System of a Down Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a System of a Down band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
System of a Down is an Armenian-American rock band formed in Southern California in the mid-1990s. The group consists of Serj Tankian (vocals, keyboards), Daron Malakian (guitar, vocals), Shavo Odadjian (bass), and John Dolmayan (drums). Known for their eclectic fusion of genres, System of a Down blends elements of alternative metal, nu-metal, progressive rock, and avant-garde metal, often incorporating politically charged and socially conscious themes into their music. The band achieved widespread acclaim with their breakout album Toxicity, and they are celebrated for their dynamic live performances and innovative sound.
How to Sound Like System of a Down
System of a Down's music is characterized by its aggressive yet melodic nature, featuring rapid tempo changes and complex rhythms. The guitar work, often performed by Daron Malakian, shifts between crisp, distorted riffs and cleaner, more melodic passages, which can be partly attributed to the use of gear like the Marshall JMP 2203 Mk II Master Lead 100w for its high-gain capabilities. The bass lines, provided by Shavo Odadjian on a Gibson Thunderbird IV, contribute to the band's robust and dynamic foundation. John Dolmayan's drumming, executed on a Tama Starclassic Bubinga, is both precise and powerful, driving the band's complex rhythmic structures. System of a Down's sound thrives on the interplay between chaotic intensity and melodic clarity, creating a uniquely compelling listening experience.
Discography
Get the System of a Down Sound
Want to sound like System of a Down? 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.
