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Metallica Tuning Guide — All You Need to Know

Caricatures of two guitarists resembling Metallica members

Metallica’s music has transcended generations, captivating fans with its raw energy and technical prowess. But achieving that signature Metallica sound goes beyond just fast picking and powerful riffs. Tuning plays a crucial role in shaping the character and feel of their music. In this Metallica tuning guide, I will explore the various configurations James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett utilize to create their sonic landscapes.

Popular Songs and Their Tunings by Metallica

  • Standard E: This is the most common tuning for guitars, and it’s used on most of Metallica’s albums, including Kill Em All, Ride the Lightning, Master of Puppets, …And Justice for All, the Black Album (except “Sad But True” and “The God That Failed”), and Hardwired…To Self-Destruct (except “Dream No More”).
  • Eb Tuning: This tuning is achieved by lowering all the strings one-half step. Metallica uses Eb tuning on “The God That Failed,” “Killing Time,” Motörheadache,” “Load,” most of ReLoad, and Garage Inc. (New Recordings ’98). Read more about Eb tuning.
  • D Standard: D standard tuning is achieved by lowering all the strings in two whole steps. Metallica uses D standard tuning on “The Thing That Should Not Be,” “The Small Hours,” “Sad But True,” “Devil’s Dance,” “Sabbra Cadabra,” “Whiskey in the Jar,” and “Dream No More.” Read more about D Standard tuning.
  • Drop C# Tuning: In drop C# tuning, only the E string is lowered two whole steps, resulting in a C# note. Metallica uses this tuning for one song, “Bad Seed.”
  • Drop C Tuning: Drop C tuning is similar to drop D tuning, but the E string is lowered three whole steps, resulting in a C note. Metallica uses drop C tuning on “Human” and “St. Anger” (except “Dirty Window,” “Invisible Kid,” and “The Unnamed Feeling”).
  • Drop G# Tuning and Drop A# Tuning: These tunings are achieved by lowering the E string and A string whole steps. Metallica uses drop G# tuning on “Invisible Kid” and drop A# tuning on “The Unnamed Feeling.”
  • Drop D Tuning: Drop D tuning is achieved by lowering only the E string down two whole steps. Metallica uses drop D tuning on “All Nightmare Long” and “Just a Bullet Away.” Read more about Drop D and Double Drop D tunings.

What Tuning Does Metallica Use for Master of Puppets?

Metallica actually uses Standard E tuning for “Master of Puppets.” This might surprise some listeners, especially those familiar with the band’s later explorations into heavier sounds achieved through dropped tunings. However, for their early and thrash metal masterpieces like Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets, James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett relied on the clarity and brightness of standard E tuning. 

This choice allowed them to create the album’s signature riffs, like the galloping main riff of “Master of Puppets,” without sacrificing the razor-sharp precision of their picking. Standard E tuning also provides a platform for the intricate lead guitar work featured throughout the album, ensuring each note rings out clearly.

What Tuning is One by Metallica?

There’s a slight twist with the tuning for “One” by Metallica. The studio version isn’t exactly in standard tuning.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Technically not Standard E: While some sources might say “One” is in standard E, it’s actually about 20 cents sharp. This means it’s slightly higher in pitch than true standard tuning.

In practice, this difference is very subtle. For most guitarists, using a standard E tuning will get you close enough to the sound of the recording.

What Tuning Does Metallica Use Live?

Metallica primarily uses Eb tuning live for a significant portion of their setlist. This means all the strings on their guitars are tuned down a half step compared to standard E tuning.

Here’s why they might choose Eb tuning live:

  • Vocal Comfort: As James Hetfield’s voice has matured, singing certain songs in their original E standard tuning might be more strenuous. Eb tuning allows him to deliver vocals with greater ease while maintaining the power and character of the music.
  • Tighter Sound: Lower tunings can create a heavier and more bottom-heavy sound, which translates well to the live setting. This can be particularly noticeable in faster sections and high-energy riffs.
  • Consistency: Eb tuning allows them to play a wider range of songs from their career with minimal adjustments between songs. This ensures a smooth and consistent live performance.

If you are interested in tuning your guitar reliably and accurately for Metallica songs, check out my guide on the best guitar tuners.