Do something as simple as change the cab and/or mic on the preset and it will sound totally different. There are a lot of other things you can change but this is the quickest way to find the sound you are looking for. My Spider V is the best sounding amp I have ever heard but I didn't care for the presets on the harder tones either. I was ready to send it back until I changed the Cab and Mic. Wow, what a difference. There are several Mic and Cab configs to choose from not to mention all the EQ. This amp is awesome.