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Currently on tour in Australia, Michael graciously
agreed to answer some questions for Ellaways Music prior
to an instore appearance. Here are some edited highlights
from the interview...
Firstly, How has the tour been going
and does the line-up rotate?
The tour is going very well, thank you! The Perth show
was amazing, the fans there completely destroyed, the
rest of Australia has something to live up to there!
Line-up of tour does not rotate.
What is your live rig made up of?
I have four different ESP 'NINJA V' Michael Amott signature
models with me on this run. A black 'original' Ninja
V with the mirror pick guard, a white Ninja V with the
mirror pick guard and my 'secret weapons' - the two
brand new prototypes for 2008!
I am currently using the RANDALL RM100 amps with the
following pre-amp modules: ULTRA XL (Lead), ULTRA XL
(Rhythm), BLACKFACE or DELUXE (Clean). IIn my rack I
have a DUNLOP DCR-2SR Custom Shop Rack Wah (with two
remotes), DIGITECH GSP 1101 and a KORG DTR-2000 tuner.
I am running that through RANDALL XL cabs loaded with
CELESTION speakers (Vintage 30s).
My strings are D'ADDARIO, gauges are: 59, 44, 32, 18,
15, 11 (Custom set)
Is there any new equipment that has
captured your imagination?
Yeah, the concept of the Randall RM100 series with the
switch-able tube pre-amps is revolutionary and amazing.
What is your most prized possession
in your rig?
My signature model ESP Ninja Vs, I am very proud of
them!
How does your live rig differ from
your recording setup?
Well, in the studio I break out my huge arsenal of stomp
boxes (both vintage and new). I also use a wider variety
of amps and cabs in the studio. Were as in the live
situation I tend to go with fairly simple set-up. On
tour it is very important to have equipment that is
durable and sounds great. In the studio it's OK if it
sounds great, doesn't have to be durable!
Do you have a favourite guitar in
your collection and do you use it on tour?
I have a lot of guitars and I only bring 2-4 guitars
on the road depending on the type of tour/show we are
doing. I have to say that my Ninja Vs are my favourite
guitars as they are made
Can you tell us about your new signature
model ESP?
Well, if you come to the shows you'll see me playing
the protypes! After playing the original black Ninja
V for a few years now on the road I came up with a few
mods and ESP delivered the goods once again. There is
a black transparent Ninja V w/ white binding, 22 fret,
chrome hardwear, ebony fretboard w/ new 'throwing star'
inlays, satin finish on back of neck
otherwise,
most of the specs are the same as the original Ninja
V. Mahogany body and so on
Then there is the red
transparent one, 24 fret ebony fretboard w/ new 'throwing
star' inlays, original Floyd Rose, this guitar is a
beautiful beast! I'm very excited about these guitars!
What led you to endorsing Randall
amps?
The usual routine, I just tried the amps and loved them!
Great company to work with too.
(Big thanks to Bernie from Ellaways Music Qld for the
questions!)
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