Marco Sfogli Signature Tone (Helix Preset)

Update: 3-25-24: I wasn't completely pleased with the harsh tones this preset was putting out. I tried everything but decided it was just a characteristic of the Cali Rectifire amp model. So I did the best I could by tweaking some of the amp settings like reducing the Presence and Master Volume and the Gain on the Scream 808 pedal.

I also replaced the cab with a Dual cab setting with the same cab for both, but adding a Ribbon 121 mic to help tame the harshness. This worked out nicely. The harsh crackle is still there a bit, but it's a more balanced overall tone as a result. Download the newly added EBMrcSfliRct3.71.hlx file to try and see if you like it.

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Update: 6-8-23: Since the major "Cabinet" Helix 3.5 update, I haven't gotten around to refining this preset like I wanted to. Now, I've finally implemented the newer cabs, tweaked a few parameters, and added even more snapshots, making this preset sound even better. So try it out by downloading the EBMrcSfliRct3.61.hlx included preset!

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In this Signature Helix LT preset—also compatible with Helix Floor, Helix Native, and Helix Rack—you'll be getting the lead tone I created based on the specs from an interview I conducted in 2020 with the legendary guitarist for James Labrie, Marco Sfogli!

The preset uses the "Cali Rectifire" and "Cali IV Lead" amp models, the Rectifire being the closest thing to the amp Marco himself described during our interview. I tried to match all the specs he mentioned as closely as possible within the Helix LT. In my humble opinion, I ended up with a very close resemblance to Marco's signature tone.

Stay tuned for updates as I continue to listen to Marco's songs and solos while also honing the preset.

"Hey. I just wanted to let you know I got your preset. It's actually the best one I've used yet!" - Phil A.

In this preset pack, you'll get the following snapshots:

Snapshot 1: SIG LEAD

• Marco's basic lead tone

Snapshot 2: LEAD BOOST

• Introduces a tube screamer-type pedal and a boost in Presence for additional gain for more intense solos and breaks

Snapshot 3: LEAD MODL8

• Same as Snapshot 2 with an added chorus effect for some extra stereo width

Snapshot 4: LUSH LEAD

• This snapshot uses the Cali IV Lead amp instead of the Cali Rectifire amp model for a more compressed and smooth lead tone

Snapshot 5: -2 TUNED

• Introduces Pitch effect to the Lead Boost tone to simulate downtuning your guitar a whole-step

Snapshot 6: -1 TUNED

• introduces Pitch effect to the Lead Boost tone to simulate downtuning your guitar a half-step

Snapshot 7: RHYTHM

• Utilizes the Cali IV Lead amp with scooped mids and less reverb for tight rhythm guitars*

Snapshot 8: RHYTHM BOOST

• Same as snapshot 7 but with the Tube Screamer and Cali Q Graphic EQ engaged

As with all my presets, once you purchase my presets, whenever significant changes are made as I continue to tweak the tones you'll always have the most up-to-date versions.

If you're considering getting your own Helix modeler, check out my gear page link for more information.

(Also, if you'd like to see the process of how I created the original version of this preset, check out the YouTube video I made on the subject, as also seen in the sidebar of this page.)

*Pro Tip: For even wider guitar sounds, consider using a dual-cab in place of the single cab and shift the Delay for one of the cabs slightly. Or, keep the single cab and add the mono/stereo ADT delay or the stereo Dual Delay and tweak for a wider sound.