How to Get a Scooped Guitar Sound

There’s nothing quite like the roar of a scooped guitar sound. It’s that quintessential tone you hear in thrash metal and the heavier side of rock. Getting that powerful, cutting sound isn’t just about turning up the volume—it’s about crafting a specific EQ shape that lets your riffs slice through the mix. Let’s break it down and explore how to achieve that coveted scooped sound.

What Exactly is a Scooped Guitar Sound?

If you’re wondering what makes a scooped sound so distinctive, it all boils down to the equalizer settings on your amp or pedal. Picture your EQ as a mountain range. A scooped setting looks like a valley: the highs and lows are cranked up, while the mids are cut down. This creates a sound that’s big and bold, with a crisp top end and a thundering bottom.

Why do so many metal guitarists love this sound? It’s because a scooped tone can make power chords and palm-muted riffs sound enormous while still maintaining clarity. It’s the secret sauce behind many iconic metal records. Bands like Metallica and Pantera have used this EQ setting to devastating effect. The absence of mids gives your tone a cleaner, more defined edge when playing fast, intricate riffs.

However, it’s worth noting that the scooped sound isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on the rest of your band’s setup, scooping the mids could make you disappear in the mix, especially during solos. But we’ll get into that later.

Setting Up Your Amp for a Scooped Tone

First things first: your amp settings are crucial for dialing in a scooped tone. You don’t need a high-end amp to achieve this; even a basic model with a three-band EQ can do the trick. Here’s a general guide to get you started:

• Highs: Turn them up to around 7 or 8. This will give you that crisp, sharp edge.
• Mids: Dial these down to about 2 or 3. This is where the “scoop” happens, removing the midrange frequencies for a cleaner sound.
• Lows: Boost them to around 7 or 8. This adds that thunderous bottom end.

Remember, these are starting points. Your setup might require some tweaking based on your guitar, pickups, and even the room you’re playing in. Some amps come with additional EQ features, like presence or resonance. Feel free to experiment with these to further tailor your tone.

Interestingly enough, some amps have a built-in ‘scooped’ preset. If you own a modeling amp, check the presets—it might already have a setting designed for metal tones. That said, manual adjustments can often yield better results because you can fine-tune the sound to your specific needs.

Using a Graphic EQ Pedal

If your amp doesn’t quite cut it, or you’re just looking for more control, a graphic EQ pedal can be a game-changer. These pedals give you precise control over a range of frequencies. Here’s how to use one to perfect your scooped sound:

• Boost the Highs and Lows: Start by raising the sliders on the lower and higher frequencies, usually the first and last few sliders.
• Cut the Mids: Lower the sliders around the midrange, typically in the center of the pedal.
• Experiment: Move the sliders in small increments—just a notch can make a significant difference.

The beauty of a graphic EQ pedal is its flexibility. You can adjust your settings on the fly, whether you’re in a rehearsal or on stage. Plus, it’s easy to bypass if you need to switch between different tones quickly. And here’s a little secret: many iconic metal tones have been shaped using EQ pedals instead of relying solely on amp settings.

Choosing the Right Pickups

Your guitar’s pickups play a massive role in shaping your tone. For a scooped sound, many metal guitarists prefer high-output pickups. These pickups provide the extra push needed to drive your amp hard, perfect for heavy riffs and fast solos.

Active pickups, like the well-known EMG 81/85 set, are popular in the metal community. They deliver a tight, focused sound that’s ideal for cutting through the mix. Meanwhile, passive pickups can also do the trick, especially if you’re looking for a more organic tone.

When choosing pickups, consider the type of wood your guitar is made from. Different woods can emphasize different frequencies, affecting whether you naturally have more mids, highs, or lows. For instance, a guitar with a mahogany body might have more warmth and mids, so you might need to adjust your EQ settings accordingly.

If you’re unsure which pickups to choose, Riffhard offers lessons from guitarists who can provide insights into what works best for their tone. With expert guidance, you can find the right pickups to suit your sound.

Fine-Tuning with Guitar Pedals

While your amp and EQ are the cornerstones of your scooped sound, don’t underestimate the power of pedals. A distortion pedal, for instance, can add the grit and sustain you need, but it must be used judiciously. Here’s how to incorporate pedals into your setup:

• Distortion: Choose a pedal with a good amount of gain. Dial in just enough to add aggression without losing clarity. The Boss Metal Zone or the Ibanez Tube Screamer are classics for a reason.
• Compressor: This can help even out your dynamics, ensuring a consistent sound across all your strings. It’s especially helpful for tight rhythms.
• Noise Gate: Essential for high-gain setups, a noise gate will help eliminate unwanted hum and hiss, keeping your sound clean and focused.

Experimenting with different pedal combinations can lead to some exciting discoveries. Remember, your setup should complement your playing style. If you’re someone who loves intricate, fast-paced riffs, you’ll want to keep your sound punchy and articulate. On the other hand, for slower, heavier riffs, you might prefer a thicker, more saturated tone.

Adjusting Your Playing Technique

No matter how perfect your gear is, technique is king. The way you play can make or break your scooped tone. Here are some tips to maximize your sound:

• Palm Muting: This technique is essential for creating a tight, percussive sound. Experiment with the pressure and placement of your palm to find the sweet spot.
• Alternate Picking: For fast passages, alternate picking can help maintain clarity and precision.
• String Gauge: Thicker strings can add more body to your sound. Try using a heavier gauge for a fuller tone, especially if you’re tuning down.

Practicing consistently is crucial. If you’re looking to improve your technique, Riffhard features lessons from top guitarists who focus on rhythm and picking techniques, helping you refine your playing style.

Recording Tips for a Scooped Sound

Recording your scooped tone can be tricky. The sound that works live might not translate well to a recording. Here’s how to capture that scooped sound in the studio:

• Mic Placement: Experiment with different mic positions to capture the best sound. Try placing the mic closer to the speaker’s edge for a brighter tone.
• Double-Tracking: Record your parts twice and pan them left and right for a fuller sound.
• Post-Production: Use EQ to fine-tune your sound, but be cautious. Over-EQing can lead to an unnatural tone.

Recording is an art form in itself. It might take some time to get everything just right, but the results are worth it. A well-recorded scooped guitar tone can add immense power and clarity to your tracks.

Balancing Your Band’s Mix

While a scooped sound is great, it’s crucial to ensure it complements your band’s overall mix. Here’s how to make sure your guitar sits just right:

• Communicate: Discuss with your bandmates about everyone’s tone settings. This will help avoid frequency clashes.
• Adjust Live: In a live setting, adapt your settings based on the venue’s acoustics and the rest of the band’s sound.
• Find Your Space: Consider where your guitar should sit in the mix. Sometimes, adding a bit of mids back in can help you stand out without losing that scooped character.

Playing in a band is all about balance. The goal is to enhance the music, not overpower it. With some experimentation, you’ll find the sweet spot where your scooped sound shines.

Experimenting with Different Styles

While the scooped sound is often associated with metal, it’s versatile enough to explore other styles. You might be surprised how well it can work in different genres:

• Blues: Adding a hint of scoop can give blues solos a modern edge.
• Rock: For a heavier rock sound, a slight scoop can add power without overwhelming the mix.
• Alternative: Use the scooped tone for unique textures and dynamic contrast.

Don’t be afraid to experiment outside of metal. A scooped tone can add a fresh twist to your playing, no matter the genre. Plus, experimenting with different styles can improve your overall musicianship.

Final Thoughts

Getting that scooped guitar sound is all about finding the right balance between your gear and technique. Remember, every setup is unique, so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works for you. If you’re looking for more guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists, providing insights that can help you refine your sound and playing style. Happy riffing!