John Petrucci - Guitar Setup & Tunings
Dream Theater
Quick Facts
- Primary Tuning
- Standard
- String Gauge
- .010, .012, .016, .024, .036, .046 (6-string), .009-.056 (7-string)
- String Brand
- Ernie Ball (Custom gauges)
- Genre
- Metal
About John Petrucci's Sound
John Peter Petrucci (born 1967) is Dream Theater's founder and guitarist, widely considered one of the most technically accomplished rock guitarists ever. His playing spans metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion with equal facility. Petrucci co-founded the Berklee-spawned Dream Theater in 1985, and the band has led progressive metal ever since. His signature Music Man guitars and Mesa Boogie amplifiers became industry standards. Beyond Dream Theater, Petrucci has released solo albums, collaborated with Joe Satriani, and teaches through instructional materials. His work ethic and continuous improvement are legendary in guitar circles.
Tunings Used
E Standard - 6 songs
- Pull Me UnderTry this tuning →
- Metropolis Pt. 1Try this tuning →
- The Spirit Carries OnTry this tuning →
- Stream of ConsciousnessTry this tuning →
- The Dance of EternityTry this tuning →
- Fatal TragedyTry this tuning →
Drop D (6-string) - 1 song
- Panic AttackTry this tuning →
B Standard (7-string) - 1 song
- The Glass PrisonTry this tuning →
Drop A (7-string) - 1 song
- In the Name of GodTry this tuning →
String Setup
Primary Strings
Ernie Ball (Custom gauges)
.010, .012, .016, .024, .036, .046 (6-string), .009-.056 (7-string)
Why John Petrucci uses these
Petrucci's custom string gauges vary depending on the guitar - his 6-strings use .010-.046 with a heavier wound G (.024), while his 7-strings use .009-.056. The heavier wound G string improves intonation for his precise playing. He changes string gauges throughout tours as his fingers toughen. His Music Man Majesty guitars feature floating tremolos requiring careful string tension balance. Petrucci's technique demands consistent response - he practices scales and exercises for hours daily even after decades of professional playing. His signature Ernie Ball strings are available in his exact specifications.