Currently on tour in Australia, Michael graciously agreed to answer some questions for Ellaways Music prior to an instore appearance. Here are some edited highlights from the interview...

Firstly, How has the tour been going and does the line-up rotate?
The tour is going very well, thank you! The Perth show was amazing, the fans there completely destroyed, the rest of Australia has something to live up to there! Line-up of tour does not rotate.
What is your live rig made up of?
I have four different ESP 'NINJA V' Michael Amott signature models with me on this run. A black 'original' Ninja V with the mirror pick guard, a white Ninja V with the mirror pick guard and my 'secret weapons' - the two brand new prototypes for 2008!
I am currently using the RANDALL RM100 amps with the following pre-amp modules: ULTRA XL (Lead), ULTRA XL (Rhythm), BLACKFACE or DELUXE (Clean). In my rack I have a DUNLOP DCR-2SR Custom Shop Rack Wah (with two remotes), DIGITECH GSP 1101 and a KORG DTR-2000 tuner. I am running that through RANDALL XL cabs loaded with CELESTION speakers (Vintage 30s).
My strings are D'ADDARIO, gauges are: 59, 44, 32, 18, 15, 11 (Custom set)
Is there any new equipment that has captured your imagination?
Yeah, the concept of the Randall RM100 series with the switch-able tube pre-amps is revolutionary and amazing.
What is your most prized possession in your rig?
My signature model ESP Ninja Vs, I am very proud of them!
How does your live rig differ from your recording setup?
Well, in the studio I break out my huge arsenal of stomp boxes (both vintage and new). I also use a wider variety of amps and cabs in the studio. Were as in the live situation I tend to go with fairly simple set-up. On tour it is very important to have equipment that is durable and sounds great. In the studio it's OK if it sounds great, doesn't have to be durable!
Do you have a favourite guitar in your collection and do you use it on tour?
I have a lot of guitars and I only bring 2-4 guitars on the road depending on the type of tour/show we are doing. I have to say that my Ninja Vs are my favourite guitars as they are made
Can you tell us about your new signature model ESP?
Well, if you come to the shows you'll see me playing the protypes! After playing the original black Ninja V for a few years now on the road I came up with a few mods and ESP delivered the goods once again. There is a black transparent Ninja V w/ white binding, 22 fret, chrome hardwear, ebony fretboard w/ new 'throwing star' inlays, satin finish on back of neck…otherwise, most of the specs are the same as the original Ninja V. Mahogany body and so on… Then there is the red transparent one, 24 fret ebony fretboard w/ new 'throwing star' inlays, original Floyd Rose, this guitar is a beautiful beast! I'm very excited about these guitars!
What led you to endorsing Randall amps?
The usual routine, I just tried the amps and loved them! Great company to work with too.
(Big thanks to Bernie from Ellaways Music Qld for the questions!)