How to Dial In "Scissors" by Slipknot - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Scissors"
Suggested rig · the original isn't documented.
Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
On your amp, these numbers won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
From Slipknot (1999), the band's debut album. A dark, low-tuned riff song with tight palm muting and dissonant leads. No source available here confirms the exact guitar and amp on this recording, so an ESP LTD MH-1000 through a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier stands in. Use the bridge pickup and set the amp to tight high gain with the mids scooped slightly. Tuning isn't documented here.
Common Questions About the "Scissors" Tone
What guitar did Slipknot use on "Scissors"?
The guitar on "Scissors" (released 1999) isn't documented; the ESP LTD MH-1000 above gets the sound. Pickup selector: bridge pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Scissors" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 8, Bass 6.5, Mid 4.5, Treble 6.5, Presence 6.5, Volume 6. 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 "Scissors" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Scissors" 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 "Scissors" by Slipknot are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.