Hangar 18

The recording

Hangar 18 was recorded for Megadeth’s 1990 album *Rust in Peace*. Both Dave Mustaine and Marty Friedman tracked their parts on Jackson Pro Series Rhoads RRT‑3 guitars tuned a half‑step down (E♭ Standard) and using the bridge pickup. An MXR M109S six‑band graphic EQ was placed in the amp’s effects loop, shaping the tone with a light scoop and tightening the high end, giving the dual‑harmony leads their aggressive clarity. The rhythm tracks were recorded with tight palm‑muted chugs, while the harmonized solos were overdubbed separately before being layered.

Tuning E♭ Standard (half‑step down)

Reported gear

1990 Jackson Pro Series Rhoads RRT-3

Guitar

Dave Mustaine recorded his rhythm parts on a Jackson Pro Series Rhoads RRT‑3, tuned a half‑step down and using the bridge pickup for the aggressive crunch of Hang 18.

Marshall JCM800 2203 (100‑W) Lead

Amp

MXR M109S Six Band Graphic EQ

EQ

A six‑band graphic EQ (MXR M109S) was placed in the amp’s effects loop, giving a light scoop and fine‑tuning the high‑end for the dual‑lead sections.

Alternatives

Jackson Rhoads RRT‑3 Standard

Modern equivalent · for the 1990 Jackson Pro Series Rhoads RRT-3

$800 to $1,200

MXR M108 5‑Band Graphic EQ

Modern equivalent · for the MXR M109S Six Band Graphic EQ

$100 to $150

Marshall JCM800 2203 Reissue

Reissue · for the Marshall JCM800 2203 (100‑W) Lead

$900 to $1,200

Practical playing approach

Recreation guidance, not a claim about undocumented studio control positions.

1. 1.Tune all guitars a half‑step down to E♭ standard before playing
2. 2.Select the bridge pickup and keep the tone knob rolled off for maximum attack
3. 3.Use tight alternate picking and palm‑muted chugs on the rhythm parts
4. 4.Practice the dual‑lead harmony lines separately, then blend them slowly
5. 5.Keep the gain high but maintain clarity by controlling pick attack