Diezel Herbert

The Diezel Herbert is a high-performance guitar amplifier head renowned for its immense power, tonal versatility, and innovative features. Below is a synopsis of its history, popular settings, and notable players.

History of the Diezel Herbert

• Introduction (2000s): The Diezel Herbert was introduced in the early 2000s as part of Peter Diezel's quest to create an amplifier capable of handling the demands of modern guitarists. Designed from scratch with a "clean sheet of paper" approach, the Herbert was tailored for players using extended-range guitars (7- and 8-strings) and those seeking ultra-tight low-end response and percussive attack.
• Design Features: The Herbert is a 180-watt tube amplifier powered by six KT77 power tubes, offering colossal headroom and dynamic range. It features three fully independent channels—Clean, Crunch/Heavy, and Lead—each with its own EQ controls for maximum tonal flexibility. Notable innovations include a Mid Cut feature with adjustable intensity and level, two series effects loops (one switchable), MIDI programmability, and a mute/tuner function for live use.
• Tonal Characteristics: The Herbert is celebrated for its ability to deliver everything from delicate cleans to crushing high-gain tones. Its tight low-end, focused mids, and smooth highs make it suitable for a wide range of genres, from country to bone-crushing djent riffs. Despite its immense power, it performs well even at lower volumes.
• Legacy: The Herbert has become one of Diezel's most iconic amplifiers, praised for its versatility and precision. It remains highly sought after by professional guitarists in both studio and live settings. Modern updates like the MKIII version have further refined its features while maintaining its legendary sound.

Popular Settings

• Clean Tone:
  • Channel 1: Gain at 9 o'clock.
  • Bass/Mid/Treble: Flat or slightly boosted.
  • Mid Cut off.
  • Ideal for pristine cleans with piano-like clarity.
• Crunch/Classic Rock:
  • Channel 2: Gain at noon.
  • Bass: Slight boost (1 o'clock).
  • Midrange: Flat or slight cut (11 o'clock).
  • Treble: Noon.
  • Mid Cut engaged with low intensity.
  • Perfect for classic rock or crunchy rhythm tones.
• High-Gain Metal:
  • Channel 3: Gain at 2-3 o'clock.
  • Bass: Boosted (2 o'clock).
  • Midrange: Slight cut (10-11 o'clock).
  • Treble: Noon or slightly boosted.
  • Mid Cut engaged with high intensity.
  • Suited for modern metal and djent tones.
• Dynamic Playability:
  • Start with all EQ knobs at noon and adjust minimally to explore the amp's wide tonal range.
  • Use MIDI to store presets for live performances.

Notable Players

The Diezel Herbert has been used by numerous influential guitarists across genres:

• Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins): Known for blending clean and mid-cut tones in his live rig for rich dynamics.
• Adam Jones (Tool): Utilized the Herbert for its tight low-end and percussive attack in Tool's complex arrangements.
• Matt Bellamy (Muse): Appreciates the amp's versatility for both soaring leads and heavy riffs.
• Wes Borland (Limp Bizkit): Relies on the Herbert's crushing gain tones for his aggressive playing style.

Summary

The Diezel Herbert remains a benchmark in modern amplifier design, celebrated for its innovative features, tonal precision, and ability to handle the most demanding musical styles. Its legacy endures as one of the most versatile high-gain amps ever created.