85 M-2 Lead
The model 85 M-2 Lead is a high-gain amplifier designed for rock, hard rock and metal, with a bright and defined sound, perfect for punchy leads and powerful crunch:
- Powerful and dynamic sound
- Comprehensive EQ controls to shape your tone
- Adjustable drive to go from light crunch to full distortion
- Master Volume and Output Level to control pressure and boost
Ideal for humbucker or single coil guitars that need definition and cut in the mix.
Controls
Activate the high frequency boost:
- Y → brighter and sharper sound
- N → softer and fuller sound
Control the high frequencies:
- Low → smooth sound
- High → bright and punchy
Control the mid frequencies:
- Low → natural scoop
- High → more body and presence
- Fundamental for standing out in the mix
Control the low frequencies:
- Low → tight and controlled
- High → full and powerful
Controls the final brilliance:
- Low → soft sound
- High → sharper and more open Affects definition and “air” of the sound
Controls the overall level of the channel:
- Low → controlled sound
- High → more body and punch
Controls channel saturation:
- Low → light crunch
- High → full distortion
- Interacts with Master Volume for sustain and compression
Controls the overall power of the amplifier:
- Low → less pressure
- High → more push
- Allows you to adjust the overall feel without changing the timbre
Controls the final volume:
- Negative → attenuation 0 d
- B → neutral
- Positive → boost Does not alter the timbre
Pro Tips
BEHAVIOR OF THE AMPLIFIER
- Bright and punchy sound, ideal for powerful leads and crunches
- Modular drive for slightly crunchy clean sounds up to full distortions
- Full EQ to tailor the sound to any guitar or live/studio situation
Advice:
- Bright + Treble high → sharp sound for lead
- Middle medium-high → maintains body and presence
- Controlled bass → avoids muddying with high drive
- Volume + Master Volume → adjusts the boost without altering the timbre
Final advice:
- High Bright + High Treble → punchy lead sound
- High drive + moderate Master Vol → full but controlled distortion
- Middle and Presence → balance body and definition
Setup Examples
Crunch rock / powerful rhythm
Brilliant lead/lead
Hard rock / full distortion
Slash – “Classic Rock Lead”
Description: Bright, punchy sound, perfect for melodic solos and classic rock riffs with moderate sustain.
Zakk Wylde – “Heavy Crunch / Metal”
Description: Powerful, dense and aggressive sound, perfect for palm-muting, heavy rhythms and metal leads.
Paul Gilbert – “Shredding Lead”
Description: Crisp, defined sound, ideal for shredding, Legato and complex arpeggios with great clarity on high notes.
Quick Tips:
- Slash → melodic lead, moderate crunch
- Zakk Wylde → heavy rhythm, high sustain, aggressive gain
- Paul Gilbert → clear lead, definition and speed