Starting-point EQ for metalcore tone, averaged from 28 famous metalcore recordings. Dial these in, then fine-tune by ear — or let the tool below adapt them to the exact amp and guitar you own.
Soft Spine — Spiritbox · Perfect Soul — Spiritbox · All Will Be (N)One — Distant · In Between — Beartooth · Stitch — Wage War · Nothing Left — As I Lay Dying · Composure — August Burns Red · This Is Exile — Whitechapel
Averaged across 28 famous metalcore recordings: gain 8, bass 5.5, mid 5.5, treble 6.5, presence 6.5 (out of 10). Metalcore runs metal-level gain but keeps the MIDS UP (around 5–6, higher than classic metal) so the riffs cut and the leads sing. Drop-tune (Drop C/B/A), put a Tube Screamer in front to tighten the low end, and gate it tight for staccato chugs.
Start with gain 8, bass 5.5, mid 5.5, treble 6.5, presence 6.5 (all out of 10), then fine-tune by ear. Lower the gain for cleaner passages, and push the mids up if the guitar disappears in a band mix.
The amps most used across these metalcore tones are Mesa Dual Rectifier, Peavey 5150, Marshall JCM800. You don’t need the exact amp, though — GuitarToneAdapt re-dials any metalcore tone for the amp and guitar you already own, free in the browser.
Set the starting EQ above, then let GuitarToneAdapt compensate for your specific amp, guitar and pedals so it sits like the record — no new gear needed.