Deftones Official Shop: Chino Moreno’s Vocal Gear Picks
When Chino Moreno steps on stage, his voice cuts through the mix with a blend of raw power and haunting texture. Fans have long wondered what tools shape that iconic sound. In this guide we explore the vocal gear Chino trusts, and where you can snag the same equipment. From dynamic microphones to boutique preamps, every piece is engineered for the kind of atmospheric intensity that defines Deftones’ music. Ready to amplify your own performance? Let’s dive into the selections that have become staples in Chino’s rig.
Dynamic and Condenser Microphones in Chino’s Arsenal
Chino favors a mix of dynamic and condenser mics to capture both aggression and nuance. On heavy tracks he often reaches for the Shure SM7B, a workhorse known for its smooth low‑end response and ability to handle high SPL without distortion. The SM7B’s built‑in pop filter and internal shock mount make it ideal for energetic live shows.
For studio sessions and more delicate passages, he turns to the Neumann TLM 102. This cardioid condenser delivers crystal‑clear detail and a slightly forward presence that highlights Chino’s falsetto. The TLM 102’s low self‑noise ensures no subtle hiss interferes with vocal layers, allowing the singer’s emotional delivery to shine.
Preamp and Effects Pedals That Shape the Tone
After the microphone, the preamp is where the character truly forms. Chino relies heavily on the Avalon VT‑737sp, a tube preamp that adds warm saturation while preserving clarity. Its built‑in compressor and EQ give him on‑the‑fly control, essential for dynamic live performances.
To sculpt his signature atmospheric vibe, he incorporates the EarthQuaker Devices Avalanche Run. This pedal blends reverb and delay into a lush, swirling texture that sits perfectly behind his vocal lines. Coupled with the TC Electronic Spark Mini, he adds subtle chorus and modulation, creating a multi‑dimensional soundscape that’s become a Deftones hallmark.
Stage Monitors and In‑Ear Solutions for Precise Delivery
Keeping his voice locked in with the band, Chino opts for high‑resolution stage monitors. The West Canton PDX‑4 delivers powerful low frequencies while maintaining crisp highs, allowing him to hear every nuance of his performance. The monitors are paired with a custom‑tuned sub‑woofer, ensuring the low‑end punch that drives the band’s heavy sections.
When the venue demands more discretion, Chino switches to the Shure SE215 in‑ear monitors. These offer excellent isolation and a balanced frequency response that mirrors his stage monitors, ensuring consistency whether he’s on a massive festival stage or a more intimate club.
Shop the Gear at Deftones Official Shop
If you’re inspired to replicate Chino’s setup, the Deftones Official Shop is the one‑stop destination for authentic, artist‑approved equipment. The store carries the Shure SM7B, Neumann TLM 102, Avalon VT‑737sp, and all the boutique pedals featured in his rig. Each item is stocked with the same specifications Chino uses, guaranteeing you get the genuine sound he relies on.
Browsing the shop is simple. Select the “Vocal Gear” category to view every microphone, preamp, and monitor listed. Detailed product descriptions outline the features that make each piece a perfect match for Deftones’ sonic aesthetic. Plus, the shop often bundles accessories like mic stands and cables, streamlining the process of building a complete rig.
Whether you’re a bedroom vocalist or a touring professional, understanding Chino Moreno’s gear choices opens a pathway to richer, more expressive performances. The combination of classic microphones, tube preamps, and atmospheric pedals creates a versatile platform that can handle everything from whisper‑soft verses to thunderous choruses. By sourcing these components from the Deftones Official Shop, you ensure authenticity and quality, staying true to the sound that has defined a generation of alternative metal.