This month, we dive into the world of Skillet, the dynamic rock band from Tennessee, as we explore the essential gear that guitarists Seth Morrison and Korey Cooper rely on during their electrifying performances. This insightful discussion is a must-read for any musician whose touring commitments have escalated from demanding to exceptional.
Seth reflects on the evolution of their setup, recalling a time when everything was purely analog and straightforward. However, with an increasing number of shows and varying setlists, the need for digital switching solutions became apparent.
Seth Morrison’s Gear Breakdown
“In the past,we operated entirely on analog gear without any switchers,” Seth shares. “However, with our rigorous touring schedule, it became challenging to manage our rigs effectively. We integrated Boss ES-8 MIDI switchers, which have simplified our setup immensely. This device acts as the central hub for our equipment.”
Detailing his signal chain, Seth mentions using a Boss TU-3S tuner, a Jim Dunlop JP95 john Petrucci wah pedal, and a DigiTech Whammy DT, which allows for versatile drop-tuning capabilities. He also employs a Tube Screamer-like effect,favoring the Fortin Hexdrive for its reliability.
“I also utilize the Cusack Screamer V3 Overdrive, which combines fuzz and Tube Screamer characteristics, allowing for a unique blend,” he adds. “Recently, I’ve incorporated a JHS Muffuletta, which features the circuits of the iconic EHX Big Muff.”
In addition to his signature distortion pedal from Westminster Effects, Seth also uses the Westminster Edwards Overdrive V2, followed by a Wampler Terraform modulation pedal and a Source Audio Nemesis delay. To wrap up his setup, he includes a Source Audio ventris dual reverb for atmospheric depth.
korey Cooper’s Pedalboard Essentials
Korey echoes Seth’s sentiments regarding the Boss MIDI switcher, stating, “It serves as the core of my setup. I prefer a bold, crunchy tone and rarely opt for a clean sound. My style is heavily driven, with effects layered in to create depth and texture.”
“My signal chain kicks off with the Boss TU-3W Waza Craft Tuner, followed by a DigiTech Drop, a Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor, and a Tube Screamer that I keep engaged most of the time.Below these, I have an EQ2 Programmable Equalizer and a Source audio Atlas Compressor,” he explains.
Continuing, Korey mentions his use of a Source Audio Vertigo Tremolo, a Source Audio Nemesis Delay, and a source Audio Ventris Reverb, along with a Strymon BlueSky V2 reverb. He also has a secondary section on his board featuring a diffrent tuner,a TC electronic Polytune,along with another DigiTech Drop and a Keeley Roto Sonic Rotary Speaker.
If I Could Only Choose One Pedal for a Full Show…
Morrison: “It would have to be my wah pedal. I rely on it for many lead parts. The Whammy would be a close second.”
Cooper: ”I’d go with the Nemesis Delay. It adds so much to my sound, and I need that atmospheric quality in my performances.”
