Daron Malakian, a prominent figure in the rock and metal scenes, is best known as the guitarist and co-vocalist of the band System of a Down. His innovative approach to guitar playing has made him a key player in shaping the band’s distinctive sound. Additionally, he is a key member of Scars on Broadway, where his guitar skills continue to shine.
Daron Malakian has carved out a niche for himself with his unique style, which blends elements of metal, alternative rock, and Middle Eastern influences. His guitar playing is characterized by aggressive riffs, intricate solos, and a penchant for complex rhythms. Malakian’s influence extends beyond his bands; his techniques and sound have inspired countless guitarists around the world.
Main Guitars Used by Daron Malakian
Daron Malakian is known for his distinctive choice of guitars, which play a crucial role in defining his sound. Two of his most notable instruments are the Ibanez Iceman and various models of the Gibson SG.
1. Ibanez Iceman
The Ibanez Iceman has become synonymous with Daron Malakian’s sound. His signature model, the Ibanez Iceman DMM1, is a testament to his influence on the guitar world.
Ibanez Iceman DMM1 Features:
Body Shape and Design: The DMM1 features the classic Iceman body shape with a unique, angular design. The body is made of mahogany, contributing to its resonant and warm tone.
Neck and Fingerboard: It has a 3-piece maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard. The 22 frets and the 24.75″ scale length provide a comfortable playing experience and facilitate easier soloing.
Pickups: The guitar is equipped with EMG 81/85 pickups, which deliver a high-output, aggressive sound perfect for metal and hard rock. These active pickups are known for their clarity and powerful tone.
Hardware: The DMM1 comes with a fixed bridge and Grover tuners, which ensure tuning stability and precise intonation. The fixed bridge also contributes to the guitar’s sustain and overall tonal stability.
Malakian’s Ibanez Iceman DMM1 is not just a tool but a crucial part of his sound, embodying his style through its aggressive pickups and solid construction.
2. Gibson SG
In addition to his Ibanez Iceman, Daron Malakian frequently uses Gibson SG models, which offer a different tonal palette and complement his diverse playing style.
Gibson SG Models:
1962 Gibson SG: This vintage model is known for its slim neck and light body, which contribute to its fast playability. The 1962 SG typically features P90 pickups, which provide a gritty, raw sound that contrasts with the more polished tones of his Ibanez Iceman.
Gibson SG Standard: The SG Standard is another favorite of Malakian’s. It offers a more modern sound with its humbucking pickups, which produce a powerful and thick tone. The SG Standard’s solid mahogany body and set neck construction enhance sustain and resonance.
Malakian’s use of the Gibson SG highlights his versatility as a guitarist, allowing him to explore a range of sounds from the vintage P90 growl to the modern humbucker roar.
Amplifiers and Effects
Daron Malakian’s sound is not only shaped by his guitars but also by his choice of amplifiers and effects pedals. His setup is designed to achieve a tone that is both powerful and versatile.
Amplifiers
Marshall JMP 2203 Mk II Master Lead: This amplifier is renowned for its robust, high-gain sound, which is ideal for heavy rock and metal. The JMP 2203 Mk II offers a classic Marshall crunch with plenty of overdrive, making it perfect for Malakian’s aggressive playing style.
Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier: The Dual Rectifier is famous for its versatility and high gain. It provides a wide range of tones from tight, focused metal sounds to rich, creamy overdrive. This amp allows Malakian to switch between different tonal settings with ease, adapting to various musical contexts.
Effects Pedals
Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal Distortion: This pedal is a staple in Malakian’s rig, known for its extreme distortion and sustain. The HM-2 is famous for its “chainsaw” sound, which adds a powerful edge to Malakian’s riffs and solos.
Fulltone Clyde Wah Pedal: The Fulltone Clyde Wah is used to add a vocal-like quality to the guitar’s tone. This wah pedal helps Malakian achieve the expressive, sweeping tones that are a hallmark of his playing style.
Malakian’s choice of amplifiers and effects is integral to his sound, providing the raw power and tonal flexibility needed for his complex musical arrangements.
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Tuning and Playing Style
Daron Malakian’s distinctive sound is heavily influenced by his tuning choices and playing style.
Preferred Tuning
Malakian predominantly uses Drop C tuning (C-G-C-F-A-D), which contributes to his signature heavy and aggressive sound. Drop C tuning lowers the pitch of the guitar, creating a thicker, more resonant tone that enhances the impact of his riffs and chord progressions. This tuning allows for easy access to power chords and complex riffs, aligning with the heavier aspects of his music.
Playing Style and Techniques
Malakian’s playing style is characterized by its technical complexity and rhythmic diversity. He often employs techniques such as:
Alternate Picking: This technique involves using a picking motion that alternates between upstrokes and downstrokes, enabling rapid and precise note articulation.
Sweep Picking: Used for playing fast arpeggios, sweep picking allows Malakian to achieve fluid, melodic lines that stand out in his solos.
Palm Muting: This technique involves resting the edge of the picking hand on the strings while picking, creating a muted, staccato effect that adds punch to his riffs.
Malakian’s ability to combine these techniques with his unique tuning results in a powerful and dynamic playing style that is instantly recognizable.
Signature Gear and Customizations
Daron Malakian’s gear is not only chosen for its performance but also for its unique customizations and signature features.
Ibanez Iceman DMM1: This model features custom specifications tailored to Malakian’s preferences, including the EMG pickups and a unique finish that reflects his personal style. The customizations ensure that the guitar meets his exacting standards for tone and playability.
Gibson SG Modifications: Malakian has been known to modify his Gibson SGs, including adjustments to the pickups and electronics to suit his specific tonal needs. These modifications help him achieve the desired sound for different musical contexts.
Sound and Tone
Daron Malakian’s guitar gear plays a crucial role in shaping his distinctive sound. The combination of his Ibanez Iceman and Gibson SG models, along with his choice of amplifiers and effects pedals, contributes to a tone that is both aggressive and nuanced.
To achieve a sound similar to Malakian’s, consider the following tips:
Guitar Choice: Use a guitar with high-output pickups like the EMG 81/85 for a powerful, cutting tone. Alternatively, explore guitars with humbucking pickups for a thicker, more saturated sound.
Amplifier Settings: Dial in a high-gain setting on your amplifier, such as the Marshall JMP 2203 or Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier. Adjust the EQ to emphasize midrange frequencies for a more aggressive tone.
Effects Pedals: Incorporate a heavy distortion pedal like the Boss HM-2 and a wah pedal for added expressiveness. Experiment with different settings to match Malakian’s signature sound.
By understanding and replicating the gear choices and techniques of Daron Malakian, guitarists can capture elements of his distinctive sound and incorporate them into their own playing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Daron Malakian’s choice of guitars, amplifiers, and effects is integral to his unique sound. His use of the Ibanez Iceman and Gibson SG models, combined with his high-gain amplifiers and distinctive effects pedals, contributes to a tone that is instantly recognizable and highly influential. Understanding the specifics of his gear and techniques provides valuable insights for any guitarist looking to emulate or be inspired by his distinctive style.
