How to Dial In "Megalodon" by Mastodon - Guitar Tone Settings
What Mastodon Actually Used on "Megalodon"
Original Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
These numbers are for a Marshall JCM800 2203. On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
D standard, the tuning Mastodon use across most of their catalogue. The striking section is the middle: an extended bluegrass-derived passage played at metal tempo, with Brent Hinds's banjo-influenced rolls transferred to the guitar — that vocabulary comes from country picking rather than metal, and it is the hardest part to play convincingly. Leviathan is the Moby-Dick concept album, recorded 2004 with Matthew Bayles. Keep the mids present rather than scooped: the riffs are harmonically busier than most sludge and need the movement to be audible. Hinds and Bill Kelliher play interlocking rather than doubled parts throughout.
Common Questions About the "Megalodon" Tone
What guitar did Mastodon use on "Megalodon"?
Mastodon tracked "Megalodon" on a Gibson Flying V (released 2004). Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar. The track is in D Standard (D G C F A D), so retune before you dial anything in.
What amp settings does "Megalodon" need?
On Marshall JCM800 2203: Gain 7, Bass 5.5, Mid 6.5, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, Volume 7. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale; match them on your amp first, then nudge to taste. ToneMirror can translate these positions for whatever amp you actually own.
Can I play "Megalodon" without a Marshall JCM800 2203?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Megalodon" tone on a Katana, a Helix, a tube combo, or anything else. The translation accounts for EQ curve, gain structure, and pickup type so the result actually sounds like the record, not just the same knob numbers on different gear.
More Tones You Can Dial In
Tone references for "Megalodon" by Mastodon are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.