Gone” in a unique setting. You’re encouraged to explore different setups, just like Mick Thomson does21.
Looking into Mick Thomson’s gear, especially his pickups, can shape your sound distinctly. Our detailed guide and resources like this one expand your choices21. His legacy inspires metal fans to combine skill, equipment, and preference into a unique sound.
