Dave Mustaine - Guitar Setup & Tunings
Megadeth
Quick Facts
- Primary Tuning
- Standard
- String Gauge
- .010-.052 (Signature set)
- String Brand
- Gibson (Signature), GHS Progressives, Cleartone
- Genre
- Metal
About Dave Mustaine's Sound
David Scott Mustaine (born 1961) co-founded Metallica before being fired for substance abuse in 1983. He channeled his anger into Megadeth, arguably thrash metal's most technically proficient band. His intricate riffing and complex arrangements pushed metal's boundaries. Despite hand injuries that nearly ended his career in 2002, Mustaine returned to form. Megadeth has sold over 50 million albums. His rivalry with Metallica fueled both bands' competitive excellence. Mustaine's playing combines speed, complexity, and aggression. He became a born-again Christian in 2002, though Megadeth's music remained heavy.
Tunings Used
E Standard - 4 songs
- Holy Wars...The Punishment DueTry this tuning →
- Hangar 18Try this tuning →
- Peace SellsTry this tuning →
- Tornado of SoulsTry this tuning →
Eb Standard - 4 songs
- Symphony of DestructionTry this tuning →
- Sweating BulletsTry this tuning →
- A Tout le MondeTry this tuning →
- TrustTry this tuning →
String Setup
Primary Strings
Gibson (Signature), GHS Progressives, Cleartone
.010-.052 (Signature set)
Why Dave Mustaine uses these
Mustaine uses a .010-.052 gauge set - heavier than typical for his predominantly standard tuning work. His signature strings emphasize the heavier bottom end for tight rhythm playing while maintaining bendability on top. He's worked with multiple string companies (GHS, Cleartone, Gibson) on signature sets. His Jackson and Dean signature guitars feature his preferred specifications. Mustaine's downpicking is nearly as legendary as Hetfield's, requiring durable strings. The heavier gauges contribute to Megadeth's precise, articulate tone that contrasts with thrashier, sloppier approaches.