Symphony X Members, Gear & Sound

Genre

Progressive rock Progressive metal Metal Speed metal Power metal Symphonic metal neo classical metal progressive power metal neoclassical

Members

Select a Symphony X band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

Michael Romeo

Roles:

Guitarist Composer Music Producer

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Michael Pinnella

Roles:

Keyboardist

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Michael Lepond

Roles:

Bassist

Groups:

Heathens Rage Marius Danielsen’s Legend of Valley Doom Mike LePond's Silent Assassins Holy Force

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Thomas Miller

Roles:

Bassist Composer

Needs more gear

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Jason Rullo

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

Redemption

No gear added

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Russell Allen

Roles:

Singer

Groups:

Ayreon Star One Level 10 Adrenaline Mob

No gear added

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Rod Tyler

Roles:

Singer

No gear added

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Thomas Walling

Roles:

Drummer

No gear added

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About

Symphony X is an American progressive metal band known for their intricate compositions and powerful sound that seamlessly blends elements of symphonic metal, neo-classical metal, and progressive rock. Formed in 1994 in New Jersey by guitarist Michael Romeo, the band's lineup features Russell Allen (vocals), Michael Pinnella (keyboards), Michael LePond (bass), and Jason Rullo (drums). Symphony X gained significant recognition with albums like The Divine Wings of Tragedy and The Odyssey, both of which showcase their ability to merge complex musical structures with melodic sensibility.

How to Sound Like Symphony X

Symphony X’s music is characterized by its complex, aggressive, and symphonic sound, often marked by intricate guitar work and orchestral keyboard arrangements. The band's sonic character is both melodic and powerful, with a focus on dynamic shifts and technical proficiency. Michael Romeo's guitar tone is rich and articulate, frequently using high-gain amplification like the Engl Powerball 645 MK1 to achieve a crisp, yet heavy sound. His use of the Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer adds a tight, overdriven edge, crucial for cutting through the dense, symphonic mix. On keyboards, Michael Pinnella employs lush, layered textures, often using synthesizers like the Yamaha Motif ES7 to create rich, orchestral backdrops that complement the band's dramatic musical narratives.

Discography

Symphony X (Special Edition)

1994

The Damnation Game (Special Edition)

1995

The Divine Wings of Tragedy (Special Edition)

1997

Twilight in Olympus (Special Edition)

1998

V: The New Mythology Suite

2000

Live on the Edge of Forever

2001

The Odyssey

2002

Paradise Lost

2007

Iconoclast

2011

Underworld

2015

Get the Symphony X Sound

Want to sound like Symphony X? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.