85 M-2 Lead Cap Mod
The model 85 M-2 Lead Cap Mod is a modified version of the M-2 Lead, designed to offer:
- Brighter and more defined sound on high frequencies
- Greater clarity and attack on leads
- Precise drive and master volume control
- Ideal for rock, hard rock, metal and punchy leads
This version emphasizes the high frequency response thanks to the capacitor mod, improving definition and cut in the mix.
Controls
Activate the high frequency boost:
- Y → bright and punchy sound
- N → softer and fuller sound
Control the high frequencies:
- Low → soft sound
- High → bright and cutting
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 punch and body
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 altering 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 defined sound, excellent for controlled leads and crunch
- Modular drive from light crunch to full distortion
- EQ optimized to emphasize high definition thanks to the cap mod
- Master Volume and Output Level allow precise thrust adjustment
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 Cap Mod”
Description: Bright, punchy lead with moderate sustain, perfect for classic rock riffs and melodic solos.
Zakk Wylde – “Heavy Crunch / Metal Cap Mod”
Description: Powerful, dense and aggressive sound, great for palm-muting rhythms and heavy metal-style leads.
Paul Gilbert – “Shredding Lead Cap Mod”
Description: Crisp, defined lead, ideal for shredding, Legato and complex arpeggios, with maximum clarity on high notes.
Quick Tips:
- Slash → melodic lead, moderate crunch, “edgy” sound
- Zakk Wylde → high gain, heavy rhythms and powerful sustain
- Paul Gilbert → crisp and fast lead, perfect for complex solos