Decreace the angle of the pick relative to the string, and use a very short portion of the pick ( do not dig into the string ). To prevent early hearing loss, use a stronger distortion or overdrive pedal, or use them to boost the signal prior to preamp gain section (set pedal controls to : tone=flat, volume=max and almost no drive). Moderate the treble on the amp and boost the mids a bit. It's not exactly ultra-high-volume plexi, but it's much less irritating. Practice slowly and use a metronome or scratch will be all you produce. Good luck and remember...