What are these weird Doritos picks that Daron Malakian uses?
The Unique Picks of Daron Malakian: Unveiling the Mystery
Daron Malakian, the renowned guitarist of the band System of a Down, has captivated audiences with his distinctive guitar playing style. One intriguing aspect of his gear setup is the peculiar picks he uses during his performances. These picks have become a subject of curiosity among fans and guitar enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will delve into the details of these mysterious picks and shed light on the secrets behind Daron Malakian’s choice.
The Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle Picks
Daron Malakian’s primary preference when it comes to picks is the Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle series. Specifically, he favors picks with thicknesses of .43mm and .96mm. The Delrin material offers a unique combination of durability, flexibility, and a smooth surface that allows for comfortable grip and precise control over the strings. These picks provide a distinctive tonal response, contributing to Malakian’s signature guitar sound.
Exploring Previous Picks: Dunlop Tortex Triangles
While the Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle picks have become his go-to choice in recent years, Daron Malakian has also used Dunlop Tortex triangles in the past. The Tortex series is known for its balanced feel, excellent grip, and versatility, making it a popular choice among guitarists across various genres. Although Malakian has transitioned to the Delrin Triangle picks, his experimentation with different picks highlights his commitment to finding the perfect tool for his unique playing style.
The Strings: Ernie Ball and Super Slinky
In addition to the distinctive picks, Daron Malakian pays meticulous attention to his choice of guitar strings. He has been known to use Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom .10-.52 gauge strings, which provide a balanced blend of lightness and heaviness, allowing him to achieve the desired tonal range and playability. Furthermore, he has also utilized the Ernie Ball 2223 Super Slinky guitar strings, which are renowned for their bright tone and smooth feel.
The Guitar Rig: A Diverse Arsenal
Daron Malakian’s guitar rig is a treasure trove of diverse instruments that contribute to his distinct sound. Among his collection, he includes Ibanez Iceman guitars, Gibson SG Standard, Jackson Randy Rhoads RR5, Gibson Les Paul Standard, Fender Standard Stratocaster, and more. Each guitar brings its unique tonal characteristics, allowing Malakian to explore a wide range of sounds and textures in his performances.
The Amplifiers: Power and Versatility
To complement his array of guitars, Daron Malakian utilizes a variety of amplifiers to achieve the desired sonic impact. His amplifier choices include Marshall 100-watt Plexi Tube Guitar Amp Heads, Marshall MODE FOUR amplifiers, Mesa Boogie Dual and Triple Rectifier amps, and a combination of Marshall and Mesa Boogie cabinets. These amplifiers offer a blend of power, versatility, and tonal richness, enabling Malakian to create a diverse range of guitar tones that suit System of a Down’s distinctive sound.
Effects Pedals: Sculpting the Sonic Landscape
Daron Malakian incorporates an assortment of effects pedals to shape and enhance his guitar tones. He has been known to use pedals from renowned brands such as BOSS, Strymon, MXR, Line 6, and EHX. These pedals provide him with a wide palette of effects, including distortion, modulation, delay, and reverb, allowing him to craft captivating and atmospheric guitar textures that are integral to System of a Down’s music.
In conclusion, Daron Malakian’s unique guitar picks, including the Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle series, contribute to his distinctive sound and playing style. Alongside his choice of picks, his selection of strings, diverse guitar collection, amplifiers, and effects pedals all play vital roles in sculpting the sonic landscape that defines his musical identity.
Sources:
- System of a Down’s Daron Malakian’s Guitar Rig Gear and Equipment. Retrieved from https://www.uberproaudio.com/who-plays-what/166-system-of-a-downs-daron-malakians-guitar-rig-gear-and-equipment
- System of a Down Daron Malakian NHL Triangle Guitar Pick – 2011 Tour SOAD | eBay. Retrieved from https://www.ebay.com/itm/204062744579
FAQs
What kind of picks does Daron Malakian use?
Daron Malakian primarily uses Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle picks, specifically the .43mm and .96mm sizes.
Why are Daron Malakian’s picks considered “weird”?
The term “weird” is subjective and may be used to describe the unique shape and material of the Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle picks that Daron Malakian uses. Their triangle shape and unconventional design set them apart from traditional guitar picks.
What are the advantages of the Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle picks?
The Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle picks offer a combination of durability, flexibility, and a smooth surface, allowing for comfortable grip and precise control over the strings. They also provide a distinctive tonal response, contributing to Malakian’s signature guitar sound.
Has Daron Malakian used any other types of picks?
Yes, in the past, Daron Malakian has been known to use Dunlop Tortex triangles. The Dunlop Tortex series is valued for its balanced feel, excellent grip, and versatility.
Are Daron Malakian’s picks available for purchase?
Yes, Daron Malakian’s picks, including the Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle picks, can be found online and in select music stores. They are often sought after by fans and guitar enthusiasts.
Can I achieve Daron Malakian’s sound by using the same picks?
While using the same picks as Daron Malakian can help you get closer to his sound, it’s important to note that tone is influenced by various factors, including the player’s technique, guitar, amplifier, and effects. Experimenting with different picks and finding what works best for your playing style is key to developing your unique sound.
Are there any specific guitar techniques associated with Daron Malakian’s picks?
Daron Malakian is known for his aggressive and rhythmic playing style. The use of triangle-shaped picks can contribute to the attack, precision, and control required for his distinctive guitar techniques.
Can I use Daron Malakian’s picks for different music genres?
Absolutely! While Daron Malakian is primarily associated with rock and metal genres, the Jim Dunlop Delrin Triangle picks can be used across various musical styles. Their versatility makes them suitable for different genres and playing techniques.