Model of guitar or bass:
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Red lace sensor
Other pickups on guitar:
blue lace sensor (neck) gold lace sensor (middle)
Artists using this pickup:
no clue other than myself
You musical style(s):
anything from jazz to blues to classic rock to metal
Reason for pickup change:
my red lace sensor didn’t work right, one of the coils must have split so it gave a really weak sound. plus it wasn’t hum cancelling and I wanted more output
Pickup features:
single coil sized humbucker, dual blade, hum cancelling, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Its over 17K ohms
Perceived output level:
Fairly hot, much more than regular single coils, think SD hotrails but much better.
Tone:
There is a definite increase in low end but its not muddy, mids are slightly boosted, highs are average.
Sonic evaluation:
Its an awesome pickup. It gives you that great glassy like strat tone clean as well as an awesome distorted sound suitable for hard rock or metal, all in one pickup, its damn nice. The clean tone is like a normal strat, just a bit louder, it doesn’t distort or anything, unlike the SD hotrails which is similar in output but horrible for clean tones.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Neck/Mid
Artists using this pickup:
Me
You musical style(s):
Punk Rock, Sca-core, Rock and Roll, Gangsta’ Rap
Reason for pickup change:
Fender makes good guitars for the money, but their electronics on lower end models suck crap. The single coil pickups are way to bright, and noisy as a Yak in heat when in phase. I needed more low end, and the noise was preventing me from having children.
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil sized Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
??
Perceived output level:
This goes perfect with the other pickups, it is about .5% louder than the rest, so I get good overdrive, without a huge gap between sounds.
Tone:
This is the perfect pickup if you don’t want a Strat (quack) OR a Gibson (moo) sound. I get an all around good sound… lots of lows, more mids, average highs.
Sonic evaluation:
I have a fairly simple setup, a Crate GX65 combo with a Strat. I’ve had 2 guitars before this, both humbucking. The Strat with the new pickup worked awesome with the amp. It was a tad to harsh for clean, so I might get an E.Q. pedal so I can fine tune it. It works great on distortion, I can a great old school punk sound without any magic pedals (like the DOD PUNKIFIER!! HA!) The same goes for Rock and Roll… like Black Sabbath type stuff. If you want Jimi Hendrix type sounds, don’t go with this pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play all kinds of Punk music, but I’m not a 3 chord kid. I also play old Smashing Pumpkins, King Crimson, and Sonic Youth… so you can trust me. This pickup is perfect for old fashioned distortion. This would make a crappy neck or mid pickup, put it in Bridge.
Model of guitar or bass:
Custom setup former Profile
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Oringinal “thing”
Other pickups on guitar:
other original “things”
Artists using this pickup:
Myself
You musical style(s):
Jazz, Metal (including metal sounding classical)
Reason for pickup change:
Needed to sound like I was playing guitar and not an ice-cream bucket with elastic bands.
Pickup features:
single coil size humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
It is High output for a bridge pickup
Tone:
Clean, it doesn’t really give a nice warm tone… But it is DESIGNED for high gain. Under heavy distortion It was crisp and bassy, glassy highs and low level mids (cheer)
Sonic evaluation:
Through my Seymour Duncan convertible… Running the guitar with Dean Markley 10’s, through a metal zone with full distortion…
It was a wet dream for a “metal head” on a Strat!. Sounded akin to the sound that Metallica used to get out of their ESP’s with EMG pickups. The bass was tight with just the right wallop.
As a lead pickup it was extreemly high gain, causing me to lower the treble on my amp. It has a good cutting through lead, I managed to emulate Satriani sounds found on The Extremist VERY closely
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
The pickup is SPECIFIED as a bridge ony pickup. Only an idiot would put it in neck. For High Gain usage.
Model of guitar or bass:
Aria Pro II RS Knight Warrior
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Schaller (I think) single coil
Other pickups on guitar:
Schaller in middle, Evolution on bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Unknown
You musical style(s):
AC/DC, G&R, EVH, you know, rock & metal…
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted a neck position humbucker to get rid of 60hz hum.
However, this was a little to bassy for the neck position.
Sounds ok clean though. Distortion gets lost in the mud.
Pickup features:
Humbucking Single Coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Check DiMarzio’s Page
Perceived output level:
About the same as the Evolution in the bridge.
Tone:
Very Bassy, lower mids, medium highs.
Sonic evaluation:
Not good for the neck. Maybe a less dense wood, like a strat would
handle it ok, but not this thing.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Suitable (maybe) for a dark blues sound. Unsuitable distorted.
Model of guitar or bass:
72 Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock reissue pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock reissue pickups
Artists using this pickup:
Jag Tanna (IME)
You musical style(s):
For this guitar purpose : Rock
Reason for pickup change:
A regular bridge pickup in a strat is thin, and not meant for”screaming hard rock tones”.
Pickup features:
Dual Track, Single Coil Sized, Humbucking Pickup
Impedence or other specs:
17.53K 321Millivolts of output
Perceived output level:
Very high output
Tone:
Bass, Loud, Dark
Sonic evaluation:
I first wanted to modify my guitar putting a humbucker in the bridge position. I have been through too many strats to care if some guy laughed at me because I had a humbucker in the bridge position. A humbucker is essential for hard rock. Although I am happy with this pickup, I would not use this guitar only simply because sometimes you want that thin middy strat pickup, for blues or some rock lines.This pickup is very quiet, doesn’t squeek. It looks very sharp, but it doesn’t matter.This is a very bassy pickup, there’s almost no high end in it. To give you an idea, My neck pickup produces more trebely clicks when I hit the strings against it compared to the new pickup. I have to sometimes use my middle pickup if I want to “cut through”. Yet on the bright side, this pickup is very very good for hard rock, it makes overdrive/distortion boxes sound real full. It sounds better on my Marshall Guv’nor (overdrive box) and my Boss Dual Overdrive than compared to my TS-9.Output. At first when I fasted the pickup to the pickguard, I leveled it to the same level as the top of the other pole pieces on my single coils. It was about double the volume of the neck & middle like this. I lowered it ever so slightly and it blended right in.Tone spectrum:No high-end bite.No midrange cut, but sufficient midrange to realize it’s in the bridge position!Full midrange-bass, and low end bass
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Country (tele-bright styled leads), Blues (bridge position for blues?)
Model of guitar or bass:
Custom Big Apple Strat
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Specifically chosen for this guitar
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan JB Trembucker
Artists using this pickup:
Noone else that I know.
You musical style(s):
Metal & Blues
Reason for pickup change:
I chose the Stag-Mag (SM) because I was looking for the ultimate splittable Neck humbucker. The following were found: Rio Grande double tallboy (interesting except for the annoying tall structure). The Dually Hot-Gold is close to the Stag-Mag but you must NOW chose between 2×13.2k or 2×6k. At roughly 2×8K the Stag-Mag is perfect for the bridge or with some height adjustments great for the neck.
Pickup features:
2 singles coils in-series (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
16.2K or around 8K per coil
Perceived output level:
One coil sounds very bluesy (lot’s of quack), fairly hot (like a Fender Tex Special). noiseless. Great for a searing Blues tone whether it be at the bridge or at the neck.
Tone:
I guess it’s bright because it’s not muddy but it’s NOT snappy like a vintage single coil (more like the Duncan Alnico II Single coil then the SSL-1). This is what I like about it – since I’m coming from the humbucker side of the equation the non-snappyness is great to my ears.
Sonic evaluation:
Mostly Fat Strats through a JCM 600 with a THD Hotplate (2 x greenbacks). The JCM 600 is like a JTM without the tube rectifer, with a Master volume and more gain.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
For deep Blues to power Blues the SM delivers.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson SG
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan JB
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan JB
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Hard rock, rock, funk
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted a single coil sound in the neck position
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
normal output
Tone:
This pickup sounds very clean in the humbucker mode but has no sustain. When split, the Stag-Mag sounds sharper and thinner than the cleanest single coil I’ ve ever heard. It’s like an out-of-phase sound and it’s very compressed.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Hiwatt 100 w tube amp, a Marshall cabinet with greenbacks, a Yamaha FX 500 effect processor and Boss compressor + noise gate.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is useless for the heavier music styles
Model of guitar or bass:
Carvin Bolt (kit)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Carvin AP-11 SC
Other pickups on guitar:
SD QuarterPound and Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Blues with some jazz, classic rock, and rockabilly
Reason for pickup change:
Building a new guitar
Pickup features:
4 conductor passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
See SD web site for details
Perceived output level:
low-medium output humbucker
Tone:
Very bright for a humbucker
Sonic evaluation:
This pickup is one of the brightest sounding humbuckers I’ve heard. The inherent brightness of the Carvin Bolt brings this out even more. It retains a lot of the character of a Strat single coil in a humbucker. When split, it sounds very much like a standard Strat pickup, although some may find it a bit on the thin side.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It’s a good match for someone who wants Strat like sounds in a humbucker package. If you want more common humbucker tones, you probably want to look elsewhere.
Model of guitar or bass:
Installed in an Ibanez JS1000
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio FRED (stock p/u on the JS series guitars)
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio PAF Pro in the neck position
Artists using this pickup:
This particular pickup….me, I dont lend my guitar to anyone!
You musical style(s):
I listen to mostly rock and metal, I play (poorly) Joe Sat / Dream Theatre style stuff, some thrash metal but mostly progressive rock
Reason for pickup change:
I could not pull the harmonics I wanted from the stock P/U. The Dimarzio FRED makes some cool tones, and is useful for lots of styles, but it simply didnt have the output or the clarity I wanted.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I actually have a degree in electrical engineering, and after 15 year playing guitar, I cant possibly imagine that the average guitarist is considering impedance when buying a pickup. Unless you build custom guitars from scratch, this info is kinda useless for most of us
Perceived output level:
Way hotter than the FRED pickup it replaced, not as driving as an X2N. Decent harmonics, great tone
Tone:
Lots of highs and mids, the bass is really clean but not over powering
Sonic evaluation:
Ibanez JS1000 with the action set way low. I plug in to a Mesa Engineering Solo50 head. From the head, I feed a dry line directly to a Mesa 4×12 black shadow cabinet. I take the slave output to a DOD 31 band EQ, that feeds a Digitech ValveFX, then into an ART SGE, finally into a Mosvalve 80Watt power amp which powers the wet line to another Mesa 4×12. So basically, full Mesa Boogie stack, half with effects, half without.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I am only using it in the bridge, so I have no idea where else it might work. Its a cool pickup for rock, havent done a lot of blues on it but with a tone knob you can pull it off no prob
Model of guitar or bass:
Installed in an Ibanez JS1000
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio FRED (stock p/u on the JS series guitars)
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio PAF Pro in the neck position
Artists using this pickup:
This particular pickup….me, I dont lend my guitar to anyone!
You musical style(s):
I listen to mostly rock and metal, I play (poorly) Joe Sat / Dream Theatre style stuff, some thrash metal but mostly progressive rock
Reason for pickup change:
I paid a lot of money for my JS1000, more than any other guitar I’ve owned. I was playing the intro to “Hot for teacher” last month and the tapped notes sounded like ass. I ran through some harmonics and decided it was time to finally butcher my pristine stock guitar. The FRED pickup it came with is fine for a lot of styles, and the tone was great for blues and low gain classic rock, but for metal and solos it kinda sucks
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I actually have a degree in electrical engineering, and after 15 year playing guitar, I cant possibly imagine what the average guitarist is considering impedance when buying a pickup. Unless you build custom guitars from scratch, this info is kinda useless for most of us
Perceived output level:
Way hotter than the FRED pickup it replaced, not as driving as an X2N. Decent harmonics, great tone
Tone:
Lots of highs and mids, the bass is really clean but not over powering
Sonic evaluation:
I am playing through a 5 year old Ibanez JS1000, stock except for the new pickup. Power is coming from a Mesa Engineering Solo 50 head. I run a dry line to a Mesa Boogie 4×12, and take the slave output to an effects rack (Digitech Valve FX and ART SGE) and power the wet signal with a Mosvalve 80×2 power amp…that feeds another Mesa Boogie 4×12. All disortion is the Mesa head, no dist from the FX. The sounds is completely kick ass. The old pickup sounded great, except when I wanted high gain and harmonics. I cranked the presence, treble, and gain on my head and still couldnt pull decent harmonics from that damn thing. The Demon pickup seemed to do the trick. I can get any sound out of it I have tried. (first test was Hot for teacher, it kicked ass) – for my clean sound I am sticking with the neck pickup, the Demon is kinda tinny on clean channel. I guess its ok for some stuff, but without a lot of effects, I didnt like it for accoustic rythms
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I am only using it in the bridge, so I have no idea where else it might work. Its a cool pickup for rock, havent done a lot of blues on it but with a tone knob you can pull it off no prob
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez rg470
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
v8 (stock)
Other pickups on guitar:
v7 neck, s1 middle
Artists using this pickup:
Lynch
You musical style(s):
Hard rock, Metal, Bach with disortion…
Reason for pickup change:
I needed inspiration! V8 is a good pickup and very good for my styles of playing, but damn… I just got bored playing with it, can`t say why.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Much more lower than the stock pickup. I even had to lower the neck pickup…
Tone:
Crispy… it isn`t a metal tone, but suitable for it also. Hard to describe, but let`s say that it is very alive, like your had a soul…
Sonic evaluation:
I use Korg Ax1000g. Sounds great!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good for Hard Rock, Perfect for disorted classical… Good all around pickup!
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG270
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan’s Vintage Rails (Middle), Duncan’s Full Shred (Neck)
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch
You musical style(s):
Blues and Rock Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
trying the george lynch musical style
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
10K
Perceived output level:
balanced and perfect…..wowwww!!
Tone:
Crunchy with plenty of highs and presence without being harsh (duncan’s word), its true!!.
Sonic evaluation:
i wired my pickup combinations to get different sounds by using 5 way 4 pole pickup switch. pos 1: both coil(Screamin Demon) in series, pos 2: first coil(screamin demon) with vintage rails(M)in parallel(strats sound), pos 3: first coil(screamin demon) with second coil(full shred)in parallel(teles sound), pos 4: vintage rails(M)with first coil(full shred)in parallel and pos 5: both coil(full shred)in series, all combinations are hum-cancelling. i tried this pickup through peavey amps with built-in distortion/overdrive, the sounds was great with distortion/clean, veryyyy sweet harmonics.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
greats for my music styles and gets everything with this pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson KE-2
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan JB
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan SH-2 Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
Uh hum…George Ly…do I have to say it.
You musical style(s):
METAL
Reason for pickup change:
The JB had no character.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucking. A row of allen screws and a row of flathead screws.
Impedence or other specs:
Check out the www.semourduncan.com for their tone chart
Perceived output level:
Slightly less than the JB, slightly more than ‘59 model
Tone:
One word! CRUNCHY
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Mesa Mark III amp with a Recto-cab and my Jackson KE-2. But I beleive this pickup has it’s own characteristics that are recognizable in any combination. I’ve played a Peavey XXX amp (also modeled for George Lynch) and I noticed that the amp’s voicing is somewhat similar to characteristics of the Screamin’ Demon…Lots of tight low end, scooped mids, very crunchy and it has that little SPIKE of a high end frequency that sticks out like a sore thumb (it’s not a bad thing, but that’s what makes the George Lynch sound recognizable). That SPIKE kind of gives the pickup a sort-of single-coil flavor. But the Screamin’ Demon is still a mean pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mostly metal. Lots of open chords and chuggin rhythms, and shredding leads.
Model of guitar or bass:
1976 Ibanez Destroyer
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Custom Custom
Other pickups on guitar:
Super 70
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Bluesy, somewhat Funky Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
10K or so
Perceived output level:
Moderate-to slightly hot
Tone:
Bright, but no piercing. Fair amount of bass. Little Mids at all.
Sonic evaluation:
’70s Destroyer, Ibanez Metal Screamer, LM6100 Marshall 4×12 with G12-80s, Intellifex and Boss Parametric(very mild boost at 220 and 2800 hz) in F/X Loop. Significantly Brighter than Custom Custom. More bass; very little Mids. Lots of definition, which is what I was after. The Custom Custom gets a little too soft in high gain for fast (shreddy) runs. Bright, but I think the ‘Q” of the treble is a little lower than most ‘Rock” pickups (Super Distortion or Duncan Dist.) I say this because the pinched harmonics happen in different places on this guitar than they did when it was loaded with Duncan Custom, JB or Custom Custom. Takes a little getting used to. Harmonics are there, but in unexpected places. Nice though, and good definition.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Basic good Rock or Metal pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG-320
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
metal/punk
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
i dont think so
Perceived output level:
Tone:
not a deep bassy tone, yet carries the low end nicely. very trebly but not annoyingly fuzzy. doesnt effectively pickup the extremely bluesy midrange very well. really good palm muting crunch. it seems to have a slite muddy sound but its nothing to worry about.
Sonic evaluation:
run my ibanez into a crybaby wah and then into a boss metalzone and then into a 100watt marshall valvestate. sometimes ill use a delay pedal too.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play metal/punk styles. this pickup really suits this style and really sounds good clean, but dont expect really warm bluesy lead tones. i installed two of these pickups in the bridge and neck possition and i play them simultaneously, but this pickup is mostly suitable for the bridge possition
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez rg 550
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
Goerge Lynch
You musical style(s):
Death Metal, Shred, grindcore
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups lacked definition, especially with power cords
wile using distortion
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
F-spaced
Perceived output level:
pretty hot
Tone:
trebly, with lots of grind in the low end
Sonic evaluation:
ME-30,powered speaker cabs, ART power plant rackmount preamp.
The pickup wasn’t well defined enough, and gave me more pick noise
than tone. Sounded good with leads an had lots of sustain and harmonics.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good for rock and metal.Good overdrive sound for blues tones.
Model of guitar or bass:
older ibanez JS model (don’t know what they called them before he got his name all over everything)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
alternating between this and several others
Other pickups on guitar:
dimarzio stock single coils
Artists using this pickup:
uh, george lynch
You musical style(s):
anything i can make sound good
Reason for pickup change:
i used this pickup previously for about six months and decided that i hated it initially so i removed it. i went to a dimarzio tonezone for another six months or so and decided that i had enough of it as well. i made a previous submission about this pickup and decided that it wasn’t as bad as i had originally thought. it appears to have very nice “live” qualities that make it a suitable pickup for playing most driven rock sounds and even the ocassional power ballad. its got punch (not as much as the tone zone) and more importantly “feel” it is what you might call a more musical pickup vs. the powerhouse tonezone. in short, it doesn’t “blow” as i had stated in my previous submission. my initial concern was with it’s recording capabilities, of which it has a limited amount. it seems kinda muddy in the mix and was still not worth what i payed for it. one plus this pickup has is it’s ability to articulate notes and sustain. in my honest opinion dimarzio tends to record better.
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
if you have time to read this, go to the SD website
Perceived output level:
some people say this pickup is over the top hot ( one guy in a recent submission went NUTZ over it ) WRONG!!!!
Tone:
Scooped mids, tends to make it muddy in softer wood instruments
Sonic evaluation:
well, the reason i decided to make a second submission was that i was jamming with a buddy last night and played this thing through his peavy 2*12 100 watt combo and became really impressed with the sound of this pickup, it really rocks and it’s got soul. the problem is that it’s good at making only one type of sound, it sounds great when it’s driven ( kinda wish it had more balls like the dimarzio ) but backed off it gets kinda brittle, seems like it’s got no in between. sounds great clean though, just needs more power. it seems to work pretty good mixed with the single coils too. this thing was made with heavy reverb, delay, and chorus in mind also. keep on mind george lynch!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
a crunchy lead/rhythm bridge pickup for sure. unlike dimarzio, you can’t get away with everything with this pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson PS4 Japan
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Jackson stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio PAF pro neck
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch
You musical style(s):
Neoclassical, Shred
Reason for pickup change:
More Power
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hyper Mega Ultra Turbo HOT
Tone:
very balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Guitar—RP7—VS100R
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Yeah, good sound
Model of guitar or bass:
Modified Ibanez 365 (2 of ‘em)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock “Powersound” humbucker.
Other pickups on guitar:
DiMarzio “Chopper” neck position.
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch (among others)
You musical style(s):
Rock/Metal/Blues
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pickup was TOO hot – Nothing but mud & distortion.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Go Look it up…
Perceived output level:
The output level of this pickup is perfect. Not too hot & not too weak. This is a medium output pickup; slightly hotter than a Gibson PAF.
Tone:
Very well balanced – slight roll-off on the high end.
Sonic evaluation:
Customized Ibanez 365 (basswood body) through Marshall JCM 900 (4100) head, 4×12 A-cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is perfect for the style of music I play; best suited for bridge position.
Great. Unlike other reviewers on here, I cannot tell any different in overall volume with the effect engaged. It is a very transparent effect, by which I mean it adds a tremolo effect, but does not change the tone or volume in any other way at all. It seems to be pretty quiet, and does not generate any adverse hum. Hmmmmmm.
All effects pedals benefit from a level setting, but seeing as the level setting is only there to allow you to ensure the overal volume is the same with the effect on and off, and this pedal does not seem to affect the overall volume, this is not really necessary.
Model of guitar or bass:
MIM Standard Telecaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock MIM
Other pickups on guitar:
Fralin-wound Fender NoCaster
Artists using this pickup:
No clue
You musical style(s):
Blues, country-rock, old-school cowpunk
Reason for pickup change:
‘Cause I’m like that, always fiddling around trying to make a guitar sound better.
Pickup features:
Passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Definitely hotter than stock, not to a ridiculous degree, though.
Tone:
Much more mids than stock, but still with the icepick highs. Not as much bass as I had expected from having Texas specials in my SRV Strat.
Sonic evaluation:
MIM Standard Tele through a ‘69 Vibrolux Reverb, sometimes through a Fender G-Dec when I want to mess around with midi backing tracks. While this pickup isn’t my idea of what a Telecaster sounds like, there are some pretty cool sounds to be had. It can sound shrill and midrange-y at times but I’ve gotten some pretty cool sounds that I hadn’t gotten on other Teles with other pickups. If you’re looking for a classic Tele sound, though, I would look elsewhere. On a good note, this pickup seems more sensitive to tweaking with height adjustment and the tone knob than others I have had so it’s worth fiddling with it to try to find the sweet spot. When I am setting pickup height on a Tele, I generally use a nickel as a spacer between the the bridge pickup and the strings for starters, I backed the TS off about a half-turn on both sides (farther from the strings) and it sounded alot better than when I first installed it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Not great for straight country pickin’, sounds better with some gain. Mine sounds better through a TS-9 than clean.
Model of guitar or bass:
American Series Tele Ash Body
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Both
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
To try to cure what I thought was a dull sound with no defintion.
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hotter than standards nothing extreme though.
Tone:
Clear with superb definition and thats both pickups.Has transformed my tele!
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Tele through Spider 1 50w using mainly clean channel.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
All styles.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Series Telecaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stocl
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, blues, country
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pickups just didn’t have that Tele sound; the bridge was sharply piercing and trebly. The neck, while smooth sounding, seemed underpowered.
Pickup features:
passive
Impedence or other specs:
Bridge: DC resistance 10.5k, inductance 3.95 H Neck: resistance 9.5K, inductance 3.3H
Perceived output level:
Hotter than stock, that’s for sure, but if you’re expecting night-and-day output differences between these and stock, you’ll be disappointed. It’s just “more” tone.
Tone:
More midrange in the bridge, for sure. Very balanced. Still twangs like no tomorrow, but you can take the icepick out of your eardrums now. The neck has always been my favorite position, and this one is great. In a word, rich.
Sonic evaluation:
I play this direct trhough my stand-alone digital recording geck, or amplify it through a Gibson GA 5 Goldtone Les Paul Junior (5 watts, AX7 preamp EL86 power tube, 8″ speaker, class A). Again, this wasn’t a shocking revelation — these pickups just make my guitar sound more like a clasic Telecaster. They’re a little hotter, have more mids, and are very balanced between the two. Here’s the coolest thing: Now I can actually use the middle position of my guitar! Amazing!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
The Tele is the world’s most versatile guitar, IMHO. These pickups finally let it express the vast range the guitar inherently possesses.
Model of guitar or bass:
Squier Affinity Tele
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock MIC
Other pickups on guitar:
Original Bridge moved to middle
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, Classic Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Sterile OEM pups, no warmth. Also origial pups very microphonic. If you don’t know what I mean tap on one plugged in on the Affinity and compare to a USA Tele. Hear the “tick – tick – tick” Equate that to unmusical feedback (not ala-Hendrix, ala-mic squeal). Beware!
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Much higer output than standard Tele pups. Lots of midrange. Not so brittle as the ceramic singles the Affinity came with.
Tone:
Middy tone, but gives a good cruch in bridge position. Neck is a little too hot to get that smooth tele neck sound of a vintage. It is as advertized, hot.
Sonic evaluation:
Play through a Fender Blues Jr. or a Fender Musicmaster 50 head / Celestion 12″ in an open cabinet. The original pickups were replaced w/ the Texas Specials. The body and pickguard were routed out and the old bridge installed in the middle position. A 5-way strat switch and push-pull pot were installed to control for 7 possible sounds. Original in middle cleaned up some, but still very hot. Inbetween positions give strat like tones. All 3 on is very cool- kind of strat like, with a little more bottom than strat inbetween. Combos w/ neck cancel hum very well. Copper shielding in cavities helps some, too.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is a good rock or blues setup. Lots of sonic possibilities. Output of these match the original very well.
Model of guitar or bass:
G&L ASAT Classic w/Ash body and Maple neck
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
G&L MFD Ceramic Single Coil ASAT Classic Pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
all positions replaced
Artists using this pickup:
Not sure
You musical style(s):
Rock, blues, jazz and country
Reason for pickup change:
The G&Ls were fine, but as with most G&L MFD pickups, they were a bit too punchy but at the same time sterile. Many like this because they can use their eq on their amp to get different sounds, but I wanted a more traditional tele sound, and missed having a neck pickup with the nickle cover. I also wanted more of a broadcaster tone from this guitar.
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
14.? bridge; 9.? neck
Perceived output level:
The G&Ls were pretty loud pickups as both bridge and neck have a copper bass plate on the bottom, but these Texas Specials are hot too. No problem getting volume from these dudes! Much higher than standard alnico tele pickups
Tone:
Despite their hot warning lable, as well as their high volume, these are clear and balanced. Not like the Texas Special strat pickups. These are a totally different animal. My guitar teacher commented on how nice they sound. Very hot, but they still retain nice balance
Sonic evaluation:
Using an ash bodied G&L ASAT Classic that is very light with an all maple neck. This guitar really came to life. I like the MFDs, but not as much as I like these pickups. This is what a tele is supposed to sound like as far as I’m concerned. I’ve seen early reviews commenting on how these won’t twang and I strongly disagree. While they don’t have the brittle highs of say the classic 54 tele or other early vintage tele pickups, I get all the twang I want with the added versatility of using this guitar for classic rock and roll, blues and now jazz with the beefier neck pickup. I have a Rivera Fandango and a Pro Jr. with a Weber Alnico speaker, and this guitar sounds great through both. I had a Fender Twin this excelled through too. This even sounds good through my guitar teacher’s roland cube amp, which he absolutely despises unless this guitar is plugged into it. I will say, this is definitely not a quiet and subtle pickup. at a DC resistance of over 14 in the bridge, don’t expect to sound just like Buck Owens. Think of these pickups as James Burton’s guitar and Keith Richards guitar put in a blender and combined. Not that you can’t do Buck Owens, but you sure as hell can do a whole lot more with these pickups. Hot, clear, punchy and ballsy all in one set of pickups! Wow!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
rock blues country and jazz
Model of guitar or bass:
97 Nashville Telecaster (Mexican)
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Tex-Mex Strat
Artists using this pickup:
*shrug*
You musical style(s):
Cow-Punk, Alt-Country
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Pup’s in the Nashville were okay, but not quite twangy enough for me. I wanted something with a more “classic” telecaster sound.
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
It’s in other posts
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
True Telecaster sound… Twangy in all the right places..
Sonic evaluation:
I use a 78 Twin and the stocks were okay, but the old Pups sounded a little to cheap. The problem with installing the Texas Teles on a Nashville (3 Pup model) is that the installation directions included are for a 5 way switch on a tele with only 2 Pups (for both serial and parallel setups). With 3 Pups, you have to do a little bit of wiring assumptions. However, once installed these pickups kick 10 kinds of @$$. The body in this tele is alder, though not the greatest, gives a nice tone and sustain. There is a poly finish on it which is the same finish for Custom Shop guitars as well as the Custom Shop Pups.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Country, Alt-Country, Cow Punk
Model of guitar or bass:
nashville tele
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock mex
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
blues rock
Reason for pickup change:
stock pickups thin and harsh sounding
Pickup features:
single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
slightly more than stock
Tone:
smooth balanced nice mids
Sonic evaluation:
mex nashville tele thru a peavy classic 50 4/10s
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play rock and blues. These pick ups sound great for this. Very vintage sound
Model of guitar or bass:
G&L ASAT Tele
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Original G$L ceramic
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know
You musical style(s):
Blues, Country, Rock, Reggae…etc
Reason for pickup change:
Original bridge pickup died. Not available as replacements anymore so decided to go for a balanced replacement set.
Pickup features:
passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Less than G&L ceramics
Tone:
Stronge mid range focus, yet balanced.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m playing through a Line6 FlextoneII XL. The lower output(compared to the original ceramics) actually suits me better, giving a far more traditional sound. The neck is definitely fat, yet somehow, it still retains enough tops to make it sound completely tele like – great for blues. The middle position (which I’ve wired in parallel – the series wiring was not to my taste enough to keep it…perhaps I’ll get a 4 position switch eventually) has a slight out of phase like trebliness to it. It sounds kind of like a 60’s tele – very authentic and perfect for those bright Danny Gatton middle position tones. The bridge is where this set really shines though… They apparently modelled this on an old broadcaster bridge pickup and it shows! Very tough, fat and middly yet once again with enough treble to prevent it from becoming muddy. With the tone control wide open it’s very Roy Buchanan, yet roll the tone back with some judicious overdrive and you’ve got a fat humbucker-like tone that just loves to sing when the amp is cranked.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
see above….it’s a tele – it can do almost any style!
Model of guitar or bass:
mexican telecaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
seymour duncan quarter punder
Other pickups on guitar:
stock fender
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
indie/ alternative
Reason for pickup change:
The 1/4 pounder was a good pickup especially for driving a tube amp at lower volumes but it was too muddy when using clean tones.
Pickup features:
single coil – a little bit hotter than normal
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
a little more than stock but not nearly as much as the quarter punder I had
Tone:
not as sharp as most vintage or standard tele pick ups but it still has a high end twang but not so much that it is harsh. I really like it, its in between the sd 1/4 pounder and a stock tele. It sounds nice and sharp clean but also distorts nice and fat like, not thin at all. Good clean and distorted tone. Its not for metal or anything where you would want to turn your tele into a gibson cross breed, it just kind of pushes you tele a little bit harder.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using this with a 60’s silvertone and a ross distortion pedal. I really like it. Like I’ve already said I liked my old duncan but it just couldn’t cut it when using any clean tones. This pick up doesn’t distort as much as the duncan but it does more than stock fender and it still retains nice bright (not too bright) cleans- not muddy at all.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I’d say this is good for any kind of music using clean to moderatly distored tones.
Model of guitar or bass:
2001 Squire Telecaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Squire Neck Pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender Vintage Noisless Bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Dont Know
You musical style(s):
Texas Blues, Country Blues,Rockabilly
Reason for pickup change:
Stock Squire neck pup was not bad, justt not great.
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Not measured, Dont know
Perceived output level:
Much hotter than stock, but stock pups were weak.
Tone:
Smooth, Warm, Mids and up
Sonic evaluation:
Playing through a Vox Cambridge 15, and a Marshall 65 watt Valvestate Combo
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great match for the Blues… and Jazzy type tones
Model of guitar or bass:
‘69 Tele Thinline Reissue-Japan
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
sotck
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
rock ‘n roll, funk, c&w, blues
Reason for pickup change:
higher output
Pickup features:
passive single-coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
dramatic increase in output compared to the stock Fender pickups
Tone:
deeper bass, higher highs, all around warmth
Sonic evaluation:
fender and peavey tube amps… the “Texas Special” name sucks because it gives the impression that you will be an SRV clone with these pickups… They should be renamed “Vintage Specials” or something like that. I’ve got another Telecaster with awesome Seymour Duncan Vintage Broadcaster pickups in it, and this is about the closest I can compare this high-end fender pickup to. It will totally improve your Telecaster and convince you to discard the stock Fender pickups.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Teles, tube amps, with a pedal or 2 in between… Old 1970’s analog stuff, really-and this pickup id suitable for all positions
Model of guitar or bass:
1999 G&L ASAT Classic Thinline
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock MF Pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
Couldn’t tell you, don’t care.
You musical style(s):
Dino Rock and British Blues
Reason for pickup change:
I just don’t like the overall response I get from ceramic magnets even though the stock pickups are really good.
Pickup features:
Individually, single coil; on together, humbucking.
Impedence or other specs:
Bridge: 10.3K ohms; Neck: 8.65K ohms
Perceived output level:
Slightly more than a standard output humbucker
Tone:
Exceptionally balanced
Sonic evaluation:
1968 Fender Quad Reverb. No effects.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
See above for style. Pickups are a phenominal match. These pickups cover all styles except, believe it or not, Country.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Telecaster (Mexican)
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Mexican Telecaster pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
I have no idea
You musical style(s):
I hate labelling, but, here goes: spacey, ambient, folky, sometimes countrified rock and roll.
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Tele pickups are pretty weak.
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coils
Impedence or other specs:
I don’t know
Perceived output level:
The Texas Specials are noticably hotter than the stock pickups that were in it.
Tone:
I would say that the tone is fairly balanced, with a little more emphasis on the bass and mids.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using these on a 2001 Mexican-made Fender Telecaster. I play it through a solid-state Fender combo (1X12). These pickups have really made my Tele like a whole new guitar to me. The stock pickups were just not cutting the mustard for me. They sounded weak and hollow. The Texas Specials are definitely hotter, warmer, and much more balanced.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Didn’t I already answer this question? See above for my musical style(s). Yes, this is a great match, providing much more sustain for me to work with when using all my effects and gadgets. There are no unsuitable pick-up positions, they all have their uses.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Telecaster (Upgrade)
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Mexican Standard Pick-ups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The standard pick-ups were actually very nice, just wanted something with a little more warmth.
Pickup features:
Single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Both measured over 10 ohms on my meter
Perceived output level:
hotter than stock
Tone:
warmer than stock tele pickups, delivers a bit more beef to the front of my amp
Sonic evaluation:
These pick-ups are the only modification I’ve made to a lovely new Mexican-made Tele I’ve fallen in love with (I’ll call her Maria Elena). That’s right, pal, you heard me right. She’s Mexican…you got a problem with that? I love her anyway. No matter what you think. I use several different Fender amps: ‘75 Silverface Twin Reverb, Custom Vibrolux Reverb, Tweed Blues Deville 2×12, ‘65 Deluxe Reverb RI
and these pickups really help to smooth out the harsher tele qualities, ie, piercingly bright. My tele doesn’t twang, it sounds more like a Les Paul, very warm and syrupy, but with more swagger There was a moment on stage the other night when I was cranking away during a solo and I heard the same kind of tone that guy from the Pretenders got in “Middle of the Road.” That kinda cracked me up. But I enjoyed it. It just sounded so skanky; a tele, sure, but more angry.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a psychedelic mix of rock/country/folk and pop.
Model of guitar or bass:
California Telecaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock pickups (Tex-Mex Strat neck, Tex-Mex Tele bridge)
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
dunno–don’t care
You musical style(s):
Blues, some funk and rock.
Reason for pickup change:
I swapped out the Tex-Mexes in my California Tele, not because they sucked, but because I had a Strat that already got some of that “flavor”–I wanted something a little more edgy and a little more bite.
Pickup features:
Single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Approx. 8.2 ohms for neck, 8.4 for bridge.
Perceived output level:
Pretty hot for single coils. The neck pickup is smoother than the bridge, as should be expected. I have them wired in series, so the middle position sounds like it’s on fire. Big-time midrange honk. Great for phat leads.
Tone:
Lots of midrange… as I said, the middle (in-series) position (the recommended configuration) is really thick. The bridge PU can get pretty bright with the vol up and the tone wide open.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Fender HotRod DeVille 410 + wah and BOSS Blues Driver. When playing this guitar I have gone to a style where I simply turn the amp and BD-2 up, and use the tone and volume knobs on the guitar to control distortion. Rolling off the volume a bit on the neck pu yeilds a nice warm rhythm tone. Up all the way on that pickup gets a very SRV-ish clang, although not quite as dark–maple fretboard you see. If I want a funk rhythm “scratch” tone, I roll off the volume and tone just a bit and switch to the neck. For a bluesy lead tone, I open it up all the way and switch to the middle.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Again, I play blues funk and rock. These pickups are good for hot blues. If you’re trying to do melodic R&B styles (e.g. Curtis Mayfield or “soft” Hendrix) it’s a little too hot for that–and when you roll off volume the p/us can get a little too muddy.
Model of guitar or bass:
‘83 American Standard Telecaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock neck pickup??? Not sure, bought the guitar used
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock bridge pickup. Not sure.
Artists using this pickup:
N/A
You musical style(s):
Blues Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Heard great reviews of this pickup…
The original p/u was okay, but seriously lacked any bass response and overall punch.
Pickup features:
Single Coil Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Read the other reviews for specs
Perceived output level:
Hotter than the stock neck, WAAAYYY hotter than the bridge…
Tone:
Lots of bass and mids, could use a bit more in the treble department.
Sonic evaluation:
‘83 Tele through an Ibanez TS-10 Tube Screamer to a Fender Blues Jr. With the original p/u, I had griped about the lack of bass response, and the MUDDINESS (all caps on purpose!!!). The Texas Special helped negate most of those gripes. The bass response is a lot better without being over-the-top, and the high mids make it smoother than a baby’s behind. It could use a little more high-end and bite, but that’s what the tone controls are for on my amp.
When I step on the TS-10, the distortion just sounds a lot cleaner than before. It’s still a little muddy, but I’ll have to play around with it a bit more to see if it’s the amp or the pickup. One thing I really like is the low “growl” you get when you play hard. Kind of like “Strat”ty sounding if I may be so bold. Not exactly the classic Tele sound, but suits my music fine.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Telecaster Thinline ‘69 Reissue
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Reissue Tele, neck and bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
On this guitar, me? Otherwise, TX specials were designed for the SRV signature strat
You musical style(s):
Blues
Reason for pickup change:
I also play a Clapton sig. strat and the active circuitry coupled to the Lace Sensors produces a very high output. I wanted to bring the output of the Thinline closer to this, for ease of live situations where I wanted the minimum of knob-twiddling as I changed over guitars. I also wanted to make use of the neck pick-up more, which on the original was too low an output, and of little character.
Pickup features:
Single coil, overwound neck, staggered (high D) neck
Impedence or other specs:
Designed to replace vintage single coils on a Telecaster
Perceived output level:
Neck: Greater than the vintage pick-ups, probably twice so? Bridge: roughly the same as the vintage, but I wired them in parralel so the difference in output is less obvious.
Tone:
Neck: Aha! Real tone here we come. This overwound pick-up really works. For those tele players who never use the neck PU on its own, now’s the time to think again! The other Tele-player in the band (a real Tele officianado) immediately said this PU s
Sonic evaluation:
As before, I have loaded the TX specials into a ‘69 Reissue Thinline. At the same time I junked the poxy switch and tone pots as supplied and replaced them with Ernie Ball equivalents, although this did mean redrilling the scratch plate to increase the diameter of the holes. Why oh why do Fender allow such good quality guitars (and I really mean that, the workmanship is exemplory) to be fitted with such cheap, crappy electronics, when for ?15 you can replace the lot with decent ones? It really does make all the difference, I kid you not. This then goes directly into a Peavey Classic 2×12.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play Blues, from belting boogie to low down 30’s style, sometimes with shades of Jazz, and sometimes with shades of rock. Good old Pub Music. Between the Clapton Strat and the Thinline I have all bases covered for this type of music.
Model of guitar or bass:
Custom made Telecaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
New instrument
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
You name it……….
Reason for pickup change:
It’s my first custom instrument
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Slightly hotter than standard
Tone:
Bridge: twangy with real punch. Neck: Clear, bell like, and with tone turned down, very jazzy
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Rivera 55/12 and these pickups play country, rock, and blues with equal ease…..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
You call it……
Model of guitar or bass:
‘78 Fender tele w/ parsons/white b-bender
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock seventies Fender tele
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Country, Blues, Rock….
Reason for pickup change:
Original pickups had lost their oomph….
Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Better overall level due to higher output impedence. I found the Bridge pickup to be microphonic, so I potted them in parafin. The problem went away nicely then.
Tone:
Crisp and clear. Bridge pickup does that twang thang really well. The neck pickup is very “Stratty” sounding.
Sonic evaluation:
I run thru a 2 amp set up, a Matchless DC-30 and an old Sound City 50 plus. These pickups are very country sounding (partly because the guitar they are in is very dense)
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Thes pickups seem to be the perfect match for most things that you would do with a tele. I don’t see them as a great sound for metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
American Standard Tele
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock tele
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Country, Blues, Classic Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock Tele pickups lack that extra push, especially the neck PU
Pickup features:
single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Quite a bit more that stock
Tone:
Depends on how you wire the neck PU: Series — Neck PU more bassy, Parallel more glassy
Sonic evaluation:
Very clear and crisp, even with the series wiring, which is the diagram provided by Fender; however, you should be aware that this is quite a bit different from the way a stock tele is wired from the factory. Therefore, if you are not comfortable with almost rewiring the entire guitar, then I would let someone else do it. You can also wire it in Parallel, which would amount to grounding both of the ground wires together. In series wiring the middle position (both pus on) gives you a higher output, and far more mids and basses from the Neck pu. In parallel, the output is the same in all positions, and the mids and basses are cut. This makes the pu more versatile in terms of what you can get in terms of the sound, but rewiring is not for everyone. But overall both ways sound good.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Heavy Metal
Model of guitar or bass:
‘95 American Standard Telecaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
American Standard (stock)
Other pickups on guitar:
n/a
Artists using this pickup:
Nobody *I* know… 
You musical style(s):
Rock, blues, a little country
Reason for pickup change:
The standard Tele pickups, while nice in their own right,
seemed to be missing a little something. I also wanted
higher output to push my amp a little harder.
Pickup features:
Single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Higher than standard impedance (value unknown)
Perceived output level:
Noticeably higher, but not drastic.
Tone:
Fairly middy, well-balanced.
Sonic evaluation:
They do what they do VERY well. They provide the higher output, and
the tone is thicker than the standard pickups. With the TS’s, it’s
possible to get a stronger “twang” without going ballistic on the
high end. Could use a little more high end, but not much.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
A Tele for metal? Yes, it’s possible. Might not have the high-end twang that country die-hards might want. Wonderful for blues.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Deluxe Strat Plus (Swamp Ash Body)
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Blue and Silver Lace Sensor
Other pickups on guitar:
Van Zandt TruBucker (bridge)
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, Classic Rock, Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more Tone.
Pickup features:
Passive Vintage Style Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
This is a Vintage Style pickup, it is not very hot.
Tone:
This pickup is very Trebly, its got da bite!
Sonic evaluation:
This pickup is very cool if yer looking for Vintage tones. I have it in my bridge and middle positions and I love it. The only complaint I have is that I think I underestimated the tonality of a vintage pickup. This pickup is very bright and glassy, I was not expecting sooo much bite, but I love it just the same.
If you are looking for Vintage tones this is your pickup! The dynamic range is incredible!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is not for hard rockers! It doesn’t have the output
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Gothic V
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Alnico
Other pickups on guitar:
Just put in a Seymour Duncan Jazz in the neck
Artists using this pickup:
Good ol Dave Mustaine
You musical style(s):
Metal mainly Thrash Speed Power Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted a better pickup, the stock was a little too muddy for me.
Pickup features:
Humbucker Passive with pole pieces
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
About the same as a Duncan Distortion Less than an EMG-81
Tone:
Upper midrange crunch with no muddyness what so ever. More highs than bass. Very punchy and articulate. Bright and Clean. Very harmonic.
Sonic evaluation:
In the Epiphone Gothic V into my marshall 8200 head with a 1960 lead cab. The guitar is a screaming metal machine now with the harmonics jumping out just like the EMG-81 like in my other guitars. The output is just right and it works perfectly for me. Its very touch sensitive. Every note will come out and does with clarity and punch. Does great for down picking and alternate picking, solos are great also.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Works for alot of styles but I think at its core its a metal pickup. Best passive Ive played.
Model of guitar or bass:
1982 Dean V Baby
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
DiMarzio X2N
Other pickups on guitar:
none at the moment
Artists using this pickup:
A lot of them
You musical style(s):
Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The X2N seemed to lack bass and dynamics. I wanted something with a little more articulation, a little less compression, and, a lot more bass.
Pickup features:
passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
high impedance
Perceived output level:
This pickup has a medium hot tone. It’s not as hot as an EMG-81 or a DiMarzio X2N. And I don’t think it’s as hot as a DiMarzio super distortion.
Tone:
It has a nice warm tone. It’s also crunchy. But not muddy. It’s balanced sounding. It sounds prettier than the X2N. It also has more warmth than the X2N. The lead tones are rounder but not as loud as the X2N’s. And they don’t sustain as long. And this is what I miss. The JB isn’t scratchy sounding.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m playing it through a Marshall TSL602 with Wolverine speakers and EL34 power tubes and a 1960A cab with four Celestion G12T-75w speakers. It has a warm crunchy sound. I really like it. It just doesn’t sustain as long as I would like. But this may be the guitar’s fault. But then again the pickup may not be putting enough volts into the front of my amp as I like. I notice it doesn’t sound very good with distortion or overdrive pedals either.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It’s a good match for rock. However on this guitar there isn’t as much sustain as I’d like. The tone seems to die away too soon for my tastes. But this may be the guitar’s fault. As it’s very light weight. It’s a mini V with wood removed around the neck juncture for the rhythm humbucker. On a Les Paul or Explorer these pickups may probably shine. The tone is there. It just doesn’t last as long as I would like. I think I’ll try a DiMarzio super distortion next. If that doesn’t do it I’ll go with an EMG-81. Or put the X2N back in.
Model of guitar or bass:
jackson kv2
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
JB
Artists using this pickup:
myself, satriani’s pickup is based off of this with more mids, can’t think of any good ones
You musical style(s):
metal, jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
medium hot, not as hot as an EMG 81
Tone:
well balanced
Sonic evaluation:
I running my kv2 through a tubescreamer into my marshall dsl w/ reverb.Thats it! This pickup needs to be played with a TUBE amp! I’ve a guitar teacher aswell as a student of the legendary jim robitaille at Dartmouth. The people that had said this pickup was bad are people that haven’t developed an ear for a great guitar tone. the clean tones are glassly and extremely clear. When driven lightly it keeps the same definition and clearity. When overdriven to rock or metal the attack its quick and precise. I will admit its not as hot as an EMG 81 but since this is the most versitle pickup i’ve ever heard it has the EMG 81 beat. Where this pickup shines is in the upper registers. The notes are quick and precise without any extra gain.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
If you don’t play anything but power chords and palm mute the E string go with the EMG 81. If you actually want to be a musician this is your first step. I recommend this in the bridge but still works well in the neck.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Classic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Rio Grande BBQ
Other pickups on guitar:
59
Artists using this pickup:
don’t care as long as I’m happy with it
You musical style(s):
alternative rock
Reason for pickup change:
The Rio BBq just didn’t have that bite I was looking for. It’s got great clarity and definitiion I love the distorted sounds of the Rio but the cleans were subpar and thin. It seems that the BBQ has a scooped mid sound which is a bad thing especially for chords and cutting through the mix with authority…you need them especially for guitar!
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker with Alnico V magnets
Impedence or other specs:
16k
Perceived output level:
medium hot! perfect for my needs!
Tone:
very balance with tight bass…….has a bite fo treble and upper mids …great for harmonics like the others have said but this pickup has presence and can do whatever it’s called upon to do!
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a Laney VH100r and LH50R head with Marshall and crate cab
The JB sounds fantastic with Gibsons! There’s a reason why they are the prefer choice of so many professionals. They are affordable and sound great! My cleans are warm and chimey and not to mention rich sounding as well as the distortion. YOu can’t go wrong with JB. I’ve tried the custom 5, Custom Custom and some other pickups. I just prefer the JB!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is definitely a rock style pickup! But great for cleans…best of both worlds!! hard distorted sounds and sweet cleans!
Model of guitar or bass:
charvette
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock charvel humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
2 dimarzio F7 single coils
Artists using this pickup:
many
You musical style(s):
hard rock and heavy metal
Reason for pickup change:
charvel was microphonic
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16+ k
Perceived output level:
hot and ballsy
Tone:
not too bassy, not too trebly…just right
Sonic evaluation:
charvette, line 6 POD 2.0, marshall MG 50 DMX
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter C1 Classic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
Wow…Micheal Amott, Dave Mustaine, and thats all that matters
You musical style(s):
from ballads to fuckin metal!!
Reason for pickup change:
It was already in the guitar
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16.25, i think?
Perceived output level:
Surprisingly hot, for a versatile pickup
Tone:
Just enough bass to give it chunk, and lotsa highs. Some mids in there too
Sonic evaluation:
Schecter to a Boss MT-2 to a Roland Cube 15. My halfstack tone sux, so I cant say much about loud volumes. This pickup sounds great for cleans and metal! Some might notice that this pickup, when overdriven, has this funny yet good characteristic. It has this ‘greasy’ or ’sticky’ feel to it. It feels so good! I wish my Hot Rails had this feel to it. Pinch harmonics come out nicely and loud, and the thickness of the distortion sure is satisfying thanks to the sticky feel. Chugging and drop tunings are fun and clear with high-gain, and the cleans are pristine, especially with the split-coil. Some say its too trebly or it has a weird mid-spike, but I had nothing but good results with it. Try it out!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
You can do clean/dirty chord progressions, or shred, or extreme metal. Pick one.
Model of guitar or bass:
PRS Custom 22
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan ‘59
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know the specifics
You musical style(s):
Hard rock, metal
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
2+5 Maybe.
Perceived output level:
not the hottest pickup I’ve played, but it’s up hot. Pinch harmonics jump off my guitar..
Tone:
Treble, upper mids.. very trebly!
Sonic evaluation:
My guitar is a mahogany body, maple top; fairly heavy. I run into a Line 6 Spider 2 amplifier.
This pickup is trebly, and it’s not that good sort of trebly. The tone is somewhat scratchy to me.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup’s treble nature steers me wrong. I find it unsuitable for the style of music I play. But I would say it is great for rock’n'roll and jazz.
Model of guitar or bass:
PRS Custom 22
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Custom
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Jazz neck
Artists using this pickup:
Dave Mustaine, Michael Amott (Arch Enemy), Marty Friedman, Michael Angelo Batio, Jeff Beck, Robben Ford
You musical style(s):
Metal, Blues, Jazz, Ska, Raggae
Reason for pickup change:
the Duncan Custom had too much definition and was very hard to control. it was too tight for expressive solo’s. very boring, and lifeless. it was too bassy for my taste.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
D.C. Resistance16.4 k
Perceived output level:
between Medium and Hot
Tone:
Very balanced, a bit trebly and has a very pleasant middy undertone
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a Crate BV-120 stack and a Traynor YCV80 combo. the effects i run my guitar through is a noise suppressor, a wah, a chorus and a reverb (all BOSS). the JB sounds full on leads and solos. it has really good cut, great amount of mids and treble with a fair amount of bass. in solo’s, the harmonics jump out of my guitar. the harmonics are very tight, like that of the EMG 81. the JB has a great amount of crunch that doesnt sound too compressed and buzzy. it has that “awoooaahh” vowel quality to it… almost like a tone zone. i have an Ibanez RG with a Tone Zone in the bridge and compared to the JB, it is a lot more bassy and the harmonics are almost “airy” sounding. the TZ also has a lot more crunch and more modern sounding. the JB is a very versatile pickup, have very decent cleans, unlike the TZ which is very muddy on clean. it also matches VERY WELL with the Jazz in the neck. although the Jazz is wired differently in my PRS, when the tone pot is pushed down, the JB is on humbucker mode and the Jazz is on single coil, and when pushed up, the JB is in single-coil mode and the Jazz is in humbucker mode. the Jazz matches better split with the JB in humbucker mode.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Modern Metal, Jazz, Blues, Classic Rock, Country… almost anything this pickup covers.
Model of guitar or bass:
Edwards SG Custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
JB in middle postion and 59 in neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
N/A
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know
Perceived output level:
Loud
Tone:
Present
Sonic evaluation:
I just got an SG copy, a new Japanese Edwards copy of a Gibson three pickup SG custom. It has two JBs, one in the bridge and one in the middle, and a 59 in the neck. I also have a PRS CE-22, a Dillion LP copy, and a Danelectro DC-59. Playing into a Traynor YCV-40. I bought a filtertron and put it in the bridge of the Dillion but I think I get a better rockabilly sound with the JB clean on the bridge position. So it can definitely do vintage.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Hard rock, vintage rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Flying V
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock, soon to be Duncan Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
A lot of people use this.
You musical style(s):
Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Stock Gibson pickups sound like butt.
Pickup features:
Humbucking bridge pickup.
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hot enough for the heaviest metal, but not to hot for blues, jazz, country.
Tone:
Good low end and tight highs. Not brittle like stock pickups. Awesome mids.
Sonic evaluation:
Peavey 6505+ and matching 4×12. Mostly the lead and crunch channels. This pickup makes a Gibson sound like a Gibson. Its just a perfect match in a mahogany guitar, really makes you cut through well.
On this guitar ive went through a few pickups trying to get the right tone. Dimarzio X2N, Dimarzio SD, the stock 500T. They all were pretty good pickups as far as tone went, but they were all way to hot for modern amps. The high output turns your sound to mush in a high gain amp. The JB is hot enough for metal, but retains clarity and punch.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Big ol’ 600lb gorilla metal. Mastodon meets Neurosis meets Fu Manchu meets Dying Fetus.
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson ds20
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock bridge humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Humbucker from hell
Artists using this pickup:
10,000,000
You musical style(s):
Rock,fuck,jazz,fusion and much more
Reason for pickup change:
the stock humbucker was muddy. had no defenition what so ever and it was a all round piece of crap.
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
t a high output humbucker thats not to hot. around the same as an Evo.
Tone:
it has a fag tone.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a matamp C7 seven, rocktron hush, two delay pedals, morley wah,digitech wammy and a lexicon hybrid preamp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
this humbucker is good for a wide range of styles
Model of guitar or bass:
Wesley Jasper-10
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock unbranded
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Metal; Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup was really crappy.
Since this is an acrylic guitar, it needs a hotter pickup. The shape is very similar to a Steinberger guitar. Also, the aestetics have improved with a nickel covererd pickup.
Pickup features:
Humbucking; passive
Impedence or other specs:
Ressonant peak: 5.5kHz; Imp = 16,4kOhm; Output = hi; B=med, M=lo, T=hi
Perceived output level:
Very high! Very similar to DiMarzio’s Evo 2 bridge.
Tone:
Mid-scoop. Ideal for my guitar. Lots of harmonics!
Sonic evaluation:
Rocktron Chameleon OnLine => Rocktron Intellifex => Behringer Virtualizer PRO => Marshall V-8240
The Chameleon is a great digital preamp, better than 90% of the valve preamps I have tried out. (you may find my presets at www.rocktron.com)
The Intellifex and Virtualizer PRO are just effect processors.
The Marshall is a hybrid combo, featuring one Sovtek 12AX7 in the preamp circuitery and a solid-state power stage. It also has two Celestion G12-T speakres.
I use the Rocktron preamp with the Marshall effect loop return for most of the time. Sometimes I like to use the Marshall’s preamp also.
In either case, the pickup really compensates the “lack of body” of the guitar and gives the extra highs and lows the acrylic body lacks.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
IMHO, this pickup is a very good option for Rockers/Metalheads. I bet it will sound VERY good on a Les Paul.
Model of guitar or bass:
ESP George Lynch Baritone
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
A twin-bladed Single coil size humbucker (unknown, ESP?)
Artists using this pickup:
Michael Amott (Arch Enemy)
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Heavy Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Quite hot, not overly extreme but pushes amp nicely into overdrive
Tone:
A very nice top end, fat midrange, smooth bass
Sonic evaluation:
This pickup is a CLASSIC! Been around for a long time. It has a very nice top end with great harmonics that make is great for soloing; leads through a tube amp just rip out with a big, full sound, not too compressed. The mid range gives you a good distortion for most musical styles. The clarity on distortion is noteworthy, it’s what sets this pickup apart from many other high-output pickups. The bass is surprisingly well defined (my guitar w/ the JB is a baritone tuned to B), I was expecting less. The sound is very full and dark on the baritone. I admit there might be a more precise and harder attacking pickup, but I like the warmth the J has.
Cleans are ok, if you don’t have it set too high in your guitar they’ll sound better, but don’t expect single.coil like sounds from it. It sounds warm and mid-rangy.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Everything which uses some distortion, from classic rock to heavy metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
epiphone les paul goth
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
bridge stock
Other pickups on guitar:
neck stock
Artists using this pickup:
lots
You musical style(s):
pop punk to death metal
Reason for pickup change:
stock was very piercing with no bass
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
medium output
Perceived output level:
a good bit more than the stock,i had the stock close to the strings but now iv the jb nearly even with the caseing and its bout 2times louder
Tone:
the bass is where its needed and the treble isnt piercing either. a little bit like the stock so if u like the tone of the stock but want a better pickup get the jb
Sonic evaluation:
epiphone les paul -> metal zone pedal -> marshall 30mgdfx
its a bit noisy depending on the pedal setting. i can get a real light distortion or absolutly crazy stuff. playing solos really makes it sound like uv turned up the amp volume without being harsh.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
everything from blink 182 to slayer.its recommended for the bridge
Model of guitar or bass:
Mahogany American Deluxe Fender HSS Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Fender DH-1
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio Virtual Vintage Pickups
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck and now ME!
You musical style(s):
Alternative, Rock, Hard Rock, Classic Rock, Gospel, etc.
Reason for pickup change:
The Fender DH-1 didn’t cut it for me soun-wise
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Balanced Mids and lots of treble not alot of bass though
Sonic evaluation:
Using my Fender Strat with my Carvin…this pickup really sings!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It’s a great match for the rock and gospel styles I play
Model of guitar or bass:
Double Fat Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Another attempt in replacing a JB.
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Stag-Mag (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
Jake E Lee, others
You musical style(s):
Metal and Power Blues
Reason for pickup change:
Need a reliable and familiar PU.
Pickup features:
Humbucker bridge
Impedence or other specs:
16.4K
Perceived output level:
Hot, not ultra hot just hot.
Tone:
A bit bright but the mids are there for a reason.
Sonic evaluation:
A solid Maple Double Fat Strat into a)JCM 600 B)JCM 800 C) Laney Gh100TI. For the past 15+ years I’ve used a JB loaded guitar to setup my rig. It’s a benchmark for which all other PUs are judged against. Why? In the Marshalls it’s articulate and the harmonics simply screamed out! Palm mutes could be better but the lead tone makes up for it. Besides if you’re playing palm mutes with A5 type chords you can’t get a PU that’s too overwhelmingly middy since your higher strings won’t ring out. Through my Laney the JB helps to brighten things up. Is it too bright? It really depends on your rig. If you find it’s too bright put in a TBX tone pot. For what’s it’s worth : Maple Strat with a JB into a decent size pedal line into a Marshall and I think it sounds great for what I play.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I know alot of players that like the fact that it cleans up pretty well for a hot bridge PU. I don’t use it clean much but I guess it’s good to know that it’s there. I play Old School Metal – which means pinch harmonics are very common.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
plenty of them…
You musical style(s):
everything but country… mostly alt. rock, nu metal, hard rock, classic rock… rock
Reason for pickup change:
Gibson pickups become mud in any high gain scenario.
Pickup features:
HB Passive
Impedence or other specs:
www.seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
About the same as stock, maybe slightly more
Tone:
Slightly trebly and tight, but yet full.
Sonic evaluation:
I normally use a Vetta with the Mesa’esc models at full throttle. I’ve had this in two Les Pauls, a ‘04 Standard, and a ‘00 Double-cut Standard. Initially it replaced the Burstbucker V in the Standard. The BBV had a lot of output, but was too vintage sounding and of course became pure mud with some gain. In with the JB… The Standards are considered dark in general, but the JB made it quite a bit darker. It was a nice tight sound, full, but with slightly more treble than bass. It made the Standard a bit too dark for my taste. It wasn’t a perfect match with the SD Alnico II Pro at the neck, but it wasn’t a horrible match either. The DC Standard (arch top) is quite a bit lighter with, I assume, larger sound chambers, therefore quite a bit brighter and more open sounding. The JB matched with the DC nicely, unlike the stock which was quite muddy in this environment. The guitar is still bright sounding, but quite a bit tighter while still retaining a full sound (fuller than in the Standard, with more bass). It played well with the SD ‘59 at the neck.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Suitable for rock, rock, and um, rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha Pacifica
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio FRED
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender Texas Specials
Artists using this pickup:
Lots
You musical style(s):
Rock
Reason for pickup change:
FRED was very thin and whiny.
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
Farty!
Sonic evaluation:
I used this pickup in live situations running through various amps including a 5150, and a POD straight into the board. While I agree with many others here that this pu is great for harmonics (probably the best I’ve ever used for this, although I have never used active pickups), I didn’t like it’s sound overall. My main complaint is that I found the bottom end loose and farty sounding. Maybe I’m just one of those crazy, misguided individuals that prefers the sound of Dimarzios. I have since installed a super distortion and it sounds great, although artificial harmonics are much more difficult to come by with it. The improvement in tone was well worth that trade off.
Some have said that the JB sounds good clean, however as a rule I dislike humbuckers for this and prefer single coils so I can’t really comment objectively on that.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
If you like a tight bottom end for your distorted stuff I’d look elsewhere.
Model of guitar or bass:
Homemade Explorer
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Distortion in Neck
Artists using this pickup:
Deftones is all I know of
You musical style(s):
Metal, CLASSIC ROCK
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
With my setup it has lots of chunk, lots of low end, not too many mids, nice smooth highs
Sonic evaluation:
I plug straight in to my crate GFX-212, the guitar has a 5-position switch a500k ohm pot and a250k ohm pot, can dial up about any sound I want with the Duncan Distortion in the neck,from thick creamy distortion to low end chunk, biting highs, or just a plain ol’ sweet sounding Strat.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mostly metal/hard southern rock
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter C1 Blackjack
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
SH-1 ‘59
Artists using this pickup:
Like that dude from Britney Fox or something
You musical style(s):
rock, hard rock, metal, post-punk, retro punk, cybergrungetechopop
Reason for pickup change:
This is the pickup I decided to replace.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16K or in the ballpark
Perceived output level:
Hotter than anything else, ever.
Tone:
All treble. Screechy, icepicky when clean, piercing…get the picture?
Sonic evaluation:
I had to get rid of this, but I thought I’d share my reasons, since a lot of people buy this pickup, and if you go into the Seymour Duncan forums, they’ll recommend this to you for rock. I was using this in the Schecter C1 Blackjack that I used to have, and it had to go! It hurt my head! I couldn’t stand to be in the same room with it (when it was plugged in and playing, I mean.) It cut through my ears like an icepick, especially when it was clean. It was literally unusable clean. What’s that you say? Turn down the treble using my tone pot? Well, sure, but then the ‘59 pickup in the neck would sound wrong. The one thing I do have to say good about this is that it made harmonics a snap. It was literally so hot that it gave you that sound where the guitar sounds like it’s about to explode, you know, where any noise you make on the strings by rubbing your hand turns into pinch harmonics. I eventually settled on putting an SH-5 Custom where the JB used to be, and that sounded SOOOO much better. Finally, I sold the whole guitar, because I didn’t like the 25.5″ scale. Now I’ve got a SH-6 Distortion, which I prefer over the Custom.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play rock, hard rock, metal, post-punk. This is not good for vintage tones, but fun for ’80’s “metal”.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Studio
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
498T
Other pickups on guitar:
490R
Artists using this pickup:
many
You musical style(s):
Rock, Metal, some Blues
Reason for pickup change:
I wasn’t satisfied with the output of the stock 498T.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16.4 K impedance
Perceived output level:
High output, but not too high (maybe the passive version of an EMG 85)
Tone:
middy, trebly
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Gibson LP Studio plugged straight into a Mesa Single Rectifier. The Recto then goes to a THD Hotplate, and then to a Marshall MG412 cabinet.
I was expecting a little more gain out of the JB, but it is definitely more than the 498T. Like other people have said, it does lack bass, but that’s easily corrected by turning the bass up on the amp. It gives very clear, pronounced harmonics and has great sustain. It also cleans up very nicely (much better than the 498T) and has a nice tone for a bridge humbucker.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a lot of metal, ie. Metallica, Megadeth, Godsmack, etc., and this pickup fits them all.
Model of guitar or bass:
Agile 2500
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock ceramic
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock neck ceramic
Artists using this pickup:
List is endless
You musical style(s):
Hard rock/Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Stock was too thin and sterile sounding.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Pretty fuzzy all the way up. I have my volume pot on about 7. Great crunch!!
Tone:
Very nice on all freq’s. Great middy tone. Awesome for Metal tone.
Sonic evaluation:
Peavey XXX, Sonic 412 cab, Agile 2500 LP model, Gibson LP
Probably would sound great also with a Rectifier
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Perfect match for doing Metal and Hard Rock. Think Metallica tone!
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul Classic Quilt Top
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Epiphone Stock PUP
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan ‘59 SH-1n
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, Classic Rock, Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Originals sucked.
Pickup features:
Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Fairly high output. I definately noticed a jump in overall volume after installation.
Tone:
Mids are pronounced but trebles and bass aren’t far behind.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m running this PUP in my Epi Les Paul (mahogany body and neck with a maple cap) straight into a Fender Hot Rod Deluxe (modded and using a Jensen C12N). This pickup sizzles through this rig! It’s perfect for cutting through the mix during a solo and combined with the ‘59 in the neck position it provides awesome balance for rhythm. Also, if you like pinch harmonics this pickup will be your best friend.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This PUP is a perfect match for Blues, Rock, Hard Rock, Country, Southern Rock and Pop.
Model of guitar or bass:
esp ltd v-100
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
duncan designed stock hb-103b
Other pickups on guitar:
other duncan designed (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
el hombre
You musical style(s):
hard rock, blues, punk
Reason for pickup change:
need clarity and higher output.
Pickup features:
passive
Impedence or other specs:
seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
hot
Tone:
well balanced with emphasis on highs/mids
Sonic evaluation:
ampeg r212 reverberocket combo, boss mega distortion. heavy as hell, mind ripping tone. searing leads and enough chunk and thump to make rhythm worthwhile.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
this pickup is good for rhythm/riff guys, solos, in the regions between rock and metal. well balanced.
Model of guitar or bass:
Esp EC-1000 Deluxe
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
59
Artists using this pickup:
Quite a few artists
You musical style(s):
Alternative hard-rock
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
Tone:
very balanced string to string with very clear sound and definition
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a Laney Vh100R with Marshall 1960a cab with 2 V30s and 2 GT-75s along with my trusty ESP EC-100 Deluxe
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Hum; Pass
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Good output
Tone:
Alright tone; thin in the middle, not balanced
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
american strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
s/d pearly gates
Other pickups on guitar:
custom s/d single coils
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
classis rock /blues
Reason for pickup change:
pearly gates to bright
Pickup features:
humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
full very hot, easy to distort paf style
Tone:
killer right in pocket for classic or hard rock
Sonic evaluation:
marshall avt head 2-12 cab/ tubeworks rack setup 2-12 greenbacks, gibson goltone les paul jr.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
classis rock blues, perfect for the classic rock sound in a strat very hot p-up
Model of guitar or bass:
Retrofit on Gibsons
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Gibson
Other pickups on guitar:
See above
Artists using this pickup:
Everyone and their Mother
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock,Metal,Acid Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Lame pickups from your fave mfg.
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
See SD blurb…..souped up PAF with bumped 400 hZ peak
Perceived output level:
Medium
Tone:
A PAF with a spike around 400 hZ;fantastic harmonics
Sonic evaluation:
Used in Marshalls,Mesa-Boogies….etc.Basically a PAF with a bump in the upper-mids that Magically makes those “Ping Harmonics” fly off the Guitar.Great vintage sound.Better installed on a Trad Ax like a Gibson than with modern gear like Ibanez…overall, these are thin sounding on a Basswood Guitar.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Hard Rock,Metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
Home made Frankenstrat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Invader ( makes a great paperweight)
Other pickups on guitar:
fender tex mex neck and middle (surprisingly good, the reason they are so cheap is because they ADMIT that they are mexican made)
Artists using this pickup:
i dunno, lots of people
You musical style(s):
from jazz to Metal
Reason for pickup change:
the invader made my alder sound like mahogany. And I already have a bass player.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
it doesnt really matter, just hear it.
Perceived output level:
Hotter than any stock bucker, not too hot.
Tone:
well balanced. more mids than the average pickup though, but that is necessary with todays mid-less high gain amps and pedals. it does a justice
Sonic evaluation:
I use this on my custom strat through a bedrock lead 50, a modded hot rod deluxe and a classic 30. sound great through all. this pickup must be understood though. if i am playing blues through a classic 30, i switch from pos 4 to the jb and it gives a small boost.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
this pickup is great for the versitile guitarist. not too much output and maintains tone
Model of guitar or bass:
1977 Ibanez Les Paul Copy
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock super 70’s
Other pickups on guitar:
super 70’s in neck
Artists using this pickup:
lots
You musical style(s):
rock, alternative…blah blah….
Reason for pickup change:
stock super 70’s went the microphonic route…
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
mid output, not as hot as I thought it would be, but you never know til its in the guitar.
Tone:
all around, i’m pretty happy. Definitely more full sounding than the stock super 70’s. Notes cut clearer even with a great deal of distortion….
Sonic evaluation:
like i said, its in my 1977 ibanez les paul copy, to a mesa boogie v-twin preamp pedal into a ‘96 Fender Blues Deville. I also have an epi sheraton II with duncan custom (b) and ‘59 (n), which I’m very happy with. A friend had a JB in his epi lp, and I liked the sound, so i thought i’d give this one a try.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i needed more chunk for rythmn in a punky rock cover band, this seemed to fit the bill quite nicely. Didn’t get the feedback that I thought this pickup would give, but at least has nice tone and got rid of the microphonic squeal i was getting with the super 70’s.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson L-6s, Ibanez Destroyer X
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Too numerous to remember
Other pickups on guitar:
Gib – DeArmond Goldtone, Ibanez – Screamin’ Demon
Artists using this pickup:
A lot, including some that shouldn’t
You musical style(s):
Blues, hard rock, some metal
Reason for pickup change:
Do you really need a reason to spend hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on installing pickup after pickup on dozens of guitars, looking for the right pickup/wood combination that makes you want to play your axe instead of eat and sleep? Hey, beginners, don’t think you’re not going to go here. If you are serious about you’re playing, you swap pickups. The better you get, the more expensive the habit.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
See SD website
Perceived output level:
The JB is a rather hot pickup, designed for gain of various strengths, the more the merrier!
Tone:
I find the JB to be a pretty clear pickup, cuts through a loud mix, plenty of midrange to get your point across. Well balanced, but can be very thin in anything other than a mahogany body. Very trebly, for the lead player that likes his harmonics. Isn’t going to give you a tremendous palm mute chug by itself, but when combined with the right neck p/up, watch out.
Sonic evaluation:
I just wanted to make a couple of remarks about what I’ve found to be some interesting characteristics of this p/up.
First, the JB loses a great amount of it’s fantastic grind when hooked up to a volume pot. I’ve found the JB to sound best when it’s run straight to a tone pot, no volume. You want something softer, use your neck p/up, for God’s sake!
Second, the treble can get very spiky, as many have mentioned. I have my tone pot around 7-8, just enough to tame some of the spikeyness without killing off the harmonics (which require treble!!!!)
Third, because the JB can get so thin, even with compression, I almost always use a neck/bridge setting. However, my neck p/ups are split between series and parallel. I use the parallel neck setting, volume (with tone cap and resistor – get a clue, people!) in combination with the JB. This is tone heaven!
On the DeArmond/JB(with chrome cover) combo, I can get some beautiful sounds, from a light crunch to full on high-gain insaneness. Here’s a trick, though, when you have a JB with a chrome cover, extend the pole pieces a little bit, maybe 1/32 to 1/16, for better string separation. You’ll definitely hear the difference. A metal cover seems to homogenize the magnetic field some, I wouldn’t use a metal cover bridge humbucker on a dedicated shred machine.
With the Screamin’ Demon/JB combination, I’m in shred heaven. The SDemon is also used in the parallel config, combined with the JB I get even more harmonics, growl and a great palm mute chunk. It’s not the most versatile axe I own, but when I feel like bringing the roof down, this is the one, everything on, volume up, stand back!!!!
Also, I tend to raise my JB’s up a little past where everyone says to set them. There’s a point where you can hear the strings start to oscillate due to the magnets being too close, then back them off just a tad. I’m not recording in a multi-million dollar studio, I just want to scream some liquid fire and I’ll put up with a little bit of oscillation to get it. There’s nothing like it when you find it.
Last, a warning. I have found that the JB doesn’t mate up well with an Alnico II pickup in the neck. Too much of a sonic change between them. Always use an Alnico V in the neck, you’ll save yourself a headache and some $$$.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These are no good for anything clean or light. If you are afraid of gain, stay away, far, far away.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Studio
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 500T
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Marshall rock!
Reason for pickup change:
The Ceramic Mag was too mushy and was incredibly noisy.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16.4k
Perceived output level:
It sounds hotter than the stock pickups, but with an emphasis on the upper mids and treble.
Tone:
Very bright and trebly. Too bright, for me. It’s not quite the “icepick in the ear” feeling, but the treble strings sound harsh, with very little sustain. There is very little bass response in this pickup. The mids do have a nice sparkle to them, though. Bar chords sound nice and crisp, and there’s a lot of note definition…I like that a lot. Unfortunately, MetalMan cannot live on barre chords alone; single note lines and leads sound very anemic, not at all what I was expecting. Strangely enough, my friend has a strat/tele hybrid with a JB Jr. in the bridge, and other than the tele’s natural twanginess, I really can’t tell the difference between his and my LP in a back-to-back sonic comparison. Whether you like the pickup or not, the JB definitely has a sound of its own.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m playing through a 78 JMP 50 watt w/ EL34s, which is a pretty bright amp on its own. 16k is *really* hot for a pickup, and it seems to be boosting frequencies that are already very well compensated.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play 70s style hard rock and metal, with touches of stoner and doom. This is supposed to be the JB’s bailiwick, but to my ears the JB is just too bright to compete with the rest of the band…I need something more balanced. However, I think it might sound better in rigs with higher headroom, like a Sunn Model T, Ampeg V-2, Fender, or Marshall with 6550 or KT-88 power tubes. The pickup is very hot and will do a fine job of driving the front end of an amp.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Studio
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 498T
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
Dave Mustaine
You musical style(s):
Thrash Metal, Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The 498T wasn’t hot enough, and i need a nice open coil pickup.
Pickup features:
humbucking, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
about as much ouput as a Gibson 500T
Tone:
this pickup is very trebly, which is really good, and balanced, and it has a full sound, not thin like some bridge pickups
Sonic evaluation:
this pickup is insane, it’s one of the best bridge pickups i’ve heard for metal, I’m currently running it through a 4×12 with an orange AD30TC head and it is perfect my musical style.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
As i said i play thrash metal, and this pickup is great for it, i really haven’t tried it on anything else, but it seems like it would be too hot to play jazz and soft stuff like that, seems too hot.
Model of guitar or bass:
1998 Epiphone Les Paul Standard Limited Edition Quilt Top
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock Epiphone humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
stock Epiphone humbucker
Artists using this pickup:
Seymour Duncan himself…he says so!
You musical style(s):
Rock, a very little bit of sloppily played jazz
Reason for pickup change:
The stock bridge pup was an absolute dog (no pun intended…or perhaps it was 
Very middy, mushy, no definition. Not good for lead work.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker, black exposed bobbins. 4-conductor cable with foil shield. Wax potted, I think.
Impedence or other specs:
Pretty hot…don’t remember exact number.
Perceived output level:
Pretty hot compared to stock. I noticed a definite jump in volume.
Tone:
Still not what I would call a “hi-fi” pickup, not in the way that a Fender single coil or a PAF is. Maybe it’s just the guitar it’s in, but my JB still sounds very midrangey with weak bass and trebles. Certainly doesn’t seem to fit the little tone profile graph that Seymour provided on his website.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m running my Paul through a Laney HC50 combo amp–admittedly not the best amp in the world, I know–and often through distortion boxes. I have to say that the Les Paul/JB sounds best through a good distortion, like a Boss DS-1 or a Big Muff. It excels at creamy overdriven tones, and it makes controllable feedback harmonics easy to get. By itself, on the clean channel, it sounds annoyingly whiny. The JB is definitely a rock-type distortion pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Excellent for hard rock, Floydish space rock in combination with a Big Muff or similar fuzztone, classic rock…anywhere you want thick, chunky overdriven power chords and leads. Not as good for more modern alternative type rock, which generally begs for a brighter Fendery sound. Might do for metal in a pinch.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Gibson POS :^)
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan ‘59 in neck
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck, supposedly
You musical style(s):
Everything from ballads to blues to hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted something that didn’t SUCK like the stock hardware
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Refer to Seymour Duncan website for this data
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
Good for rock.
Sonic evaluation:
Used with Les Paul and Fender Hot Rod DeLuxe and POD.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
JB works well with rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
DiMarzio Super Distortion
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan ‘59
Artists using this pickup:
Dave Mustaine, Marty Friedman, Joe Perry, Tommy Thayer, Jeff Beck
You musical style(s):
rock, metal, blues
Reason for pickup change:
DiMarzio lacked good tone and clarity.
Pickup features:
humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
yeah…
Perceived output level:
Not as hot as the distortion pup but hotter than a ‘59
Tone:
balanced. I think one guy said something like,” A top like Halle Berry and a bottom like Jennifer Lopez.” Good one, dude. Sounds pretty accurate.
Sonic evaluation:
Epiphone lp standard through a crappy Line 6 spider 210. Also own a POD 2.0 which is slightly more enjoyable to use than the amp. Only used it twice since I got it, though.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play anything but rap or disco. I’d say its good for what I play
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG3120
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio Tone Zone
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
Many
You musical style(s):
Many (no country or Neil Young)
Reason for pickup change:
Got tired of the Dimarzios pretty quick!
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
does it matter?
Perceived output level:
about the same as the tone zone… maybe a little hotter.
Tone:
clear and balanced.
Sonic evaluation:
O.K. It doesn’t really matter what I’m playing through but I’ll tell you anyway – Marshall JMP-1 through 2 Fender Champ 25SE’s with a Quadraverb in stereo live, POD, J-Station and JMP-1 direct. This pickup sounds great in this guitar. It has more bottom end in a mahogany guitar (I had it in basswood before) and is sweet with plenty of sustain which the tone zone lacked in this guitar. The tone zone wasn’t bad and I really tried to like it but it tended to choke up (loose sustain) under medium to heavy gain. I had to modify (cut) the mounting tabs of the JB a little to get it to fit in this guitar but it was no big deal. I don’t think Ibanez want’s you to put Duncans (or others) in this guitar…TOO BAD!!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Bridge position for sure, never tried it in the neck. Works well for many styles… a “swiss army knife” of a pickup. Just check out Robben Ford.
Model of guitar or bass:
B.C.Rich Warlock
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock p.o.s.
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Dave Mustain
You musical style(s):
Metal, Rock, Classic Rock, Classical.
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pick-ups were horrible.
Pickup features:
Humbucker passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Sounded good on clean, but distortion wasn’t great…Too much twang for my taste.
Tone:
Bassy
Sonic evaluation:
B.C.Rich Warlock guiter, Fender Princeston Chorus 120w amp, Digitech RP300 effects processor..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Again…Metal, Rock, Classic Rock, Classical.
Model of guitar or bass:
Hamer Studio and Mirage
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan 59
Artists using this pickup:
Too many too list
You musical style(s):
Heavy rock and metal
Reason for pickup change:
Duncans were stock on guitar.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hot – above average output and volume but easily controllable.
Tone:
Balanced and beautiful.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using this bridge bucker in a Hamer Mirage and a Hamer Studio. I am running through a VHT Valvulator into a Line 6 Vetta and this pickup is heaven. Ther bottom is thick and chunky…nice and tight. The mids are perfect and thick, plus the highs are sweet and warm. This pickup sounds great clean and heavy. I have no complaints at this point and hopefully do not see any in the future. I can’t get over the thickness of the Duncan JB……beautiful and rich tone. Our detuned heavy songs now sound so much more defined and thick….even over the Rio grande BBQ which I was using in another guitar. I also tried the Duncan C-5 inthe Hamer but it sounded thin next to the thick balls of the JB. Great pup!!!! I tried EMGs and hated them…..but I didn’t spend time with them.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Heavy metal/heavy rock/rock
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Epiphone
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan SH-1 (’59)
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck?
You musical style(s):
Blues, Country, British
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted something hotter, livelier than the stock Epi Pups.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
About the same as stock, very generic.
Tone:
Lots of mids and high, light on the bass.
Sonic evaluation:
I bought this pickup based on the reviews here, as well as my satisfaction with the Duncan ‘59 that I was already using in the neck. I play through a SF Super Reverb. I have to tell you though, that I am a little disappointed in this pickup. The JB to me sounds very generic and bland. It is average in output, and seems to lack the “sparkle” of the ‘59. There may be a reason, however.
I have come to realize that Epi LP Standards have maple necks. It is obvious if you look at one with paint you can see through, not ebony, or the like. The neck’s wood is clearly lighter than the body, and has a different grain than mahagony. Also, you can look at the used ones on ebay, and any dents,chips on the necks will reveal the unmistakable evidence of Maple. I just looked at some new 2003 EPI LPs, at Sam Ash, and guess what? They have maple necks; three piece, like the old Gibson LP Deluxe’s.
Is that a bad thing? Not according to a Luthier I just spoke to. The Maple neck can withstand falls “FAR” better than Mahogony. It also gives the guitar a brighter sound, not as dark as it’s Gibson counterpart. I just wish Epiphone would be honest, and admit that their LPs have maple necks.
Whats the point of all this? An earlier reviewer stated that the JB would not be a good choice for a maple necked guitar, and perhaps he’s right. I wounder what my JB would sound like in a Gibson.
In any case, I don’t thind the JB is right for me, and so the search goes on.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson USA Kelly
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
Megadeth, lots of others
You musical style(s):
Melodic Death/Black Metal-heavy rock in general
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
A bit above average
Tone:
fairly balanced with a lean to the treble side, has a high mid spike
Sonic evaluation:
In my alder Kelly, it is thin, weak and has NO low end chunk. In a guitar made of a more bassy wood..this pickup would ROCK.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
‘97 Hamer USA Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
SH-1N ‘59 Model
Artists using this pickup:
Too many (IMO)
You musical style(s):
Blues/Blues Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Haven’t yet.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Mine tested a whopping 18.6k!!
Perceived output level:
High output 18.6k worth!
Tone:
Lacks a warm bottom, middy and fairly trebbly too.
Sonic evaluation:
‘97 USA Hamer Standard- Mesa Rect-O-Verb Combo- Fender Super Champ- Randall RG150 Combo. This is a very popular PUP eventhough I don’t really care for it. On the Good side: You can get pinch harmonics without even trying (But I guess that’s not all good). And if you play alot of solos it works very well. You can also get some good heavy metal “chunk” out of it. On the Bad side: You get pinch harmonics way too easily, and it’s not a very “warm” sound. I really don’t believe this PUP works for the blues or bluesy rock. It’ll work well if you play harder styles of music. Just not for me.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
(Again) Blues&Blues Rock ,and I guess moderately hard rock We’ll call it “Firm Rock”.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Gothic Explorer
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 500T
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson 496
Artists using this pickup:
Megadeth, Scott Ian (Anthrax) and several others (listed on website)
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock and Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The 500T came stock in the bridge and although I liked it, I heard some strange noises and thought it might be the pickup. I figured since I was getting it looked at anyway, that I might want to replace the pickup and try something different for curiosity’s sake.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker (Bridge)
Impedence or other specs:
Website has chart listing specs and comparisons to other Seymour Duncan pickups
Perceived output level:
About the same as most stock pickups. Although it lists the output as about the same as the Seymour Duncan Distortion (SH-6), it is definitely not as “metal” as the SH-6. The 500T even seemed to have more output than the JB.
Tone:
Has a trebly, middy type sound that I would not catagorize as “warm”. Not bad, but not the warmth and distortion I expected. I thought the tone would resemble that of the SH-6, but it doesn’t
Sonic evaluation:
I have this put in my Gibson Gothic Explorer and run it through a LANEY GH100TI TONY IOMMI HEAD. I also throw a BOSS SD-1 in front to “slam” the tubes. This pickup sounded ok to me, but it didn’t blow me away like I thought it would. It has a very basic sound that didn’t really impress me.
Single notes seemed to sound good and sustain for what seemed like forever, but when hitting chords I get this slightly processed type sound. It is hard to describe but it just sounds kind of “fake”.
When I first got my guitar back from the store, the pickup was very close to the strings because the guy lowered my action. At this setting, the pickup sounded like an icepick and I was immediately let down. I lowered the pickup and was able to get a very usable sound, but like I said, it was nothing to write home about.
I also noticed that this pickup was very noisy. Even playing through a POD with the noise gate on, I was getting these irritating noises.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like playing hard rock and metal. Although this pickup can do metal and hard rock, I think you have to have a certain setup to achieve this. It just feels like you have to work so hard to get a great metal sound out of it. The Seymour Duncan Distortion, and EMG-81 that I previously owned could do metal and hard rock without much prodding.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Gold Top Deluxe
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson mini humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Neck pickup is a Kent Armstrong PAF
Artists using this pickup:
El Becko and a multitude of others who recognise a great sounding pickup.
You musical style(s):
Blues/Rock : out of the British 60s/70s school
Reason for pickup change:
The original minihumbucker lacked clout. Great for clean parts but needed external help to overdrive my Hiwatt DR103. The JB had a great reputation for power and clarity and to optimise its versatility I wired it to a pair of Yamahan push/push tone pots to coil tap and/or reverse its pahse with the neck p/u. Results include greater all out gain, excellent interaction with the neck Armstrong both in- and out-of-phase. The tapped mode is brighter than the mini h/b that the SD replaced. It’s a corking pickup. Now over fifteen years old it still delivers the goods. I have never ever considered replacing it. It is THAT good!
Pickup features:
Zebra-coiled passive humbucker.
Impedence or other specs:
C. 15 k ohm (7.5 k ohm tapped) with AlNiCo magnet.
Perceived output level:
More output than a PAF but with a strong mid-range and great clarity. Vastly superior to a Di Marzio Super II in terms of power and versatility.
Tone:
Solid, tight bottom end; mid, mid and more mids; crisp treble which becomes searing in tapped mode. Roll off the volume and the tapped mode becomes very glassy. Try and convince some folk that they are hearing a Les Paul in this set up and disbelief sets in very quickly.
Sonic evaluation:
Gibson Les Paul with SD JB into either Hiwatt DR103 and 4×12 OR Marshall MG30DFX (depending on venue). The Hiwatt and JB were made for one another. Wind up the gain and the master volume and listen to the Seymour sing. Harmonics slice the top of your head off. Simply an awesome combination. Roll back the guitar volume and the clean tones never disappoint. With the Marshall 30 watt combo, the JB makes a nonsense of the overdrive channel, it simply overwhelms it and all subtlety is lost in an overdriven mush. Stick to the clean channel and use a ProCo RAT (uh huh, another JB influence!) to graduate levels of overdrive and distortion. The Jeff Beck, into a Marshall (clean) via a RAT makes one of the best guitar sounds in our little musical circus. The tapped mode offers up all manner of possibilities, which is compounded by the phase reversal options. Probably the most versatile sounding guitar I have – although it won’t take on a Strat on its own territory. If I can only take one guitar to a gig or jam, it is almost always the JB armoured Gold Top. Draw your own conclusions…..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues/Rock. By definition this is Les Paul and British valve [tube] amps blasting it out. The JB has added extra dimensions to my sound and was worth every penny. In conjunction with a PAF it appears to achieve a very even balance across the sound spectrum. I wouldn’t be inclined to use the JB in any other than the bridge position. It is simply a high class act.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Studio
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 498T
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson 490R
Artists using this pickup:
no idea, my assumption would be Jeff Beck, but i don’t care. I use it.
You musical style(s):
rock
Reason for pickup change:
The stock 498T wasn’t my cup of tea. It wasn’t clear enough.
Pickup features:
passice
Impedence or other specs:
no idea
Perceived output level:
Around the same as the stock pickup, maybe a tad less
Tone:
It has excellent tone, excellent clarity, although, a little less bass than the stock pickup, but i still love it.
Sonic evaluation:
I play through a Fender Deluxe 90 (haha, yes that’s right) it’s one of the better solid states out there, believe me, but i have played it through a Marshall dsl50 at the music store, and it sounds even more awesome through that. If you buy a gibson, make sure it doesn’t have the 490/498 combination because they suck. Get a les paul with burstbuckers or something. But the JB is excellent, perfect harmonics and sustain, perfect feedback control. I love it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Seymour duncan recommends this for the bridge, they don’t even make a neck version so…. go figure.
Model of guitar or bass:
fernandes native x
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
some stock piece of poo
Other pickups on guitar:
some other stock piece of poo
Artists using this pickup:
terry corso(alien ant farm), stephen carpenter(deftones), tommy lee(solo project)
You musical style(s):
rock, punk, emo, heavy
Reason for pickup change:
stock pu was not hot and started to rust
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
pretty hot, but not super hot
Tone:
trebley, yet balanced well
Sonic evaluation:
i put it into an alder body fernandes. it sounds so sweet, very much like the deftones sound. im using a marshall g100rcd half stack, and it sounds really good threw it and my mxr phase 90.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
heavy rock, punk, and emo, good match
Model of guitar or bass:
EBMM axis
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
dimarzio
Other pickups on guitar:
duncan alnico II pro neck
Artists using this pickup:
way too many to list! seriously!
You musical style(s):
classic rock to metaL
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted duncans in my guitar,because the duncans allow the natural tone of the instrument to come through better. they also sound more organic and real.
Pickup features:
passive ,humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
16.40K
Perceived output level:
medium hot
Tone:
present,with crunch and a lot of harmonics,singing lead tone
Sonic evaluation:
marshall plexi re-issue(1959 slp) half stack with a G major prosessor.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
any!
Model of guitar or bass:
strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
dimarzio virtual vintage (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
who knows
You musical style(s):
metal, rock, blues, fusion whatever
Reason for pickup change:
stocks suck and i had a JB in my jackson and i loved the sound. great rock/metal sound, very crunchy
Pickup features:
humbucker, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
pretty good amount of gain, but not crazy like EMGs which have no tone.
Tone:
crisp, crunchy but i dont recomment it with a maple neck, kinda too bright.
Sonic evaluation:
standard strat, straight to a laney tube amp. with a couple effects. i love this bucker. sounds perfect for me but i the maple neck makes it a little brighter than i expected. but its got a good rock/metal crunch and amazing lead sounds.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
metal, rock, fusion;. i put it in the bridge.
Model of guitar or bass:
t******** les paul copy
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock nickle covered
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
jerry cantrell, adam jones, king buzzo
You musical style(s):
metal a la slayer & melvins, country honky tonk, experimental noise ex. melt banana
Reason for pickup change:
wanted to try something different.
Pickup features:
humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
…
Perceived output level:
it wasnt much hotter than the stock pickup.
Tone:
it’s labled as balanced
Sonic evaluation:
i’m using this les paul copy through a marshall avt 50 head & a crate cab from the 80’s
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i switch off from styles when i play, i mainly stay between the lines of metal & blues improv. the pickup is in the bridge position .
Model of guitar or bass:
Dean Icon
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
59
Artists using this pickup:
Marty Friedman, Van Halen, Jeff Beck, Jerry
You musical style(s):
Hardcore/Emo + ClassicRock/Blues
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pick up was weak and microphonic – Dean maked the worst pickups possible.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
whatever
Perceived output level:
Hot but not as hot as I had expected. I was expecting it to set the amp on fire – instead i got a very balanced, oped sounding pickup that cuts through the mix well.
Tone:
Hot and trebly – cuts through the mix- especially when playing live with a powerfull drummer, a muscular bassist and a vocalist on an ego volume trip.
Sonic evaluation:
I Play through a Crate VC3112 with a celestion V30 in it and man o man does this thing rip. The amp has to be cranked but when it is – oh man oman watch out. The tone is golden when soloing and the it sustains forever. My band lets me take longer solo breaks now – they like the sound that much. Oh and I am only usin a crybaby in the chain.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play everything from really heavey TooL inspired stuff to clean, jazzy-blues and this thing was designed to do one thing – solo and for that its awesome.
Model of guitar or bass:
ESP Custom Shop MV
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
Single Coil in neck – Duncan LS 22?
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck, Jerry Cantrell
You musical style(s):
Rock/Metal – Led Zeppelin to Cannibal Corpse. No Mall Metal.
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
On the hotter side – similar to gibson 500T.
Tone:
Unusual sound – very smooth, but somewhat “tubby” – lots of bass and low-midrange, upper mids are scooped a bit, articulate top end
Sonic evaluation:
I’m running this pickup into a Randall V-Max head. This pickup lacks the low end clarity you get from, say, EMGs, but the top end is very nice – produces smooth lead tones with plenty of bite. However, when you go to start riffing/palm muting, it falls apart – low end lacks the chunkiness you need for heavy music, and the bass is real flabby – no definition. Great pickup for someone who’s into 70’s rock, though – lead tones are real nice. If you’re looking for a Metallica/Testament/Cannibal Corpse sound with a lot of palm muting, this is not the pickup for you – it’s too flabby in the low end.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Everything, but mostly metal. This pickup isn’t all that great, because the low end is flabby. Lead sounds are pretty rockin’ though.
Model of guitar or bass:
esp ltd m202bb
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
emg hz
Other pickups on guitar:
sd ‘59
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
for this guitar it is metal/hardcore
Reason for pickup change:
the emgs had no tone and would feed back like a bitch. they also
had too meany highs and not enough mids.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
eh?
Perceived output level:
about the same as the hz but fuller
Tone:
warm full bodied much like a nice playboy model.
Sonic evaluation:
right now i’m runing this in to a sovtek mig 60 with a metal zone (yeah i know) out frount to get the gain i want. with cabs i’m running an avatar 2×12 with a vintage 30 and a v12 and a old fender bassman with a balck shadow and a jbl
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
it’s a good pick up it will do just about anything.
Model of guitar or bass:
24″ scale maple body Fender Project Guitar
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour duncan Strat lipstick Tube
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Needed to brighten up this short scale beauty
Pickup features:
humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
perfect for this guitar, the lipstick provides me with Vintage sounding chords,a nd the JB is great for all applications and adds harmonics and overdrive when turned on.
Tone:
Absolute Balance on this guitar. Chords sound great and single notes stand out
Sonic evaluation:
I have been using this guitar with a Marshall practive amp and a Fender Vibrolux at the neighbors.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This guitar sounds great for blues and classic rock. The JB is very forgiving and the short scale which caused dead sounding pingy tone now sustains and has great harmonics.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Studio
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Regular Gibson humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Some regular Gibson PU on neck position
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck, he he
You musical style(s):
Metal and Hardcore
Reason for pickup change:
More gain and power
Pickup features:
Humbucking, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Balanced, with nice bass and screaming trebble
Sonic evaluation:
I used this guitar with a Peavy Supreme 100 and some ENGL Savage. Today I use it with my new Laney GH 100 TI. No f***in Pedals needed.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This PU is perfect for high gain sounds. It is always brilliant, transparent and sounds like a chainsaw. Kicks ass!!!
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Les Paul Custom Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Les Paul Hummer at neck (this sounds very bluesy)
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck Duhh
You musical style(s):
Vinnie Moore, Joe Satriani, King’s X
Reason for pickup change:
Friend had this one and it was killer in tone!
Pickup features:
Humbucker with Coil Splitting Capability
Impedence or other specs:
High Output (compared to stock Les Paul unit)
Perceived output level:
This is pretty HOT…but not as hot as say an EMG
Tone:
balanced in tone…a bit trebly when coil is split to simulate single coil
Sonic evaluation:
I use this to make direct recordings using ToneCrafter
I made thes mp3 clips using the JB p/u
http://pages.sbcglobal.net/kavita/mp3s/vin_chunk.mp3
http://server23.hypermart.net/killertone/tcrafter.mpga
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It works great for bridge and neck…but I love my stock LesPaul neck p/u
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez S470
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Ibanez AH-1
Other pickups on guitar:
Ibanez AH-2, Ibanez AS-1
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck, Adam Jones?, Stephen Carpenter, Tim Mahoney
You musical style(s):
melodic hardcore/emo
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted a higher output pickup that held the bottom end.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Higher-than-normal output but not too high
Tone:
Very mid-heavy, bottom end breaks up very easily
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using an Ibanez S470 with a blocked floyd rose (tone killer) and a Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier through a Marshall 1960A 4×12.
When I first bought this pickup I had a Marshall AVT50H (g’head, laugh it up). After that experience I’ve gained that valuable knowledge that this pickup does not take well to high gain Solid-State amps. It turned the amp into even more of a static blasting toneless waste of money.
With the Recto, it behaved better but still isnt exactly what I wanted. The main problem is that the bottom end has a tendancy to break up and sound aweful. Otherwise it has very good presence and nice definition. It performs adequately with no distortion but I wasn’t blown away.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play melodic hardcore-emo, it’s hard to say whether it matches or not, I guess it doesn’t really. It’s meant for the bridge.
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson KV2 Korina
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Dave Mustaine, Marty Friedman of Megadeth, and shitloads of other people
You musical style(s):
Metal and blues
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
It’s hot enough for my tastes
Tone:
The tone is pretty chunky and sharp.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using it thru a Line6 Flextone which aint great but it gets the job done.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play Heavy Metal (Metallica/Megadeth) and blues and this is a great pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
Samick Ls-450 Artist (Les Paul Copy)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Rio Grande BBQ
Other pickups on guitar:
SH-2 jazz neck
Artists using this pickup:
dont care
You musical style(s):
Heavy, bluesy, a little of everything
Reason for pickup change:
Needed more output. I actually got this pickup by mistake. I was supposed to get the Duncan distorion, but I am glad about the mixup, and the seller and I are okay!
Pickup features:
humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16.4 or so
Perceived output level:
Hot yes.
Tone:
Balanced with more highs but not earsplitting
Sonic evaluation:
Crate VC 30 watt tube. This amp can do blues, metal, ( I don’t care what anyone else says, it does metal just fine! )and very nice full clean.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Suitable for all styles of music
Model of guitar or bass:
Custom Built Strat Body/Neck with two Humbuckers only
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
SH-2 Jazz Neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Light Rock, Jazz, Blues, Pop, General
Reason for pickup change:
N/A
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Rdc is approx 16.4 Ohms, 4 wires
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
Lots of edge but not tinty. No squeals
Sonic evaluation:
Tested through a Boss Blues Driver-Compressor/Sustain-Delay/Reverb effects chain into small Marshall (10″ speaker). Also into a small Ross PA via Marshall Recording Pre-Amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
35+ years overall playing experience guitar/bass. Enjoy Light Rock and Jazz, Blues and Pop. This pickup is probably too much sound for these styles.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epi Les Paul Flame Top
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Custom Custom
Artists using this pickup:
everyone should
You musical style(s):
blues, classic rock
Reason for pickup change:
stock pick ups just didn’t cut it
Pickup features:
humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
check the website
Perceived output level:
This pick up weighs heavier across the board however it does so while increasing the string definition
Tone:
extremely well balanced with a slight mid-ranged bump
Sonic evaluation:
I use this with a carvin vintage tweed and the matching 4 – 10 cab. I’ll use a touch of overdrive from a boss sd1 or a dano daddy o or a ts -7. That about wraps it up. I could not be more pleased. Combined with the custom custom I find a huge pallet of useful tones. I don’t know what more anyone could ask for, I have yet to play a club date where someone doesn’t come up and compliment me on the sound of the guitar.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I think this would be suitable for most applications and in either position. I previously had it the bridge position and had no complaints. The only reason I changed was that I happen to acquire the custom custom and it was just way to much for a neck position. I installed the and the rest is tonal history.
Model of guitar or bass:
FRAMUS Diablo Custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
-
Other pickups on guitar:
SSL-1 Hot Rails neck
Artists using this pickup:
Hundreds !
You musical style(s):
Prog pop rock
Reason for pickup change:
Haven’t changed it – yet!
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Can’t remember & who cares?
Perceived output level:
High
Tone:
treblely
Sonic evaluation:
First of all I’d like to point out that S.D. DO NOT MAKE A JEFF BECK MODEL. They told me themselves. JB Stands for Jazzy/Bluesy – nothing else !
This is a good attempt & has some interesting qualities. For example, the sound is nice & smooth & sparkly, but the warmth is just not there.
Pretty good for solos as it cut’s through so well, but split it and the sound is just too tinny, at least in conjunction with the other pick ups on my guitar ( SSL-1 & Hot Rails neck ). Even with the hot rails switched in with it, the sound is too brash, & the Hot Rails is VERY rounded.
Impressive in some aspects, but overall insatisfactory due to the balance. Rolling off the treble with the tone control just kills the sound, & EQ doesn’t help much either.
I’ll be changing it for a Custom Custom TB11 ASAP !!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Designed for the neck. As stated, pretty good for solos, but not much else !
Model of guitar or bass:
Greco Les Paul Copy (’82)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock PAF knock-off
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock PAF Knock-off. Not bad at all in neck.
Artists using this pickup:
Quite a few, Marty Freidman, etc.
You musical style(s):
70s Blusey Rock, some Jazz, some Blues
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more output at the bridge position
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
approx 14K
Perceived output level:
Moderately High.
Tone:
Fairly even with a slightly nasal mid
Sonic evaluation:
Greco Les Paul (a very high quality ride), Rbt Keeley Tube Screamer, Buddah Wah, Marshall 6100, 4×12s w/G12-80s. Intellifex and Furman PQ-3(for some very mild midrange tweaking). Moderately high output, but not unreasonable. Not a ‘distortion’ type as such. Has a nice vowelly quality (not as much as the Custom Custom in my ‘76 Destroyer, but it’s there). Doesn’t overwhelm you with output, but does ha a bit of kick. Bottom end is fairly tight.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
’70s Bluesy Rock: Travers, Marino, Kossoff, Alvin Lee.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone LP SP II
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Epiphone Stock Standard
Other pickups on guitar:
Epiphone Stock Standard in neck
Artists using this pickup:
Me, i don’t care who plays with SD’s, i bought it cause they sound good
You musical style(s):
punk rock
Reason for pickup change:
Liked the White Pickup look with the all black guitar. SD’s are great…And the sound a helluva lot better than the stock epi’s.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
slightly lower than the stock epi’s. not really hot. but it sounds good.
Tone:
trebly… not too much bass. could be the fact that i have it at the bridge, but it’s definitely more trebly than the stock epi’s.
Sonic evaluation:
sounds good with the amp i have…i have various voxes and oranges…sounds better thru the oranges and the marshalls. sounds a little shrill when first installed but somehow it seemed to break itself in. it’s good for solos that need to be on the edge of feedback.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play punk. this is a good pickup for punk. shrill punk. but don’t put it in the neck.
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha Ty Tabor Sig.
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan vintage rails (neck and middle)
Artists using this pickup:
Ty Tabor
You musical style(s):
Death/Black/Thrash
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
dont remember
Perceived output level:
eh not good enough for metal
Tone:
too much treble,cant turn up bass cuz then its too muddy
Sonic evaluation:
i use an ibanez smashbox through a crate mx120a on clean(cheap shit,gets the job done though)
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play death/black/thrash metal.its not good for those styles though,recommend use for mainstream rock(linkin park,deftones,tool)
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Epiphone Les Paul
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Epiphone pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The epiphone pickups were very noisy and caused a vast amount of unwanted feedback. Plus the distortion was weak and harmonics wouldnt cut through at all.
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
n/a
Perceived output level:
Pretty hot pickup, gets great harmonics considering the sustain of the heavy E. Les Paul.
Tone:
Very bright, sounds great for all out metal and anything where a very trebly, bright sound is wanted.
Sonic evaluation:
When I play my E. Les Paul I play it through my Crate GFX-212 and NS-2 noise suppresor. The NS-2 eliminates to noise, so the JB Trem. is left to do its work, which is creating some good, loud music. They sound good for neck or bridge postion, and sound great split as well.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
For my rock and metal style it sounds great, makes the Epiphone not SOUND like an Epiphone.
Model of guitar or bass:
RG470
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock v8
Other pickups on guitar:
stock (v7, s1)
Artists using this pickup:
lots (to name a few) terry corso (AAF), dave mustaine (used to), joe perry, ME
You musical style(s):
mainly punk and metal (prog, thrash, heavy, nu) some blues
Reason for pickup change:
wanted a pickup that had a heay distortion tone
i originally wanted to put a distortion model
in my guitar, but i wasn’t very experienced in
pickups so i got in my opinion the most versatile
pu’s on the market.
Pickup features:
passive humbucking pickup
Impedence or other specs:
wha? (go to www.seymourduncan.com) alnico 5 magnet
Perceived output level:
Pretty Hot, just a bit lower than the custom or distortion model
Tone:
lots of highs, a slight bit less bass, cut mids
Sonic evaluation:
rg470 into boss metal zone into Marshall G30RCD
my settings are metal zone; highs: 7, mids: 0, lows: 8
and dist. fairly high. for other non-metal styles i use
amp dist. with high gain lots of a bass, slightly less mids
and slightly less treble
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
heavy music (thrash/death, nu-metal, prog), punk (ska, emo, with some funkiness added in), blues
Model of guitar or bass:
Epi Flying-v 58 and ESP EX-100
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stocks
Other pickups on guitar:
Stocks
Artists using this pickup:
What is this a test?
You musical style(s):
Lots of styles, I like hard rock/metal most
Reason for pickup change:
wanted to change not-so-interesting stock PU’s
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
:S
Perceived output level:
Fairly high output..not going to make your cables shake though
Tone:
It has a pretty balanced tone with an upper mid’s punch that especially come out beautifully in leads and solo’s. It makes it hard to get a good rockin crunch down low sometimes but as long as you’ve got a decent amp/effects it shouldn’t be a problem. The tone for clean has got to be the best I’ve ever heard.
Sonic evaluation:
I have 2 ways of playing,
Guitar->Boss MT2->DS1->OS2->Digitech RP200->Yamaha660>2 Peavey TLS4 + 2 CGM 1×12’s
Or..
…->effects->Peavey MP4->Radio shack 1×10-miced into-Yamaha660…
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play lots of hard Rock, mostly lead. I’d say it’s a very good pickup for that style.
Model of guitar or bass:
Mexican Fat Strat Deluxe.
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
tex mex humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
single coil
Artists using this pickup:
wish i knew
You musical style(s):
blues, hard, classic rock.
Reason for pickup change:
a change.
Pickup features:
HUMBUCKING
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
not as hot as a PAF
Tone:
middy-balanced, harmonic sensitive
Sonic evaluation:
Playing this over a peavey is sweet, but again it does not have
the bite and sustain that I was looking for.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Fat Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Company’s humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
origanal Fender pickups
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck of course
You musical style(s):
everything
Reason for pickup change:
Company’s humbucker wasn’t very verstaille
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Really quiet when distorted or clean
Tone:
Really crunchy when distorted and mellow and punchy when clean
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a Fender Prinston Chorus, and other weird little pedals
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is good for just about anything
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter C1 Classic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncans – 59
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Funk / Nu-Metal / Rock / R&B / Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Guitar came stocked with Seymour Duncans! Not going to change this bad-boy for nothing! Both pickups (JB & 59) have a gold plated cover.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
High output with trebly sound that is still has a dark warm fat sound
Tone:
Trebly and thick
Sonic evaluation:
As Stated…C1 Classic through a Marshall AVT 2000 100watt. Match made in heaven! Very pleased with this combination. And most important is the coils are tapped! Which helps give me a single coil sound.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Styles are mentioned aboved – but with the right amp and guitar, I feel this pickup and it’s configuration suits my style. When play play through half (tapped) the coil though good, but not quite a “strat” sound which I need for funk.
Model of guitar or bass:
epiphone les paul classic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock epiphone humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
seymour duncan 59 model
Artists using this pickup:
joe fuckin perry (aerosmith) ,jeff beck
You musical style(s):
classic rock/ blues
Reason for pickup change:
stock pups were too muddy and lacked clarity.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
very hot, but not a metal pickup, same output as the epiphone pups but sound 100% better
Tone:
trebly like a bridge humbucker should be but still plenty of tone,well balanced
Sonic evaluation:
a marshall mg30rcd 2×15 watt solid state. this pickup has alot of tone with a combination of a heavier gauge set of strings(10’s or 11’s)couldnt ask for more tone and clarity. I was able to turn the gain on my amp up more and get more sustain and tone.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
it is a great match until i buy a tube amp
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson RR1T
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
dimarzio tone zone’s
Other pickups on guitar:
my combination is SH-4/TB-4
Artists using this pickup:
i have no idea.
You musical style(s):
from Hard Rock to Death Metal
Reason for pickup change:
dimarzio’s suck.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
www.seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
medium
Tone:
very well balanced, quite trebly with tight bass.
Sonic evaluation:
Jackson RR1T, Marshall vs 120/120, Marshall 1960, Line 6 POD.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play mostly metal. some blues.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Sheraton II
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Epiphone 57 CH bridge (std pickup)
Other pickups on guitar:
Epiphone 57 CH neck
Artists using this pickup:
Dunno
You musical style(s):
Rock, blues
Reason for pickup change:
Insufficient output of Epiphone, not enough bite and definition
Pickup features:
humbicking passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
A little more than normal, but not too much so, does not overpower neck pu
Tone:
clear well defined balanced, bite
Sonic evaluation:
Peavey Bandit 112 latest edition, no other effects. This pickup/guitair combination has a very clear (so not muddy) distortion tone through the Bandit, excellent for soloing. It sounds a bit like Gary More on Stormy Monday. Compared to stock it has much more definition, I don’t have to work the guitar so hard to get a good sound. I have a Fender with DiMarzio Evolution which also sounds very good, but quite different character, the Jeff Beck sounds a bit more refined and less loud (much less output). Due to pu position closer to bridge on the Sheraton (is a 335 copy) there is quite a bit of treble and bite.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock, blues. Probably suitable for many styles, but not thrash, metal etc.
Model of guitar or bass:
AM STRAT, IBANEZ
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
STOCK
Other pickups on guitar:
STOCK
Artists using this pickup:
LOTS
You musical style(s):
ANYTHING THATS WORTH PLAYING! CLASSIC ROCK (RUSH, ETC…)
Reason for pickup change:
NEEDED BETTER TONE & RESPONCE
Pickup features:
PASSIVE HUMBUCKER
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
PICK SOFTLY=CLEAN——- PICK AGGRESIVE=DISTORT
Tone:
PERFECT……BEUTIFUL. I HAVE ADDED THIS TO MOST OF MY GUITARS
Sonic evaluation:
AM STRAT,IBANEZ THRU BOSS EFFECTS =MESA BOOGIE SINGLE RECTIFIER. THIS IS ONE HELL OF A MATCH. VERY MUSICAL….
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
ROCK, SOUTHERN ROCK, COUNTRY. DOES IT ALL VERY VERY WELL
Model of guitar or bass:
1976 Les Paul Deluxe
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Gibson Bridge pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Gibson Neck pickup
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Metal, Blues
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted higher output with less microphonic feed back.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
16K Plus Dual Ceramic Magnets
Perceived output level:
Hot! 16K plus on my meter.
Tone:
Crunchy and bright with great sustain. With distortion and a bit of volume you can slide you finger up and down the low E string and get those Ted Nugent feedback sounds,(Think of the solo on “Stormtroopin” from Double Live Gonzo). Great for duplicating Pete Townsend’s Les Paul Deluxe era sounds. If Pete were still using Deluxes I would bet he would love this pickup in the bridge.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a 76 Les Paul Deluxe into various Ampeg tube amps,(V4s, a VL1002, Jet and Reverborocket Reissues). Except for the VL1002 I use Pro Co Rat pedals, an Electroharmonix Big Muff Reissue, or a MXR Doubleshot Distortion. The best sound combination to my ears is the Deluxe into an early Rat-2(with the LM308 chip) into an earlier non master volume V4 with (2) 4×12 matching cabinets. All you idiots who are thinking of routing a stock Les Paul Deluxe should get the Dimarzio DP209 P90 Super Distortion(My review on that to come) if you want your Deluxe to come close to a standard. This pickup has given me a the want to “PICKUP MY GUITAR AND PLAY” and has made me into a Les Paul Deluxe believer! For another review on what I believe is to be the same pickup go to: http://www.harmony-central.com/Guitar/Data2/Seymour_Duncan/Custom-Mini-Humbucker-01.html
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a variety of music from blues to hard rock to metal and I feel this pickup does overdriven blues and hard rock leads well very. What this pickup does best is the crunchy well defined chords you can get from an overdriven or clean sounding tube amp with a good distortion pedal. Every note cuts thru the mix. So all of you ski cap wearing, skateboard riding, 7 string drop D tuning Ibanez playing, body piercing pukes out there with your modeling amps should try out a Les Paul Deluxe with this pickup along with a good tube amp and a good distortion pedal! Whoaahhhh!
Model of guitar or bass:
‘97 Washburn P-2 QS
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Washburn 623
Other pickups on guitar:
SH-1n
Artists using this pickup:
Quite a few
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Rock, Progressive Instrumental Rock, Old School metal
Reason for pickup change:
Hated the stock pickups
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
4 conductor wiring; according to SD “PAF on steroids”
Perceived output level:
More output than a PAF
Tone:
Pretty balanced all together I think
Sonic evaluation:
Line 6 PODxt with amp packs installed going into a Mackie 1202-VLZ Pro which goes into a Layla3G for recording into my DAW.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Progressive Instrumental Rock and old school metal; I use it in the bridge
Model of guitar or bass:
Hamer Sunburst Flametop
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock Hamer
Other pickups on guitar:
stock Hamer
Artists using this pickup:
Dan Hawkins of The Darkness (?)
You musical style(s):
all kinds of rock
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Hamer in the bridge was too thin and neutral, output too low for the bridge. It works for the neck pickup, but I want to rock with the bridge.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
http://www.seymourduncan.com/website/tonechart.shtml scroll down halfway
Perceived output level:
Pretty high output, comprable to most ceramic pickups, I’d say on par with the Distortion
Tone:
Balanced, the site says slight mid scoop. Very loud and ballsy.
Sonic evaluation:
Using my Hamer Sunburst (cross between a LP and a PRS I guess) and my Traynor YCV80 (80 watt 2×12 6L6 combo), it is the best humbucker I have played through this amp and makes the best drive sounds through any setup I have played. Clean sounds are not the best using only this at the bridge, but it definitely works with the warmer stock in the neck when combined. Overdrive and distortion sounds from this and when combined with the neck are definitely a whole lot better.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Playing all kinds of rock from Van Halen to AC/DC to Metallica. It works the best for the first two, puts a mean twist on Metallica style riffage though that I like better. Sounds most like music with a Marshall amp though because of the mids.
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter Omen 7, ESP Ltd HB-300 baritone
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Duncan Designed Alnico-5 pick-ups
Other pickups on guitar:
SD SH2-N
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Jazz, metalcore
Reason for pickup change:
Stocks were too weak. Also, Alnico’s generally don’t befit my style.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
High output, but not over the top. SD doesn’t specify this, but I’d take a guess at around 380 mV.
Tone:
Rich, nice highs and lows, mid is somewhat scooped. SD claims it’s a ‘PAF on steroids’ and that’s exactly what it is.
Sonic evaluation:
Out of everything I have and have tried (Dimarzio Blaze, Tone Zone, Evolution, Air Norton, Super Distortion; SD Hotrails, Jazz, JB, Invader), this is by far my favorite pup. I’m rigged by Engl, Peavey, Marshall… all tube. Guitars vary fom the above to Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, Blaze and Godin.
So, what’s it like? Like I said above, PAF on steroids. For those of you who don’t know what a PAF sounds like: like loudness switched on on your hifi amp. Mids are somewhat scooped but give just enough presence to cut through. The tone is rich – but thankfully not too rich (like EMG) so it’s still easily mixable and doesn’t go squealing on the first yank on your amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play jazz and metalcore, but you can use it for any style, in any position. Chances are that the tone gets too rich in the neck position but I never tried it. It’s my perfect pup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Washburn PS 500
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Washburn 600
Other pickups on guitar:
Washburn
Artists using this pickup:
Unknown
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Sound
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
Balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 401
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great match for Hard Rock
Model of guitar or bass:
J&D Bobo1
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
SH2 Jazz Model Neck – SH1 59′ Model – middle
Artists using this pickup:
…can I say me?.. :^)
You musical style(s):
All kind of styles- Country to new metal
Reason for pickup change:
I don?t even try the stock pickups.. but the sound of this seymours is the
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
visit seymour’s site.. all information is there
Perceived output level:
hot.. It will distort you amp very easy… :^)
Tone:
Balanced.. singing tone.. full..
Sonic evaluation:
sh5 and a alder/maple body guitar.. Digitech 2120 Preamp/valve..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
All of Kind of stuff.. can be sweet and a beast..
Model of guitar or bass:
ESP/LTD ec300
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
EMG HZ toneless crap
Other pickups on guitar:
EMG HZ even more toneless, crap (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
not too sure. I’ve heard rumors of Mark Morton
You musical style(s):
death/thrash/classical/ w. a pinch of metalcore (not emo)
Reason for pickup change:
EMG hz H-1 aren’t exactly known for their superior tonal capabilities.
Pickup features:
it gets my newspaper in the morning. now that’s obedience.
Impedence or other specs:
no idea
Perceived output level:
Definately hotter than the HZ, not as hot as the invader i had in a washburn.
Tone:
it definately has a wee scoop to it.
Sonic evaluation:
I run the EC straight into a Randall RH100 halfstack, with a seven band EQ in the loop. I really like the sound it produces. Thick, pure metal when distorted (think slayer, Lamb of God), but it also cleans up good n’ bright. Pinch harmonics are beautiful. It sounds a bit flabby, but that is completely my fault for tuning to B standard with 10-52 strings on a gibson scale (24 3/4) guitar.
When tuned standard, it has an excellent sabbath/ac/dc/maiden tone to it. so nice.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
My style is something around Nile/slayer/At the gates/unearth, with some classical. it is a good match, and can do just about any genre/style.
Model of guitar or bass:
esp ltd mc-500 or ltd v-100
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
duncan design hb103b and stock ltd-100
Other pickups on guitar:
refuse to use.
Artists using this pickup:
SHAFT!
You musical style(s):
hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
duncan custom is hot shit.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
www.seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
hottest loudest passive pickup ever heard
Tone:
classic PAF but BIGGA. slightly scooped mid, hot bass and treble output.
Sonic evaluation:
i use solid and bolt on, string thru body guitars, long scale for death tones. this is huge on clean and punches holes in the wall when distorted, i use ampeg/fender/orange, marshall solid state (mg250dfx), then use boss md-2 mega distortion to build on that. simplicity can turn the nicest clean amp into a weapon.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
this is great for any music that needs to be LOUD, CLEAN or DISTORTED.
Model of guitar or bass:
RGT42
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
INF2
Other pickups on guitar:
INF1
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Everything rock.
Reason for pickup change:
I had never used anything other than stock in my guitar and I wanted to try a replacement. Awfully glad I did.
Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Very hot pickup. But not crazy hot.
Tone:
There seem to be quite a bit of mids in this thing which I like. The sound is very defined. Not muddy at all. The more I use this pickup, the more I like it.
Sonic evaluation:
Custom Morley Wah->Compressor->Genesis 3->Crate GX900->Fender cab with 4 celestions.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a lot of metal and older rock and punk. Basically whatever rocks. This pickup suits all of these styles perfectly.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Fat Strat deluxe
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Dh 1 humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
fender noiseless
Artists using this pickup:
?hm don’t care and don’t know
You musical style(s):
from punk to heavy rock and metal
Reason for pickup change:
I needed a pickup with more punch and dynamic as well as tone and clarity. I know it’s sound like the discription on those official sites but it’s true;) I don’t like those super hot output metal humbuckers and this was the right choice for a not to high gain moderate flowing sound with lots of tone!
Pickup features:
standard passive humbucker, no use of single coil at bridge
Impedence or other specs:
http://www.seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
not too less and not too much, really moderate. more than the hot rails for example but definitely less than ultra
Tone:
mass of tone that’s right!
Sonic evaluation:
i play through a mesa boogie quad preamp and a peavey classic 60/60 by using an intellifex ltd. 4×12 hughes&kettner attax cabinet but an old, heavier one. fender because i think HSS is the best for my playing agressiv distorted but not willing to lose dynamic by playing clean.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
punkrock! rock and 4 sure punkrock and metal and have i mentioned punkrock? ok keep it going, it has to rock…it fits!!
Model of guitar or bass:
ESP LTD VB-300 Baritone
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
EMG 81
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan SH-14 Custom 5
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know, don’t care
You musical style(s):
Rock, Metal, Alternative, Punk, Emo, Jazz, Blues, Gothic, Industrial
Reason for pickup change:
EMGs are great if you want to play metal, but that’s about all they really sounded good with. They produced the same blistering tone no matter what it was I was going after.
Pickup features:
Humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
see www.seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
Hotter than stock EMG-HZ pickups, but not as hot as active EMGs
Tone:
It’s a downtuned/baritone player’s dream. Plenty of bass, articulate highs and mids.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a heavily modified Fender Hot Rod Deluxe Amp (KT-66 power tubes, Chinese Grey-plate 12AX7s, and a Celestion Vintage 30, a Fender Bassman 100 Silverface head w/ a Hartke 2×10 or Marshall 4×10, and a Line 6 POD 2.0. It sounds really good with these setups. I don’t really use pedals except for Flange or Phase sounds, so that doesn’t affect my tone. This pickup is very deep and authorative in tone, and I’ve paired it up with a bright Custom 5 in the bridge. It’s a deadly combination, especially considering I installed dual coil-taps.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Didn’t I cover this already?
Model of guitar or bass:
Anderson Classic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
rio grande BBQ
Other pickups on guitar:
Lindy Fralin single coils
Artists using this pickup:
no idea
You musical style(s):
varied…rock, metal, grunge, shred, etc
Reason for pickup change:
other guitarist in band using the same pickup—rigs are sound too close EQ-wise.
Pickup features:
passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
hot, but not too hot
Tone:
balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Swamp ash Anderson guitar->bogner 101b->4×12. This pickup definitely has dry percussive attack. Fairly even EQ but with accentuated highs and some added mids.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
excellent match for rock…gets a decent clean tone too.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Standard Double Cutaway Plus (AAA flame top)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 498T
Other pickups on guitar:
vintage great old Seymour Duncan SH-1 (’ 59 model ) pickup
Artists using this pickup:
me : PP (maybe somebody i will be famous too)
You musical style(s):
Blues, Jazz , all kind of Rock and Metal
Reason for pickup change:
This is my third Seymour Duncan pickups
i love Seymour Duncan pickup, sound is the best !!
i hope that i can get more punch, smooth and great tone
from Seymour Duncan pickup.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
plz review the Seymour Duncan office website
Perceived output level:
more punch and brighter than a Gibson 498T pickup , be’ coz SH-5 is made of ceramic
Tone:
great balanced !!!! i love this pickup, it is better than SH-6 Duncan Distortion and SH-4 JB model
Sonic evaluation:
Sansamp- PSA-1 pre-amp , Sansamp- GT-2
Johnson Amplification- J-station direct recording pre-amp
Crown or H|H power Amplifier with H&K 1X15″ speakers
Marshall JCM 800 lead series stack amplifier with 1X10″ cabinet
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
SH-4 is good for Blues, Jazz , Rock and Metal ! It will make your guitar singing like a bird and it is recommended for bridge position
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha PAC112
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
a stock single coil in middle, and a Dimarzio FS-1 in neck
Artists using this pickup:
alot of people
You musical style(s):
punk, ska, rock, blues
Reason for pickup change:
not enough power or definition in the stock pup
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
medium high output, perfect sound for me
Tone:
i got this one cause i had a higher frequency than the stock one, its got a nice trebly sound to it, but can sound big if you turn the tone down
Sonic evaluation:
i’m using it on my pacifica h-s-s, straight into a Fender princeton chorus
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
awsome for bridge position, perfect for what i play, tight enough for upbeat ska , powerfull enough for rock/punk, i play bands like New Found Glory, Sublime, MXPX, Green Day, Blink 192, some random blues stuff
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez GRX 20
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan ‘59 model
Artists using this pickup:
Spakko Munkle
You musical style(s):
Classic rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups were too bright and lacking in definition. Apart from that, they were fine. (haha)
Pickup features:
pasive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I remember a number near 15
Perceived output level:
Same as the stock or near to it. Works with the “vintage output” (?) ‘59 model.
Tone:
It had ENOUGH of bass and mids, but too bright for me. They just overpowered the rest of the tone.
Sonic evaluation:
Ibanez GRX 20 (alder body) through a Boss DS-1 pedal into either a Yamaha (ready for this?) Clavinova CLP-860 (a huge electric piano that costs $3000 so its got a halfway decent built-in amp) or a Rotel RA-1000 (amps marketed for solely guitar use are really overpriced, but they’re all basically the same). The Rotel gives a much better tone than the Yamaha, so I’m going to base the review off of that.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play classic rock (blues-based stuff) like Led Zeppelin, and when used with the ‘59 in the neck it’s fine. Sounds great, But alone, it is just too bright. Even turning the tone down, I cant get rid of the highs and have some clarity. So I guess it’s allright half the time. For position, I’ve only tried it in the bridge but that’s because it says to use it in the bridge on the box. I would assume that there is a reason, but some people like to try out different things, so I can’t really comment on that.
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha pacifica
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
di marzio paf pro
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
Maurizio Solieri (Vasco)
You musical style(s):
rock, hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
i need more sustain and attack
Pickup features:
humbucker passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
slightly more than stock, less than paf pro
Tone:
CLEEEEEAN, VERY BRIGHT, NEVER SHRILL OR MUDDY, WELL BALANCED
Sonic evaluation:
MARSHALL JCM 900 100W HEAD, MARSHALL VALVESTATE 8080, NO EFFECTS
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
PERFECT FOR ROCK TO METAL, VERY VERSATILE
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez Ergodyne EDR260
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Ibanez Powersound
Other pickups on guitar:
Ibanez Powersound single coils
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t Know
You musical style(s):
Emo-core,Hardcore and Alternative Music
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pickup was a bit too harsh, too much trebles and the sound wasn’t as clear as I wanted to.
Pickup features:
Humbucking, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know and don’t care
Perceived output level:
Hot, a bit less than stock pickups but much more powerful and surely brighter
Tone:
Very balanced tone, good basses, as well as very crunchy
Sonic evaluation:
I’m Using my Ibanez Ergodyne through a Marshall Vs 100 connected with a Dunlop Cry Baby wha and a Danelectro Fab Tone Fuzz. I also use sometimes an Ibanez chorus/flanger and a Marshall tremolo.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It’s a very good match for every kind of music I think, It’s usable on clean sounds as well as very distorted settings. It’s just perfect for the variety of music that I play.
Model of guitar or bass:
1981 Gibson Les Paul Custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan ‘59 (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know
You musical style(s):
Everything and Anything
Reason for pickup change:
Tired of the weak stock crap, plus wanted a Zebra pup for cosmetic reasons.
Pickup features:
4 conductor – Zebra – Bridge
Impedence or other specs:
Check the site
Perceived output level:
Not as hot as the Distortion or JB
Tone:
Perfect! Tight low end, excellent mids and treble without the shrill of the JB
Sonic evaluation:
Use in 81 LP Custom with Boss GT-3 and Crate half stack.
This pickup is the best bridge Duncan makes (in my opinion). I tried the Distortion (too rough) and the JB (can someone say “nails down the chalkboard?).
The JB was just to much high end and couldn’t get good variety out of the pup. Used the 21 day exchange and took the Duncan reps advice and got the Custom and it blows the JB away. Perfect match for a Les Paul if you ask me.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
All kinds of stuff, which is why it’s important for me to have sonic variety
Model of guitar or bass:
cheap squier affinity series strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
crap stock fender singlecoil
Other pickups on guitar:
more fender single coils
Artists using this pickup:
H from steps
You musical style(s):
old metal
Reason for pickup change:
wanted to be able to play for longer than 10 minutes without getting a headache from the nails-down-a-chalkboard fender single coils.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
its all on the web site
Perceived output level:
warm self confident glow
Tone:
loads of bass response alright mid and quite good highs
Sonic evaluation:
my cheapo strat with a peavey 5150 half stack and peavey rage 158 practice amp.someone earlier mentioned how hot the pickup was and that he was using a 5150 II. this is probably because of the stupid amount of gain that the 5150s have.with my practice amp it doesnt sound overly hot but has a much better tone, has amazing clarity and doesnt have that stupid hum. this pickup is mint. it is versatile enough for me to never really use the other pickups much. is amazing clean aswell.i was thinking about getting an EMG but then thought that my sound would be too computer generated and i would sound just like every other tommy iommi wannabe.with this pickup you want to set it no higher than the pickguard to get the most punch out of the bass.for pretty much everything this pickup sounds good. i dont understand the “this pickup wont do the pussy country and jazz shit”.
Refocus all your anger towards the real pussies:papa roach,slipnot,limp dipshit and the like. i could have been in papa roach after playing guitar for a week.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
probably a mix between fugazi, sabbath, bigwig etc because i listen to them alot. i dont try to copy though.
Model of guitar or bass:
ESP LTF M-300
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
EMG-HZ
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock HZ in neck…being replaced with a ‘59 soon
Artists using this pickup:
Any with a good ear for tone
You musical style(s):
Prog metal, hard rock, my own unique style
Reason for pickup change:
The HZ’s are muddy when dirty, and just plain ugly when clean.
Pickup features:
Humbucking, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hotter than the HZ’s, and hotter than a JB
Tone:
Much more bass than the stock pickups, but not muddy at all! Somewhat middy with great articulation
Sonic evaluation:
I use this through a 5150 II half stack with a little delay in the loop, but my Egnater MICA TOL 100 should arive soon, so I will update you on the tone though that amp!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It is a good match for just about any style that isn’t country
Model of guitar or bass:
WARMOTH STRAT with floyd rose
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
JB
Other pickups on guitar:
duncan 59
Artists using this pickup:
Does not matter
You musical style(s):
rock and metal,fusion,80’s lead shreding
Reason for pickup change:
I used the JB for a long time and liked it but i was always after a real hot paf tone which the JB did not get.
Pickup features:
PASSIVE HUMBUCKER
Impedence or other specs:
14k
Perceived output level:
Hot enough,hotter than the JB, a little less than the distortion model
Tone:
Ballsy and very balanced and very articulate!
Sonic evaluation:
Running through a Mesa stack with a warmoth strat and some effects(slight chorus,reverb)this pickup is a god send!It has a TONE just as duncan described (LOUD AND PROUD PAF ON STERIODS!)
picture a 59′model that went to the gym everyday for a year or two!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play varied styles and this pickup suites all of them,even though it is considered a high output pickup it cleans up great
Model of guitar or bass:
ESP: LTD Viper 300
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
EMG-HZ
Other pickups on guitar:
EMG-HZ
Artists using this pickup:
dont know
You musical style(s):
Metal, rock
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted good tone, didn’t have any desire for muddy sounds!
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
no clue
Perceived output level:
very hot!!
Tone:
Balanced, has plenty of bass and highs with enough mids but not blownin u away w/ the mid.
Sonic evaluation:
Crate GFX-212 (lookin for a good amp head) into a marshall JCM900 1960A cab. Morley Bad horsie… yeah that’s it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play metal and rock. It’s got great lead tones, does palm muted tone great. Roll back the volume and it gives perfect crunch. It’s a bridge pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ernie Ball Music Man Sillouette “fat strat” style
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Standard Dimarzio
Other pickups on guitar:
lil’ 59’s in neck and middle
Artists using this pickup:
Davey Johnstone (Elton John Band)
You musical style(s):
Lite Rock & Progressive Jazz/Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The Dimarzio wasn’t all that bad, but I just wanted a change.
Pickup features:
passive four wire humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Too hot, it overdrives my amp hard.
Tone:
Hi-Gain, useless to me. I was expecting a lower gain than this. It pushes the clean side of my to a very harsh distortion (al’a Randy Rhaods “Crazy Train”).
Sonic evaluation:
The pickup is in a great Music Man guitar, the best “strat” I’ve ever played! I run it though a Budda SD30, my effects make no difference. It is very harsh on the clean side, the overdrive isn’t bad, but you can tell Davey Johnstone uses it on “Staurday Nights Alright for Fighting” on the newer cuts of the song. I bought this pickup in hopes to find a versital tone, I found the exact opposite with this and the lil’ 59’s.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play rock in all of it’s forms, but I mainly play lite rock (Matchbox 20, The Wallflowers, U2, Fastball) and some times jazz or latin. This pickup is not for these kinds of music. It would work fine for metal and punk, two styles I have grown to hate.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul, Schecter C-1+
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan JB (Epi LP), Duncan Design DD-103B JB copy (Schecter)
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Alnico II Pro (Epi LP), Duncan Design DD-103N 59 copy (Schecter)
Artists using this pickup:
Dave Mustaine, Jason Becker, Davey Johnstone,
You musical style(s):
progressive rock/metal (imagine a mid-air collision between Queen, Dream Theater, and Metallica)
Reason for pickup change:
The JBs were too nasal and didn’t have enough bass response
for my tastes. They were also practically unusuable clean.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
See http://www.seymourduncan.com/
Perceived output level:
comparable with a JB, slightly less than a Duncan Distortion
Tone:
a bit scooped, but not radically so; usable clean, whereas the JB is not
Sonic evaluation:
Both the Epi LP and the Schecter are used with either a Peavey Classic 50 2×12 or a Line 6 Flextone Duo, depending on the venue. I tune the LP to drop-D and the Schecter to standard tuning.
In the LP, the Custom is absolutely *perfect*. It’s got just the right EQ balance to bring the instrument to life, and it has usable tones for both clean, heavy crunch rhythm, and smooth lead playing.
In the Schecter (which is sort of a PRS McCarty clone), the Custom sounds good but not quite as good as in the LP. The pickup sounds a bit brighter and not quite as full as in the LP, although this is largely a function of the guitar body rather than the pickups.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
The Custom is a great and very versatile bridge pickup for rock and metal; it’s probably too bright for jazz and not twangy enough for country or blues
Model of guitar or bass:
‘99 Gibson Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 498-T
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan 59er Bridge in neck position
Artists using this pickup:
No clue
You musical style(s):
Mainstream Hard Rock and some Blues
Reason for pickup change:
498-T was loud, but has no character.
Pickup features:
Humbucking, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Apprx. 14K Ohms, Ceramic Magnet
Perceived output level:
This pickup is smokin’! It’s slightly more powerful than the 498-T and has balls to the walls!
Tone:
Beautifully balanced with a full bass yet having mid and upper range accent.
Sonic evaluation:
You know the guitar, the amp is a Fender Deluxe Reverb.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play “kick in the face” Rock. It is a phenominal pickup. It is not good for Jazz or Country stuff as they require wimpy pickups.
Model of guitar or bass:
Hamer Sunburst Archtop
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
DD103-B (Duncan Designed Import of the ‘59 model)
Other pickups on guitar:
DD103-N
Artists using this pickup:
J, Mustaine, and ME
You musical style(s):
Rock & HM
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more output, while keeping a PAFish sound.
Pickup features:
Humbucking, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
www.seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
Louder than a ‘59, quieter than a 500-T
Tone:
Less mids than 500-T, much more articulate and clear also.
Sonic evaluation:
Big chunk of mahogany with a slab of flame maple on top into a “essence of MARSHALL” CRATE VC tube amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Versitile.
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha Pacifica 102S
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio “Twang King” (a good tele single coil bridge pickup, BTW!)
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender Texas Special Tele Neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
light rock to death/grindcore and anything in between
Reason for pickup change:
As much as I did like the Twang King in the bridge, I changed my mind and wanted to make it a Satriani-lead sounding guitar.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
http://www.seymourduncan.com/humbuckersdescr.html#DuncanCustom153
Perceived output level:
Fairly hot (same as the JB for output)
Tone:
strong lower midrange, nice bass, not trebly.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Line 6 AX2. I have also run this through some Boogies (rectifier series amps–they sound great!) A friend of mine uses this with a JCM 900 and that sounds pretty good with this pickup too.
Please see my review on the JB for general info on the sound of the pickup, since this does sound very similar in a lot of ways. The unique things I notice about this pickup are discussed in this review.
Where it does vary, however, is that it has a bit less bass and stronger, more focused mids that don’t sound nasal (for reference, a Dimarzio Super Distortion tends to sound a bit nasal.) In that way, it makes this an ideal pickup for Satriani style leads (moreso than the FRED, and I have owned a JS guitar and used one recently, so I have a good frame of reference.)
The powerful mids lend a lot of overtones late after the attack of the note, so you can milk notes and listen to them change as you give a bit of vibrato. It also helps when trying to get some controlled feedback while a note trails off. Just superb. Distorted rythm has a good howl to it–nice and strong. As for harmonics, it works well. The JB is much better for pinch harmonics, though.
As with the JB, installing a series/parallel switch is worth your while on this pickup. It can sound like a nice, powerful single coil in parallel, and that’s always a nice change of pace especially when trying clean sounds.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Works very well. I prefer to do more leads than rythm with this, but only because my other guitar has a JB in it. I can always get a nice sound out of this (or the JB) by playing with my selections or volume control.
Model of guitar or bass:
Japanese Tele
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
none – just experimenting
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Hot Tele Lead (tapped)
Artists using this pickup:
In the neck position of a Tele? Probably none
You musical style(s):
rock, blue, southern rock, pop
Reason for pickup change:
I like to try differnt pickups, just a hobby
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
14.1 K
Perceived output level:
Very hot and clear.
Tone:
In humbucking mode, the tone is very middy, not too bassy, with just enough highs for clear single not runs. Not as sweet as a PAF at moderate overdrive. In single coil mode,the tone is clear, bright, and throaty, much more so than a strat pickup, but not quite as smooth. Good quack and response to different playing styles
Sonic evaluation:
Japanese Tele through a BOSS BluesDriver into a Crate 30W amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
With it wired to a three way toggle for series/single/parallel, it covers most blues, rock, and pop styles. It is hot enough for metal chords.
Model of guitar or bass:
Custom Built V.Rautia
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Sh-6 Distortion
Other pickups on guitar:
Sh-1 Pearly Gates on neck
Artists using this pickup:
Dave Mustaine
You musical style(s):
junk
Reason for pickup change:
For my dear and loved guitar, which was custom built for me only, I wanted the best, and I got the best!!…
Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Enough, I think it?s about hot as JB
Tone:
Balanced, and clear.
Sonic evaluation:
Marshall DSL-100 and Flextone XL (and Marshall valvestate )
It has colors, and kick. After replacing from mega-hot Distortion model, I was happy to hear, that altough this has less output, it kicks more ass. I think this has a bit more mid than SH-6. Those little (use the force) things, that lie beneath all this stuff. It?s almost invisible, but it?s there. Hippie… Has bite and raunch.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Pounding like maniac, speed of light heavy shit, radio pop, slow stuff…
Model of guitar or bass:
Strat copy
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Duckbucker in middle, Dimarzio fast track 1 in neck
Artists using this pickup:
Me? haha
You musical style(s):
Rock, blues rock and contemporary praise and worship
Reason for pickup change:
I needed some good distorted rhythm tones frm this guitar. Stocks don’t quite provide it.
Pickup features:
Single coil passive.
Impedence or other specs:
14k? Hot for strat is what it is
Perceived output level:
Hot. About the same output as stock epiphone pickups(hope u adjust them well)
Tone:
Middy. slight single coil tone.
Sonic evaluation:
Alder bodied strat –> boss SD-2 –> other pedals. Marshall VS-15 miced into PA.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
80’s metal/rock, Blues rock, contemporary praise and worship. Its a good match. If u play country(too hot) ormodern metal(too low output).
Model of guitar or bass:
Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock fender junk
Other pickups on guitar:
duncan’s
Artists using this pickup:
who knows
You musical style(s):
rock, jazzy/fusion
Reason for pickup change:
out with old in with the new, can’t help myself, must rewire pretty much everything.
Pickup features:
SC
Impedence or other specs:
see website
Perceived output level:
For a SC, medium output
Tone:
Duct tape any glass in the studio, this thing will cut through it!
Sonic evaluation:
This was played through various duncan amp and a fender hot rod deluxe. This thing sounds like a pissed off SSL-1 but without the manners. I tried it in the bridge,middle and neck and now it resides in my closet in the studio. WAY to much mid for me. Having played the worlds sweetest SC (APS-1N) for 15 years prior to trying this one, it was nails on the chalk board. Uncontrolable in the bridge, can’t sing in the middle and out of control in the neck. An SSL-1/SSL-2 gives you better edge with tonal control and can take a lot of drive without blowing up, and the APS-1 is just too good to describe. This thing sounds like a bad, cheap stocker from a $200 strat copy.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
rock, jazz, fusion
Model of guitar or bass:
Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
Rio Grande
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
many
Reason for pickup change:
Needed less treble
Pickup features:
Hot single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hotter than stock but not excessively so
Tone:
MId-range focused
Sonic evaluation:
Using either Crate Vintage 50 head or Crate VFX 112 combo
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock, Country, Blues
Model of guitar or bass:
90′S AM.STRAT
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
SSL-1 PASSIVE
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
DONT KNOW
You musical style(s):
BLUES !BLUES AND MORE BLUES
Reason for pickup change:
I WANTED A FULL SOUND,ROUND AND THICK FOR RAW BLUES!
I CAN USE MY BELOVED STRAT AGAIN,IT DOES NOT ALTER THE
STRAT SOUND IT JUST GIVES IT SUPERB ROUNDNESS.
Pickup features:
SINGLE COIL PASSIVE
Impedence or other specs:
DO NOT KNOW!
Perceived output level:
EQUAL OR CLOSE TO MY 72 THINLINE REISSUE!
Tone:
CRUNCHY FANTASTIC ROUND MID’S
Sonic evaluation:
I AM USING A HR DELUXE WITH TS-9 REISSUE,S.DUNCAN PICK UP BOOSTER
FOR LEAD+ OCCASIONAL WAH.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I PLAY MAINLY BLUES
Model of guitar or bass:
1995 US strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
bridge: SD JB jr.
Other pickups on guitar:
neck, middle: stock fender
Artists using this pickup:
don’t know don’tcare
You musical style(s):
punk
Reason for pickup change:
JB sounded like shit. Wanted my strat to be a atrat again.
Pickup features:
passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Sounds real high output for a single coil.
Tone:
Middy, crunchy very balanced, especially the high end
Sonic evaluation:
Strat through a Fender Deville 212. Real hot sounding. Drives real nice and smooth. Very responsive. Maintains character of the guitar and my shitty playing.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Punk
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Stratocaster (MIM)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock Fender
Other pickups on guitar:
APS-II at neck, Yamaha single coil in middle
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
classic rock
Reason for pickup change:
original Fender pickup was ear-piercingly bright especially through the small Marshall speaker. I wanted a fuller sound with a bit more punch
Pickup features:
single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
noticeably hotter than the stock pickup
Tone:
bright and punchy with a moderately scooped tone that has hints of humbucker.
Sonic evaluation:
I play this through a Marshall MG 15 watt practice amp and a Traynor Custom Valve 40 watt. This pickup is like good scotch, smooth and flavourful with the volume rolled off but has a nasty sting when cranked. Will sing very sweetly with some overdrive and give up some great pinched harmonic squealing.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Last century?s classic rock, Hendrix, Clapton etc.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Lead II
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Fender Lead II (1979)
Other pickups on guitar:
All are SSL-3 now
Artists using this pickup:
Unknown
You musical style(s):
Blues / Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups were bass heavy in response – and muddy when driven hard. Couldn’t get good clean mid-range to cut over drums in the mix.
Pickup features:
Single Coil / Passive
Impedence or other specs:
DC Resistance 16K
Perceived output level:
Clearly more than Stock Fender pickup
Tone:
Very articulate – each string balanced – midrange response is great – treble is glassy but not dominating – very nice.
Sonic evaluation:
Guitar – Fender Lead II (1979) restored. These were nothing special guitars, 25.5 inch scale, bolt on maple neck, swamp ash body, string through strings with hardtail bridge with an awful black urethane finish. This guitar was stripped down to bare wood, stained translucent blue with a “sanded sunburst” front and black – then sealed with danish oil – very beautiful. Electronics were modified to allow each single coil (one neck, one bridge) to be in phase or out of phase in either parallel or series. A StewMac “black ice” passive overdrive was installed in parallel with stock tone control with a switch to select between the two styles of tone control. Amp is a Crate Blue Voodoo and a small crate practice amp – no effects.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues / Rock. This pickup works in any position
Model of guitar or bass:
Mid 90’s Strat Plus
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Carvin AP11, Dimarzio SDS-1, Duncan ALnico II, Fender Jap pickup, SD Hot rails…Lace sensors…Ive tried them all…
Other pickups on guitar:
2 Mid 80’s Japanese Strat Single coils
Artists using this pickup:
None that I know of
You musical style(s):
Rock
Reason for pickup change:
I’ve been on a long search for a great bridge pickups for a strat. I was looking for something that sounded thick AND bright AND crunchy: kinda like 75% P-90, 25% Strat. I’ve tried every lace sensor…They suck bigtime. Ive tried Seymour Duncan Alnico II’s…nice and smooth, but not hot enough. I’ve tried SD Hot rails…great sound, but its not a strat at all. The Dimarzio SDS-1 sounded pretty good, like a nice P-90, but it squealed with lots of overdrive. I thought the Carvin would sound great, but it was flabby and thin. Not enough output. So, in desperation, i ordered a SD hot.
Pickup features:
Single Coil, very high output, passive, untapped
Impedence or other specs:
Mine reads 15.6k (real high compared to a normal 6-7k strat)
Perceived output level:
About twice as loud as any other single coil I’ve played.
Tone:
Tons of midrange, warm bottom, smooth (but not dull) highs. My best explanation is 75% P-90, 25% strat.
Sonic evaluation:
I play a strat thru a GREAT carvin x100B halfstack. The minute I plugged in I knew this was THE pickup I was looking for. It sounds very different from the other two Single coils in my guitar. Its not as glassy. It has way more mids, more punch, more output, more BALLS. It can be very funky if need be. To me, its THE perfect Rock bridge pickup for a strat.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
If a regular single coil just doesnt cut it for rock music, but a humbucker would be TOO much, this is IT!
Model of guitar or bass:
1988 Fender American Standard Stratocaster
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Hot Rails in Bridge and neck positions
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues,Classic Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup didn’t have enough power to compete with the Hot rails.
Pickup features:
single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hot,as much as the Hot Rails
Tone:
Bassy,not too much treble…..just right for me
Sonic evaluation:
I use tube amps,tube screamer,Vox wah,Boss effects.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Perfect match for the Hot Rails and me.
Model of guitar or bass:
JOE GLASER STRAT
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
NONE
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
STEVE WARINER,RICKY SKAGGS,BRENT MASON
You musical style(s):
COUNTRY
Reason for pickup change:
SOUND
Pickup features:
SINGLE COIL PASSIVE
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
HOTTER AND GREAT TONE. A RATING OF 10
Tone:
BALANCED WITH NICE TONE IN BASS STRINGS D,A,E RAITING 10
Sonic evaluation:
TWO PEAVEY SPECIAL 130S WITH JOE GLASER BENDER STRAT GUITAR AND DIGITECH LEGEND PROCESSOR.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
COUNTRY AND ROCK,YES,MIDDLE AND BRIDGE
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Lone Star with a Performance Custom Neck
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
DiMarzio HS3
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Custom Custom in the Neck and Bridge
Artists using this pickup:
???
You musical style(s):
Jazz/Rock influenced Blues
Reason for pickup change:
The Dimarzio HS3 was too subtle in the middle position and did not give me the boner that I was seeking.
Pickup features:
Passive Hot Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
???
Perceived output level:
It’s a Hot single coil that just can’t wait to be overdriven. Nice mids and just enough bass and treble to keep it warm and cuddly. Screaming overdriven leads and nice clean faux spank when you wanna clean it up and get intimate.
Tone:
Nice and warm not too trebly. And not that ice pick in the cranium treble screech.
Sonic evaluation:
Weapons: Fender Lone Star with Performance Custom neck played through a Fender Hot Rod DeVille 2X12.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Jazz/Rock influenced Blues for a new Millennium
Model of guitar or bass:
Washburn D13
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Dean Markley ProMag Grand
Other pickups on guitar:
None.
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Folk, Blues, just about everything
Reason for pickup change:
The Markley just wasn’t clear enough. Wanted better but can’t afford new guitar with all the neat electronics on board.
Pickup features:
Single Coil passive magnetic
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Typical single coil. Maybe a touch less than the Markley but insignificantly so. Plenty of power.
Tone:
Balanced. Clear. Crisp. I Can’t believe how clean this sounds for the $$$. Watch for typical single-coil noise but hey that’s the tradeoff.
Sonic evaluation:
OK here goes. I tried it on a Ibanez Troubador acoustic amp in the store. Amazed. Got home and…ready?..Roland Micro Cube practice amp set on “acoustic” simulation, feeding a Crate GX80 guitar amp modified with two external speaker jacks. Into which are plugged my home stereo speakers. Ok go ahead and laugh. It’s what I had on hand and it sounds wonderful for the budget. Cant wait to get a proper acoustic amp. The pickup is much MUCH better than the Markley for clarity, string balance is as advertised. A purist might say it’s still not “acoustic” enough, fine. I compared directly to an Ovation, an Applause, and one other gtr in the store and found, sure, a new guitar sounds betterfor some things, not in others. I’m starting to discover all boosted acoustics (in my price range) compromise somewhere. On a budget ? Buy this pickup and give your old acoustic ax new life. Take the time to install the wire inside.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
A bit brittle for agressive picking but EQ can tune that. Picks up percussive thumps and lots of bottom end.Great for hybrid and finger styles.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender DG-7
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
folk-rock, rock, folk, bluegrass, country
Reason for pickup change:
no prior pickup on guitar, added Neo-D
Pickup features:
Single Coil – sound hole pickup
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
very low output level
Tone:
fantastic tone, balanced
Sonic evaluation:
I’ve put this through, Mesa Studio .22, Kustom 12A, Roland 120 Chorus into Randall 4×12, and various PA systems.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
…
Model of guitar or bass:
1970s Guild D-35
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
SIngle coil soundhole mount
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Balanced tone, very acoustic
Sonic evaluation:
I have not been pleased with most of the piezoelectric pickups I’ve tried; the bridge pickups tend to sound quacy, and the body pickups, muddy. This simple magnetic pickup has a very clear sound that really captues the acoustic sound of the guitar. I’ve used it on stage and was very pleased with it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock, Country, Folk
Model of guitar or bass:
Gretsh (dreadnaught)
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
First pickup on guitar
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Fingerstyle, Folk, “American Primative”
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
passive, single coil with neodymium magnets, 10′ cable terminating in 1/4″ plug
Impedence or other specs:
Don’t know
Perceived output level:
Output met my expectations for a passive pickup
Tone:
Very balanced, bright
Sonic evaluation:
I run through either an SWR workingman’s 10 or small eight-channel Peavey PA. I also have an ART acoustic fx/DI. When run straight into either system the tone is consistent with that of other single coil pickups. The unwound strings have a bright, mildly stratty sort of sound, but that is not to say that the bass strings are absent from the mix- a problem that I found with other pickups I evaluated before buying this one. (Lawrence FT 145, Markley Pro-Mag SC, Duncan Acoustic Tube) I found this pickup remakably shapable with the tools I have available. (The ART does a good job of warming it up a bit.)Like practically all magnetic systems, though, the tone comes off somewhat electric.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is a good match for acoustic blues or rock. I could see using it elsewhwere as well.
Model of guitar or bass:
Martin 000-15
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
i dunno
You musical style(s):
Christian praise/worship
Reason for pickup change:
No change; I just didn’t want to modify my guitar
Pickup features:
passive single coil soundhole p/u with 10ft. cable and 1/4″ plug
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
seems pretty hot for a passive P/U
Tone:
good balance with a slight brittleness on the treble end
Sonic evaluation:
I am playing a Martin 000-15 running through an Ampeg B100R Rocket Bass combo (100 watts) with the p/u plugged into “0″ passive input… This amp has a low-mid voicing that sounds quite nice with this p/u… I know you purists out there will think it crazy to use a bass amp but when I roll off some of the low & low-mids on the eq, it shapes well. I do mostly strummy type playing and it blends well with the nice grand piano that we have at church.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
works for what I’m doing
Model of guitar or bass:
Reedman NS-15
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
didn’t have one
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
I don’t know
You musical style(s):
punk, alt country, folk, emo
Reason for pickup change:
I’m doing an acoustic gig in a few days and wanted a pickup so I didn’t have to sit still in front of a mic.
Pickup features:
passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
unsure, look at www.fishman.com
Perceived output level:
hotter than other soundhole pickups I’ve tried
Tone:
pretty even. bright, but I’ve only played it through a fender combo at the store
Sonic evaluation:
I haven’t played it through a P.A. or my halfstack or anything yet, but I was pretty impressed with the way it sounded at the store. Crisp, even tone, albeit a little bright but that might’ve been the Fender combo I was playing through.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play punk, emo, alt country stuff on acoustic, but it’s prolly good for most styles, maybe not a good match for finger style playing
Model of guitar or bass:
Installed in an Ibanez JS1000
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio FRED (stock p/u on the JS series guitars)
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio PAF Pro in the neck position
Artists using this pickup:
This particular pickup….me, I dont lend my guitar to anyone!
You musical style(s):
I listen to mostly rock and metal, I play (poorly) Joe Sat / Dream Theatre style stuff, some thrash metal but mostly progressive rock
Reason for pickup change:
I could not pull the harmonics I wanted from the stock P/U. The Dimarzio FRED makes some cool tones, and is useful for lots of styles, but it simply didnt have the output or the clarity I wanted.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I actually have a degree in electrical engineering, and after 15 year playing guitar, I cant possibly imagine that the average guitarist is considering impedance when buying a pickup. Unless you build custom guitars from scratch, this info is kinda useless for most of us
Perceived output level:
Way hotter than the FRED pickup it replaced, not as driving as an X2N. Decent harmonics, great tone
Tone:
Lots of highs and mids, the bass is really clean but not over powering
Sonic evaluation:
Ibanez JS1000 with the action set way low. I plug in to a Mesa Engineering Solo50 head. From the head, I feed a dry line directly to a Mesa 4×12 black shadow cabinet. I take the slave output to a DOD 31 band EQ, that feeds a Digitech ValveFX, then into an ART SGE, finally into a Mosvalve 80Watt power amp which powers the wet line to another Mesa 4×12. So basically, full Mesa Boogie stack, half with effects, half without.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I am only using it in the bridge, so I have no idea where else it might work. Its a cool pickup for rock, havent done a lot of blues on it but with a tone knob you can pull it off no prob
Model of guitar or bass:
Installed in an Ibanez JS1000
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio FRED (stock p/u on the JS series guitars)
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio PAF Pro in the neck position
Artists using this pickup:
This particular pickup….me, I dont lend my guitar to anyone!
You musical style(s):
I listen to mostly rock and metal, I play (poorly) Joe Sat / Dream Theatre style stuff, some thrash metal but mostly progressive rock
Reason for pickup change:
I paid a lot of money for my JS1000, more than any other guitar I’ve owned. I was playing the intro to “Hot for teacher” last month and the tapped notes sounded like ass. I ran through some harmonics and decided it was time to finally butcher my pristine stock guitar. The FRED pickup it came with is fine for a lot of styles, and the tone was great for blues and low gain classic rock, but for metal and solos it kinda sucks
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I actually have a degree in electrical engineering, and after 15 year playing guitar, I cant possibly imagine what the average guitarist is considering impedance when buying a pickup. Unless you build custom guitars from scratch, this info is kinda useless for most of us
Perceived output level:
Way hotter than the FRED pickup it replaced, not as driving as an X2N. Decent harmonics, great tone
Tone:
Lots of highs and mids, the bass is really clean but not over powering
Sonic evaluation:
I am playing through a 5 year old Ibanez JS1000, stock except for the new pickup. Power is coming from a Mesa Engineering Solo 50 head. I run a dry line to a Mesa Boogie 4×12, and take the slave output to an effects rack (Digitech Valve FX and ART SGE) and power the wet signal with a Mosvalve 80×2 power amp…that feeds another Mesa Boogie 4×12. All disortion is the Mesa head, no dist from the FX. The sounds is completely kick ass. The old pickup sounded great, except when I wanted high gain and harmonics. I cranked the presence, treble, and gain on my head and still couldnt pull decent harmonics from that damn thing. The Demon pickup seemed to do the trick. I can get any sound out of it I have tried. (first test was Hot for teacher, it kicked ass) – for my clean sound I am sticking with the neck pickup, the Demon is kinda tinny on clean channel. I guess its ok for some stuff, but without a lot of effects, I didnt like it for accoustic rythms
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I am only using it in the bridge, so I have no idea where else it might work. Its a cool pickup for rock, havent done a lot of blues on it but with a tone knob you can pull it off no prob
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez rg470
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
v8 (stock)
Other pickups on guitar:
v7 neck, s1 middle
Artists using this pickup:
Lynch
You musical style(s):
Hard rock, Metal, Bach with disortion…
Reason for pickup change:
I needed inspiration! V8 is a good pickup and very good for my styles of playing, but damn… I just got bored playing with it, can`t say why.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Much more lower than the stock pickup. I even had to lower the neck pickup…
Tone:
Crispy… it isn`t a metal tone, but suitable for it also. Hard to describe, but let`s say that it is very alive, like your had a soul…
Sonic evaluation:
I use Korg Ax1000g. Sounds great!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good for Hard Rock, Perfect for disorted classical… Good all around pickup!
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG270
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan’s Vintage Rails (Middle), Duncan’s Full Shred (Neck)
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch
You musical style(s):
Blues and Rock Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
trying the george lynch musical style
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
10K
Perceived output level:
balanced and perfect…..wowwww!!
Tone:
Crunchy with plenty of highs and presence without being harsh (duncan’s word), its true!!.
Sonic evaluation:
i wired my pickup combinations to get different sounds by using 5 way 4 pole pickup switch. pos 1: both coil(Screamin Demon) in series, pos 2: first coil(screamin demon) with vintage rails(M)in parallel(strats sound), pos 3: first coil(screamin demon) with second coil(full shred)in parallel(teles sound), pos 4: vintage rails(M)with first coil(full shred)in parallel and pos 5: both coil(full shred)in series, all combinations are hum-cancelling. i tried this pickup through peavey amps with built-in distortion/overdrive, the sounds was great with distortion/clean, veryyyy sweet harmonics.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
greats for my music styles and gets everything with this pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson KE-2
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan JB
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan SH-2 Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
Uh hum…George Ly…do I have to say it.
You musical style(s):
METAL
Reason for pickup change:
The JB had no character.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucking. A row of allen screws and a row of flathead screws.
Impedence or other specs:
Check out the www.semourduncan.com for their tone chart
Perceived output level:
Slightly less than the JB, slightly more than ‘59 model
Tone:
One word! CRUNCHY
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Mesa Mark III amp with a Recto-cab and my Jackson KE-2. But I beleive this pickup has it’s own characteristics that are recognizable in any combination. I’ve played a Peavey XXX amp (also modeled for George Lynch) and I noticed that the amp’s voicing is somewhat similar to characteristics of the Screamin’ Demon…Lots of tight low end, scooped mids, very crunchy and it has that little SPIKE of a high end frequency that sticks out like a sore thumb (it’s not a bad thing, but that’s what makes the George Lynch sound recognizable). That SPIKE kind of gives the pickup a sort-of single-coil flavor. But the Screamin’ Demon is still a mean pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mostly metal. Lots of open chords and chuggin rhythms, and shredding leads.
Model of guitar or bass:
1976 Ibanez Destroyer
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Custom Custom
Other pickups on guitar:
Super 70
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Bluesy, somewhat Funky Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
10K or so
Perceived output level:
Moderate-to slightly hot
Tone:
Bright, but no piercing. Fair amount of bass. Little Mids at all.
Sonic evaluation:
’70s Destroyer, Ibanez Metal Screamer, LM6100 Marshall 4×12 with G12-80s, Intellifex and Boss Parametric(very mild boost at 220 and 2800 hz) in F/X Loop. Significantly Brighter than Custom Custom. More bass; very little Mids. Lots of definition, which is what I was after. The Custom Custom gets a little too soft in high gain for fast (shreddy) runs. Bright, but I think the ‘Q” of the treble is a little lower than most ‘Rock” pickups (Super Distortion or Duncan Dist.) I say this because the pinched harmonics happen in different places on this guitar than they did when it was loaded with Duncan Custom, JB or Custom Custom. Takes a little getting used to. Harmonics are there, but in unexpected places. Nice though, and good definition.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Basic good Rock or Metal pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG-320
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
metal/punk
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
i dont think so
Perceived output level:
Tone:
not a deep bassy tone, yet carries the low end nicely. very trebly but not annoyingly fuzzy. doesnt effectively pickup the extremely bluesy midrange very well. really good palm muting crunch. it seems to have a slite muddy sound but its nothing to worry about.
Sonic evaluation:
run my ibanez into a crybaby wah and then into a boss metalzone and then into a 100watt marshall valvestate. sometimes ill use a delay pedal too.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play metal/punk styles. this pickup really suits this style and really sounds good clean, but dont expect really warm bluesy lead tones. i installed two of these pickups in the bridge and neck possition and i play them simultaneously, but this pickup is mostly suitable for the bridge possition
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez rg 550
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
Goerge Lynch
You musical style(s):
Death Metal, Shred, grindcore
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups lacked definition, especially with power cords
wile using distortion
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
F-spaced
Perceived output level:
pretty hot
Tone:
trebly, with lots of grind in the low end
Sonic evaluation:
ME-30,powered speaker cabs, ART power plant rackmount preamp.
The pickup wasn’t well defined enough, and gave me more pick noise
than tone. Sounded good with leads an had lots of sustain and harmonics.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good for rock and metal.Good overdrive sound for blues tones.
Model of guitar or bass:
older ibanez JS model (don’t know what they called them before he got his name all over everything)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
alternating between this and several others
Other pickups on guitar:
dimarzio stock single coils
Artists using this pickup:
uh, george lynch
You musical style(s):
anything i can make sound good
Reason for pickup change:
i used this pickup previously for about six months and decided that i hated it initially so i removed it. i went to a dimarzio tonezone for another six months or so and decided that i had enough of it as well. i made a previous submission about this pickup and decided that it wasn’t as bad as i had originally thought. it appears to have very nice “live” qualities that make it a suitable pickup for playing most driven rock sounds and even the ocassional power ballad. its got punch (not as much as the tone zone) and more importantly “feel” it is what you might call a more musical pickup vs. the powerhouse tonezone. in short, it doesn’t “blow” as i had stated in my previous submission. my initial concern was with it’s recording capabilities, of which it has a limited amount. it seems kinda muddy in the mix and was still not worth what i payed for it. one plus this pickup has is it’s ability to articulate notes and sustain. in my honest opinion dimarzio tends to record better.
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
if you have time to read this, go to the SD website
Perceived output level:
some people say this pickup is over the top hot ( one guy in a recent submission went NUTZ over it ) WRONG!!!!
Tone:
Scooped mids, tends to make it muddy in softer wood instruments
Sonic evaluation:
well, the reason i decided to make a second submission was that i was jamming with a buddy last night and played this thing through his peavy 2*12 100 watt combo and became really impressed with the sound of this pickup, it really rocks and it’s got soul. the problem is that it’s good at making only one type of sound, it sounds great when it’s driven ( kinda wish it had more balls like the dimarzio ) but backed off it gets kinda brittle, seems like it’s got no in between. sounds great clean though, just needs more power. it seems to work pretty good mixed with the single coils too. this thing was made with heavy reverb, delay, and chorus in mind also. keep on mind george lynch!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
a crunchy lead/rhythm bridge pickup for sure. unlike dimarzio, you can’t get away with everything with this pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson PS4 Japan
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Jackson stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio PAF pro neck
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch
You musical style(s):
Neoclassical, Shred
Reason for pickup change:
More Power
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hyper Mega Ultra Turbo HOT
Tone:
very balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Guitar—RP7—VS100R
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Yeah, good sound
Model of guitar or bass:
Modified Ibanez 365 (2 of ‘em)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock “Powersound” humbucker.
Other pickups on guitar:
DiMarzio “Chopper” neck position.
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch (among others)
You musical style(s):
Rock/Metal/Blues
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pickup was TOO hot – Nothing but mud & distortion.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Go Look it up…
Perceived output level:
The output level of this pickup is perfect. Not too hot & not too weak. This is a medium output pickup; slightly hotter than a Gibson PAF.
Tone:
Very well balanced – slight roll-off on the high end.
Sonic evaluation:
Customized Ibanez 365 (basswood body) through Marshall JCM 900 (4100) head, 4×12 A-cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is perfect for the style of music I play; best suited for bridge position.
The distortion has too much midrange, not versitile for metal, grunge, or agressive punk & hardchore. If you’re into blues or a certain “Texas Tone” this might be your thing.
CLEAN CHANNEL:
:
I bought it to use my vintage FUZZ pedals with it, not good! It distorts anything with treble fed to it’s input. The headroom is very low, there is no clean channel, just lower the volume, and there is little or NO BASS while doing so on clean setting.
VOLUME LOUDNESS:
:
It is somewhat loud enough to compete with drum volume, but that’s because MIDRANGE is what the human ear is most sensitive towards. And I’m talking about when it’s driven with it’s natural distortion.
TONE:
:
There is a design flaw, the TONE-CIRCUIT are before the CLIPPING-STAGE, LAME! When seeing what the distortion looks like on an oscilloscope, it’s not a smooth roundwave like what tubes should do, it’s more jagged, I’d have to show you.
MODIFICATION:
:
I found a mofification online that is supposed to make the clean channel become cleaner & have actual BASS low frequencies produced. It improved it a little bit, not as much as I’d like it to, but it sure beats the stock design for certain!
It only SMOKED once, because I turned everything up all the way for a couple seconds, not even a full minute. I figure to turn the knobs up all the way, because they go up that much! I don’t think anything was damaged, maybe some plastic or something inside was what was melting, but it still works!
The stock tubes die real fast & turn white! I tried playing an acoustic-electric with a standard fishman piezo-preamp, and somehow I caused the tubes to flash a bright light while stopping the sound when durring playing. It hummed/buzzed for a second, then the power-tubes arked/sparked & rewelded themselves an internal path-connection, then worked fine.
Buy it as a collector’s item. This amp is already being phased out. I shouldn’t have modified mine. It’s the cheapest tube amp for it’s price.
I could have saved up for a Fender for a couple hundred more, or the 15Watt model comparable for $100 more, but it doesn’t have as much output power, but then again this is just about as quiet. I sorta wished I didn’t take the Fender back to the store for refund. Fender tubed amps seem to handle pedals a whole lot better!
Good luck with your descision.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Custom ‘62 Tele
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Tom Anderson single coils
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Artists use pickups????
You musical style(s):
Rockabilly, country, blues, rock,
Reason for pickup change:
looking for more of a Tele Twang, and I GOT IT!!!!
Pickup features:
single coil, passive pups
Impedence or other specs:
6.3k, 6.8k
Perceived output level:
The Tom Anderson were fairly high output for single coil, these are about the same
Tone:
Sound is organic, very touch sensitive, clean and full, not brittle at all, and not much noise at all.
Sonic evaluation:
Recording with either a POD XT or a Deluxe Reverb or a Pro Junior. These pick ups are fantastic, they are the best Tele pups I have ever used, and i have tried ALOT of pups!!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
A great match for the styles of music i play (mentioned above)
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Vintage ‘52 Telecaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Lindy Fralin Tele Set
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
None that I know of
You musical style(s):
Blues, Country and original Rock ‘n’ Roll, (Elvis, Buddy Holly).
Reason for pickup change:
See “Other Comments”
Pickup features:
Passive single coils, vintage reproduction
Impedence or other specs:
No idea
Perceived output level:
Rather low, just like old Tele pickups
Tone:
Neck pickup is warm and smooth, bridge is trebly and twangy
Sonic evaluation:
Real Tele character, about as close as you can get to real vintage, (I hate that word), Teles today.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These aren’t for metal or slightly heavier rock but they’re perfect for blues, country and real 50’s rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Peavy Reactor (US made Tele copy)
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
SD Vintage stacks
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, rock
Reason for pickup change:
I put the stacks in a few years ago to get rid of the hum, but it really didn’t get the good Tele sounds I was looking for.
After putting Fralins and VZ’s into two of my strats and being very pleased with the sound and response I figured it was time to see if I could get some better sounds out of this tele.
Pickup features:
passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
6.91k (bridge)
Perceived output level:
Same as vintage
Tone:
Bridge: great highs and mids- harmonics to die for / Neck: a bit bassy
Sonic evaluation:
I’ve been using a modified Pignose G40V (tweed bassman/early Marshall design with added gain stage) and my own ProManiac design which adds a G40V-ish preamp to a BF Pro amp. When adding the Antiquities to my Peavy Reactor I used a Fender #099-2250-000 4-way Tele selector switch ; the 4th position is both pickups in series for a fuller, thicker sound. Since the neck pu is RWRP in relation to the bridge pu, both the parallel and series linkages are hum-cancelling. I used a Fender TBX control for the tone pot and a 500k push-pull pot for volume (the switch reverses the neck pickup leads for out-of-phase sounds). Between the hot terminals of the volume pot I added a 220k resistor and 180pF mica cap to smooth out the response and to retain the highs at lower pot settings (the stock 0.001uF “bright” cap Fender uses is WAY too bright). When rewiring my guitar I went ahead and shielded the cavities with copper foil tape and used the grounding procedures developed by John Atcheley. I also repotted the bridge pickup by suspending it in paraffin melted over a double boiler for an hour (since other posts here mentioned a problem with microphonics).
Sonic evaluation: As other reviews here have mentioned, I have had a hard time putting my guitar down because it sounds so great! I’d tried the SD Broadcaster and Vintage Tele bridge pickups in another Tele years ago and was never very impressed with the sound (although the amps I was using may have had a lot to do with that). They were better than the stock Fender pickup, but did not nail the early Roy Buchanan sound I was looking for. The Antiquity bridge pickup is incredible; with the amp gain turned up I get a very clear sound that will sustain as long as I want it to. The harmonics are thick enough to slice. With the gain turned down, you get a really nice twang which should please the C&W pickers. The neck pickup isn’t quite as remarkable as the bridge, but it works well in the two blend positions (with the 4-way switch). For a totally KILLER guitar, I may eventually rout out the neck pickup cavity and trim the pickguard to mount a Lindy Fralin Vintage Blues strat pickup in the neck position (the Fralins have the best sound of any single coil neck pickup I’ve tried, but for the bridge position you can’t beat the Antiquity Tele- at least for my own playing style). Maybe I’m missing something but I don’t understand why the new 3 pickup Teles use a strat pickup for the MIDDLE position- why not use strat pickups for both the neck and middle position? You’d get some great Strat sounds along with some great Tele sounds. Of course, maybe the Tele neck pickup is popular because of the shielding from the metal cover…
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These pickups are great for the blues and rock I play, and for the c&w that I don’t! Jazz players would like them, too. Metal players would think that the bridge pickup is too bright and that the neck pickup is too wimpy.
I use separate outputs. The synth sound goes out mono via a DI / earth lift box to a Peavey KB60 (for personal monitoring), the FOH PA, and the backline monitor system (for other players). The guitar sound goes straight to a Peavey Duel combo. This adds a little hiss to the guitar signal, but not enough to be a problem live.
I have GK2As on my Levinson Blade and my Yamaha Pacifica 604. It broke my heart to drill holes in these, but it’s the only way!
I find I can usually get close to the sound I want, the two exceptions being Irish low whistle and tubular bells.
The effects are somewhat limited by being presets, so I generally add just a bit of reverb.
Good sounds – brass, strings, organs, various synths.
Bad sounds – violin, guitar (except classical).
Once the pickup is properly fitted, and you’ve set the string sensitivities, it’s pretty easy to pick a patch and play. Two things that make a big difference to how good the unit sounds -
1:
Play feel – the most forgiving and reliable is probably TAP (limited dynamic range).
2:
Chromatic mode – if you can possibly live without bending the notes, select one of the ON settings to ensure stable pitch.
Editing is quite easy, but the two-knob system is a royal pain.
The manual is quite well-written, but it’s not always that easy to find the info you want.
This unit has given me no problems that were not my own fault.
I have mounted it in a 9mm ply home-made stage board / carry case, along with the PSU, bank up/down switches, and an expression pedal.
I do worry about someone treading on a connector and breaking the circuit board.
I would recommend backing up the memory as a SYSEX file on a regular basis – that way, you won’t lose your settings if the unit is trashed, stolen etc.
I use the GR30 to take the role of “virtual keyboard player” in a covers band which plays weddings, parties, dinner-dances etc. I have used it live on a regular basis for over a year now, and it really works.
At the time, there wasn’t much else around. I would consider the new Axon unit, but it doesn’t look as user-friendly.
I don’t like the fact that tracking on the lowest notes is slow and sometimes erratic, but I tend to program my way around this (e.g. play higher, transpose the voice down).
I wish it had a facility to name the patch, not just a number.
Model of guitar or bass:
Washburn M3SW F-style mandolin
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Sam Bush
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
contact piezo
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
very accurate and balanced
Sonic evaluation:
This pickup is great. It’s very accurate and natural sounding–which might be a bad thing if your instrument doesn’t sound very good–like mine. If I were to choose another pickup, I might choose one with a little bit more colouration to disguise the fact that my mandolin SHOULD sound a lot better than it really does.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
bluegrass, classical, etc.
Model of guitar or bass:
1980 Gibson SG Firebrand
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
None. Bought the guitar without pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Fat Cat P90
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know
You musical style(s):
Alternative, Indie
Reason for pickup change:
I bought a body with no hardware and put everything in myself as a project.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
The output on these pickups is hot as advertised. More so than the stock on my Les Pauls
Tone:
Trebly and thin.
Sonic evaluation:
My amp’s a Fender ‘65 Twin Reverb Reissue. The guitar’s a 1980 SG. I put this in with a smaller than stock capacitor and here’s what I found – It’s a very thin, fine sound. Almost as forgetable as the bridge p/u on my Strat USA Standard. Then I clicked on my fuzz pedal (Homebrew UFO) and was blown away. These p/u respond insanely nicely to fuzz. Less so to overdrive. But they have a snarl to them when fuzzy that absolutely hits on everything you would want out of an SG. Very Angus Young… I’ve heard that it feeds back at higher volumes, I haven’t gigged with it yet, so I don’t know.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play all over the map, from classic rock to metal to alternative to indie etc. This p/u for my SG gets a very specific tone. But then an SG itself also gets a very specific tone. Go listen to “Thunderstruck.” If you want that raw, driving, shrill, lead sound, then it’s a good buy. I wouldn’t use it in the neck position…
Model of guitar or bass:
‘90 Gibson Les Paul Studio
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymore Duncan Pearly Gates (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock (many genres of rock from heavy to twangy)
Reason for pickup change:
I felt in needed to do something which would give me a more diverse sound in the studion but not compramise the live sound of the guitar.
Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Excellent gain. Being modeled after the classic 58 or 59 humbucker it lives up to the hype.
Tone:
Full tone.
Sonic evaluation:
I play through a Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 401. This pickup goes great with the EL84’s and the Les Paul/Marshall combo is great.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock/Reggae/Metal/Punk
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson SG Special (1991)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 490T
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson 490R/Burstbucker 2
Artists using this pickup:
Couldn’t care less
You musical style(s):
Mostly rock
Reason for pickup change:
The 490T was old and needed changed. The previous owner appeared to sweat acid so it was in a bit of a state.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Don’t Know
Perceived output level:
More than the Gibson 490T, not as much as the Gibson 500T
Tone:
Very muddy with a nasty middle spike
Sonic evaluation:
Gibson SG Special with a Mesa F-30. As I said in the notes on the Burstbucker 2 it may be the pickups (being of a vintage disposition) didn’t like the tone of the amp. Either way I didn’t like the pickups. This pickup in the bridge sounded worse than the Burstbucker 2 in the neck.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Some clean, some rock, some metal
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul Limited Edition
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock…’bout to be replaced by a #2
Artists using this pickup:
me….
You musical style(s):
new rock, blues,
Reason for pickup change:
Chasing that never-ending quest for tone. The stock pickups didn’t cut through in a live mix very good, and were too tinny sounding.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker, Alnico II, non-potted, gold cover
Impedence or other specs:
a gazillion megaohms….no, really…I don’t have a clue.
Perceived output level:
a bit more than stock…not as hot as an EMG 81, but not as crappy either.
Tone:
well balanced…very well…..
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using this configuration thru a ‘96 Mesa Dual Rectifier, and the tone is just killer. Even though it’s not wax potted, I don’t have a problem with feedback. I play fairly loud, and the only time that I get uncontrollable feedback is when I step within two feet of my amp, but most of the time I’m at least five feet away. I can get a nice controlled feedback very easily, and harmonics are very easy to get. It’s not too trebly, not too bassy, and doesn’t overwhelm one with mids. A very, very nice blend of even tones.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play new rock, along the lines of Nickelback, Smile Empty Soul, Three Days Grace…etc. A very good pickup for this kind of music.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone G-400
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Alnico V
Other pickups on guitar:
Burstbucker (warm)
Artists using this pickup:
um…
You musical style(s):
Metal and blues
Reason for pickup change:
Stocks are not so great.
Pickup features:
Alnico II- vintage, passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Unsure
Perceived output level:
Hot enough for nearly all metal. But is not the ice pick hot of EMG 81. Thus a better, fuller sound.
Tone:
Very balanced.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a hughes & Kettner blue edition 30 watt amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play metal mostly. Loads of Sabbath and this pickup is much better than the Iommi signature. I also play blues and it is great for that as well. This pickup would fit both bridge and or neck without a big problem.
Model of guitar or bass:
Semi hollow ESP LTD ec300at
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan JB 102
Other pickups on guitar:
Burstbucker 2 in the neck
Artists using this pickup:
You’re mom
You musical style(s):
Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pu’s
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I don’t really know or care
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
Bass and treble, but still pretty balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Man once I put these in I was in shock. I must admit I was kind of skeptical before putting them in but once I did they made a huge difference. These are pretty hot and have a nice bite to them. Sustain is so much better then the duncans. While these aren’t single coils so the clarity is not unmatched, but it certainly is good. Has a slight natural crunch which I like; I think it just adds a nice flavor. Coupled with my Burstbucker 2 in the neck this is an outstanding pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good for Rock, Blues, Jazz, even Pop. Probably not for Country playin’ folk
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter C1+
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan JB
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
i dont know
You musical style(s):
pop,punk,rock, hard rock, jazz, pretty much anything
Reason for pickup change:
I had the JB in for a while, and didnt really want all that output/focused high mids anymore. Wanted something a little more vintage, to let my amp do more work
Pickup features:
passive humbucking, with a nickel cover
Impedence or other specs:
umm, I dont know
Perceived output level:
It was hot, but not too hot. I would say a little less than the JB
Tone:
Middy, but well balanced, with great bass response and conservative treble, which I like
Sonic evaluation:
I loved the tone; HATED the feedback. I have a mesa Triaxis (that I saved many summers for!!!) 20/20 power amp, and 4×12 recto cab with the celstion 90s, not the v30s. I do not play that loud, just about 12 o clock on the volumes of the 20/20, and I could not literally stand within 15 feet of the amp, or I would get this horrible high pitched feedback, not cool feedback you can control, but awful feedback even as I was playing!! It was embarrassing
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play punk, and while feedback is a good thing with this kind of music, not feedback so loud and obnoxious that it cant be controlled, while playing….
Model of guitar or bass:
93 Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Anything from soft to hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
Didnt like the tone from the original pu
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Pretty hot, just a notch or so less than the 500t
Tone:
Balanced and not harsh
Sonic evaluation:
Played thru a Boogie DC-5 and a Marshall 900 combo. Other various tube amps too
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
LesPaul Gold Top 1960 re-issue
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
500 T
Other pickups on guitar:
496 R
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Classic Rock / Heavy Blues
Reason for pickup change:
500T sounded too thin and very harsh.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
Less putput than the 500T but a lot more midrange and creamier
Tone:
Very Balanced
Sonic evaluation:
I am currently using a Carvin X100B head with 2X12 G12T-75 Celestions. But I am having a Traynor YSR-1 moddified by Voodooamps.com They are making it a Plexi…
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Heavy Blues and Rock, wouldn’t recommend it for Metal unless you use a pedal to enhance distortion.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez AX220MB
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
AH3
Other pickups on guitar:
Burstbucker 2 in neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Alternattive Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Bridge pickup was dry and sterile.
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
6.2
Perceived output level:
Hot output …not over the top like some other brands….it is more than perfect.
Tone:
the tone of this pickup is extremely well balance throughout the sound spectrum and more importantly it’s very warm and organic sounding!
Sonic evaluation:
I’am using a Laney Vh100r, Engl Thunder 50, and Laney LH50R along with marshall cabs. These pickups sound amazing through any amp!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
The pickups will sound great just about anything except for metal unless you have a Metal Zone pedal ….other than that I sounds great for anything, but I will say that nothing beats a blues or a jazz tone using Fender high end pickups like the Noiseless or Vintage series.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone les paul custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
epi standard bridge p/u
Other pickups on guitar:
epi standard neck p/u
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
punk, blues, classic rock, zepplin, zztop, etc.
Reason for pickup change:
the epi bridge pickup was too bassy, not a lack of power on my epi but muddy.
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
its mega hot, hot enough to get those rock riffs goin but i wouldnt suggest for death metal, not that kind of pickup(good music only, lol)
Tone:
middy/trebly
Sonic evaluation:
midy with pronounced high and low mids making it clear and lots of power!!!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
rock/blues, good for bridge but i guess you could put it newhere
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Standard Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson Classic 57 in neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, Classic Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup were….. well…weak…
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Has made my cheap import sound very smooth and still has some bite when I want it.
Tone:
I replaced the pots to Gibson 500K and it seemed to let the pickups shine. My old tone directly into my tube amp was very muddy on the neck and very mid on the bridge. The two could never be used together. But now I can get a really great neck tone and when using the pickups together at low volumes I can do some killer blues/jazz runs…the burstbucker #3 by itself reminds me of turning some reverb on…a very nice treble bite but when used on the drive channel I get some Zep sounds.
Sonic evaluation:
Epiphone Les Paul, Teese RMC Wah, Fulldrive2, Maxon Analog Delay, to
Carvin Legacy 100w, 4×12 Greenbacks. If you have a Les Paul wanna be like me and can’t see dropping $ 3,700 on a 58 re-issue then I recommend changing your pickups and pots in your guitar and it will not be the real deal but so close no one will care…and you can spend the rest on some toys or you amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like playing Zep, SRV and lots of blues…Albert King….Jeff Beck……the Burstbucker #3 was a good choice for my guitar. You might like it yourself…after all the Tone Quest can’t last forever.
Model of guitar or bass:
LesPaul gold top reissue 1960
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
500 T
Other pickups on guitar:
496R
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Classic Rock / Blues
Reason for pickup change:
500 T pickup sounded a liitle thin higher up on the neck.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
not sure
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Marshall JCM 900 2X12 combo(tube) with an extension 2X12 cabinet. Gibson LesPaul 1960 goldtop re-issue and a Gibson Firebird Reverse re-issue with 500T in the bridge and 496R in thr neck position.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Classic rock, blues..
Model of guitar or bass:
02 Gibson Les Paul Special
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
490R Alnico Magnet Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Burstbucker 2
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Classic rock, blues, grunge, psychadelic
Reason for pickup change:
Needed new pickups for this guitar I’m building, but I figured that it could never be a Les Paul Custom so I put the burstbuckers in the real les paul, and put the old gibson pickups into the new guitar.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
7.7k
Perceived output level:
Les than my old 490R Alnico humbucker, but louder than the burstbucker 2
Tone:
great bass, very little mid, good treble (slightly overshadowed by the louder bass). You can hear every note in the chord… amazing.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m playing the burstbucker and burstbucker 2 in my Gibson LP Special via Monster Cables which pump the sound through a boss tuner, boss oc-2, morley wah, mxr distortion +, and mxr phaser (with some special guitar center mods) and then it all goes back to my Marshall AVT275. When I practice at home, I just use this shitty Crate GFX-15. My guitar/pickup combo sounds great through most amps that I’ve played on, but especially good on Marshalls.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great for classic rock stuff, kinda difficult to get a dirty garage sound because these are more about beauty, good for funk/rap/r&b, great for bassy blues. I haven’t tried this pickup in any other positions.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone SG Special
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Factory
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Still looking
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted my guitar to sound like a PRS. This pickup is what the guitar center recommended.
Pickup features:
humbucker passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Normal
Tone:
bassy and trebly
Sonic evaluation:
I put a #1 in the neck and a #3 in the bridge of my Epiphone SG Special guitar. I played them through a Fender Blues Deluxe Amp (with and without a Digitech 2120 preamp). These pickups sound fantastic going direct through the amp. They consistently produce a nice jazzy sound that is similar to what a PRS produces. Through the preamp with clean effects, they sound great. The metal and rhythmic metal effects sound good only if the presence is boosted.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
For blues, funk, and jazz, this pickup with give you the sound you want. For metal, you might want another pickup although these can give you the right sound if you manipulate your effects a little bit.
Model of guitar or bass:
Tokai Love Rock
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Original Pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, blues, etc.
Reason for pickup change:
Original pickups lacked depth and punch, as well as complexity.
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Neck: 7.65 /Bridge: 8.3
Perceived output level:
Traditional PAF territory, not really hot.
Tone:
These pickups are on the bright side, with biting edge, especially on the bridge. They have a tight and prominent bass response, but are attentuated in the mids.
Sonic evaluation:
For practice I play through a Fender ‘64 Vibrochamp with a Fender Reissue. With a band I play through a Mesa Heartbreaker combo.
I have a #1 Burstbucker with Alnico V magnets in the neck, and a #2 Burstbucker with Alnico 2 magnets in the bridge.
I can only say that these are incredible pickups. I’ve been mainly a Fender guy for most of my twenty years of playing, but sometimes you need the punch of a humbucker. I have another Les Paul with Duncan Antiquities. While they are great, they really do sound like “old” pickups with the edges of the sound worn off. They have the complexity, but do not have the “edge” that the Burstbuckers have, where the sound seems to jump out of the guitar.
When I put the Burstbuckers into the Tokai I was expecting some cross between the Duncans and Gibson’s ‘57 PAF reissues. I can only say I was amazed. No they are not as warm and complex as the Duncans, but these pickups are more “alive.” They are so much better than the ‘57 PAF reissues, which give a punchy, but very smooth sound–which some people especially jazzers would like.
But these pickups are not for everyone. Some people like humbuckers that are dark and chunky, which the Burstbuckers are not. They don’t hide careless technique and mistakes like most humbuckers. This is especially a warning to players who play through modern Marshalls which are usually very bright.
I was always weary of humbuckers as I always felt like I was playing through a cottony gauze that limited my picking attack and dynamics. Perhaps because of the uneven windings, there is an edge on these pickups–especially the #2 in the bridge position–which I have not heard in any other PAF replications.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Definitely not a metal pickup, perhaps too bright and edgey for jazz, but an excellent blues and rock pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Dearmond x155
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock junk
Other pickups on guitar:
stock pickups
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
jazz, blues , rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups were way to bright with a very unforgiving treble bite. The stock pickups were brighter than my telecaster. Great guitar terrible pickups do yourself a favor and get one of these Dearmond jazz boxes and save the big bucks for your retirement, there really is not that much of a difference in the sound once you change out the electronics.
Pickup features:
humbucker #2 in bridge and neck
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
They seem about the same, I tend to keep my pickups adjusted farther from the strings.
Tone:
The best pickup I’ve heard from Gibson, it’s about time they started doing something right.
Sonic evaluation:
I use these pickups in a deep hollow body guitar and they sound great. The tone reminds me of the old jazz guys very textered and sweet.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I got this pickup for a jazz guitar, but I’m sure it would sound good in any situation.
Model of guitar or bass:
2001 Les Paul Standard
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
490R/498T
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Gary Moore
You musical style(s):
Classic Rock – Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups had too much bottom end, resulting in a muddy sound. Also, they weren’t clear-sounding.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I’m using a Burstbucker #1 (neck 7.7k) and #3 (bridge, 8.3k)
Perceived output level:
Less output compared to modern pickups. This results in better tone, but harder to do pinch harmonics.
Tone:
Accentuated bass and treble response.
Sonic evaluation:
I play Les Pauls thru Marshall Plexis. The Burstbuckers have lots of bass and treble, but their lack of mids make them sound brittle instead of warm. I really noticed this when comparing them to 50’s era PAFs that I own. That said, the Burstbuckers are still way better than the stock pickups. They are a lot clearer.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Versatile pickup: covers the gamut from blues to metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Ace Frehley model
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Classic 57
Other pickups on guitar:
Classic 57 and 490R
Artists using this pickup:
Gary Moore
You musical style(s):
Rock
Reason for pickup change:
I thought when I bought a Classic 57 I was buying the best PAF reproduction pickup from Gibson. Now the come out with the Burstbucker and I have heard so many good things about them I had to check them out. And for $100 new I thought it was a good time to try it.
Pickup features:
Humbucker with nickel cover #2
Impedence or other specs:
8.2 k ohms 2 conductor wiring
Perceived output level:
Medium output pickup. It’s a #2. Hotter than my Classic 57.
Tone:
Very clean, balanced output. A bit more treble and bright sounding.
Sonic evaluation:
I have a Rivera Fandango 112. I plugged in my LP and cranked it up and this pickup squealed like a stuck pig. It has no wax potting (like the original paf’s) so it will feedback badly if you stand in front of your amp with high gain. It sounds great other than that.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mostly rock so this pickup matches up good on most stuff. This is a #2 and could be used in the bridge or neck depending on what your using it with. It measures around 8.2k and my classic 57 in the neck is around 7.8k so it’s a great match.
Model of guitar or bass:
EPI LES PAUL CUSTOM
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
STOCK
Other pickups on guitar:
N/A
Artists using this pickup:
//
You musical style(s):
ROCK: NEW AND OLD
Reason for pickup change:
TRYING TO GET A EPI LP TO SOUND AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE TO A GIBSON LP
Pickup features:
HUMBUCKER
Impedence or other specs:
#3 IN THE BRIDGE AND # 2 FOR THE NECK
Perceived output level:
HOT, GREAT HARMONICS .NOT TO HOT, JUST RIGHT
Tone:
TONE IS WARM AND FAT NO MUD
Sonic evaluation:
EPI LP CUSTOM, I ALSO HAVE 79 GIBSON LP CLASSIC AND PLAY THROUGH MESA BOOGIE 60 WATT.
I FIRST TRIED THE FOLLOWING P/U: SD JEFF B, SD 59, AND I DO LOVE JB BUT THE BURSBUCKERS ARE THE BEST ALL AROUND P/U. THEY ARE HOT AND I HAD NO INTENTION LOOKING FOR A ZZ TOP SOUND BUT THAT IS THE 1ST THING THAT COMES TO MIND. THESE ARE VERY VERSITLE AND A BIT PRICY BUT WELL WORTH IT. MY EPI LP SOUNDS WONDERFUL AND ADDED THAT GIBSON TONE. I THINK MY EPI IS ACTUALLY SOUNDS BETTER THAN MY GIBSON-GO FIGURE! I ALSO MUST ADD HOW EASY THESE WERE TO INSTALL, THE TWO-CONDUCTER WIRE DOES NOT GET ANY EASIER. I READ BELOW SAYING THES ARE NOT METAL P/U?S BUT I HAD NO PROB WHEN CRANKING THE DIST ON MY MESA. THAT IS WHY I SAY THESE ARE SO VERSITLE, ZZ TOP THRU DEFAULT, PUDDLE OF MUD, ETC.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
GREAT MATCH FOR ALMOST ANYTHING. BEST FOR “IN YOUR FACE” CLASSIC ROCK
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson Kelly
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Jackson?
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Metal/Rock/blues
Reason for pickup change:
I love the guitar style but couldnt afford a new Kelly so I decided to beef mine up and started at the pickups
Pickup features:
Hum.
Impedence or other specs:
Burstbucker 2 in neck 3 in bridge
Perceived output level:
not as hot as 500T but pretty close
Tone:
awsome!
Sonic evaluation:
just expensive headphones and a cheap effects processor or wheatever i can get my hands on
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Love Metal, but it isnt exactly a metal pickup. it sounds awsome with clean tone but gives a pretty cool, and different soung when distorted. i love it
Model of guitar or bass:
Stock on ‘01 Les Paul ‘58 reissue
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, blues, whatever
Reason for pickup change:
No change – these were stock
Pickup features:
Humbuckers
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Vintage
Tone:
Incredibly balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Going through two Crate VC-3112 Class A 30 watt amps, these pickups are the best! They have a real sweet high-mid with more highs than the ‘57 Classic humbuckers. They are lower in output than some pickups but their sweet tone was well worth it. Great harmonics and they were creamy when I went into overdrive.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great for all styles except real hard metal
Model of guitar or bass:
Les Paul
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
Gary Moore
You musical style(s):
Pop/Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change:
N/A
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
9.0
Perceived output level:
Not quite as hot as a Gibson 500T but hotter than the ‘57 classic…
Tone:
Neck position gets pretty thick, great for leads. Bridge is VERY trebly.
Sonic evaluation:
The set up I use is the Les Paul through an Ibanez tube screamer into a Marshall JCM 800 2×12 Combo with a 2×12 extention cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mainly modern hard rock, for which this pickup is perfect for. In the Gary Moore Les Paul, It’s the same pickup in both positions. The difference in the tones is in the location.
Model of guitar or bass:
2001 Fender Standard Telecaster (Made in Mexico)
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Standard Mexican pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Waylon Jennings (RIP, Hoss)
You musical style(s):
Country (Waylon style — not this new “country”)
Reason for pickup change:
The original pickups were very shrill sounding and noisy.
Pickup features:
Active single coils
Impedence or other specs:
10K ohms
Perceived output level:
Quite a bit hotter than originals, although they don’t distort my amp (a pre-DSP Fender Deluxe 90), and I’m not even using the second input, which is meant for active pickups.
Tone:
Plenty of bass, yet very twangy. The mids are strong. There’s lots of treble, but it’s not shrill at all. You can hear a lot of detail, especially with new strings.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a pre-DSP Fender Deluxe 90, and while these pickups are hot, they don’t distort the amp at all. The original MIM pickups’ shrill treble always sounded terrible and used to distort. The EMGs have a much better top end that isn’t shrill but is still very bright.
These pickups NAIL the Waylon Jennings tone, especially his post-1990 or so tone (he used EMGs from then on). I can get his earlier tones with these pickups, too. That is why I bought them, and they’re serving me well.
The neck pickup is MUCH better than the original MIM pickup. I thought that was a good pickup until I heard this one… I was blown away. It twangs and has plenty of treble. The EMG bridge compared to the original MIM is like night and day. The EMG is just better in every way. It’s plenty bright (if you ever find it too bright — and I don’t — the tone control is great and rolls the treble off nicely) and twangs, yet it’s not thin or shrill sounding like the original MIM.
The neck pickup is quiter than the bridge (and the specs state this), with only a small amount of hiss present. The bridge pickup does have a small amount of hum, but, really, it’s pretty hard to hear it. Compared to all the passive Tele pickups I’ve heard, I would call these silent.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These pickups seem very versatile. They’re very quiet, so they’re great when using distortion, and they are beautiful clean.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Nashville Deluxe, made in mexico
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
made in mexico passives
Other pickups on guitar:
EMG SA single coil
Artists using this pickup:
???
You musical style(s):
would you believe a conglomerate of Danny Gatton (R.I.P.), and Radiohead?
Reason for pickup change:
standard pickups were noisy, lacked bite and output.
Pickup features:
active single coil set for Tele
Impedence or other specs:
10 Kohms
Perceived output level:
active=very high clean output
Tone:
crystal clear, with all frequencies present.
Sonic evaluation:
I use lots of effects with a Peavey Classic 30 (I wouldnt use EMG pickups with a solidstate amp). The pickups give a good loud clean signal with MINIMAL NOISE/HUM for effectpedals and amps to work on, and , I guess because of the low impediance, they don’t get lost in a long chain of grungy effects – you can really pile them up. This Tele set has a modern, ultra quiet Tele twang, with a smooth top-end that is never shrill. They do have this treble ’shimmer’ that sounds bite-y or sometimes sterile, depending on amp+FX tone. There is a little lack of character, yes, but somehow I feel that this allows you the player to add to the sound – with you hands, pedals and amp, or whatever you feel like throwing at the guitar.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I need a setup that can handle different styles and these can. And for heavier fatter (generic) distortion you shouldnt be playing a telecaster guitar (unless you mangled it with a humbucker)
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Fat Strat
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender Lace Sensor Silver (neck position), Fender stock humbucker (bridge position)
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy
You musical style(s):
you name it
Reason for pickup change:
Stock neck and middle pickups very unsatisfactory.
Pickup features:
passive "single coil"
Impedence or other specs:
5.8k resistance, peak frequency of 3600 and 2.4 induction
Perceived output level:
Warmer than most, but not extremely hot
Tone:
Clear, crisp, precise, clean but warm.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Vox Valvetronix amp currently. The original neck and bridge pickups in the (Mexico-made) Standard Fat Strat (now for some reason called the HSS) were dreadful. Strangely enough, the bridge humbucker is quite good, but the neck and middle pickups were utterly terrible – noisy and flat-sounding. The guitar didn’t sound like a Strat. I replaced the neck pickup with a Silver Lace Sensor, which made a 100% improvement in the sound. A friend gave me a box of parts recently which included a Gold Lace Sensor, and I replaced the last stock pickup in the middle position with the Gold Lace Sensor. The difference was again amazing. The Gold Lace Sensor is clear, crisp and ringing, but there is also a warmth that is very rewarding to the ear. It also works well in the 2 and 4 positions on the 5 way switch, providing authentic Richard Thompson/Mark Knopfler “out of phase” tones. I am very pleased with the sound. As with the Silver Lace Sensor, the sound it provides is almost an idealized Strat sound. The Gold is not as “round” a sound as the Silver but this works well in the middle position. After I put it in, I found myself playing leads with the middle position pickup, something I have seldom done even with the other Strats I have owned. I definitely like these Lace Sensors.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mostly my own music, which is influenced by Richard Thompson, Velvets, Robyn Hitchcock, Kevin Ayers, Syd Barrett and other unknown weirdos from Britain (Ghod bless ‘em all). The pickup might be too bright for the bridge position in a standard strat but otherwise I can’t see why it wouldn’t work all over the Strat.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender stratocaster Mexico
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Texas Specials in three positions
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t mind don’t know
You musical style(s):
Blues Bluesrock
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more pressure, sustain and fuller sound with no earpicking hights in it
Pickup features:
single coil
Impedence or other specs:
about 7 Kohm
Perceived output level:
more than texas specials with much more pressure!
Tone:
very balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Fender strat Mexico then a POD2.0 and as amplifier a straight PA amp. with a 4″ speaker line-array (ala Bose PAS)
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues Bluesrock suitable for all the pos.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Mexican Strat
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
red lace sensor – bridge, blue lace sensor – neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
punk, rock, classical (weird, I know), blues
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups sounded bad, hummed a lot too
Pickup features:
singe coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
nicely balanced, I especially like the highs, really does sound “bell-like”
Sonic evaluation:
I play a Strat through some old Fender Sidekick Reverbs. I usually use the middle setting for clean stuff. Sounds excellent. Although, the pickup sounds a little weak compared to the blue and red lace sensors. Not a big fan of using this pickup distorted, gets too muddy for my taste.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I’d recommend this pickup for any music that requires a clean setting, and maybe a little overdrive.
Model of guitar or bass:
Squier Fat Strat
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymor Duncan SH-8 humbucker on bridge, fender silver lace in middle
Artists using this pickup:
claptons the only one im certain of
You musical style(s):
some punk, alternative, blues, rock n roll
Reason for pickup change:
dissatisfied with previous pickups, littlest possible output with no clarity.
Pickup features:
single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
??
Perceived output level:
not that hot, though a fair bit hotter than the stock pickups
Tone:
kinda trebly, but that can be changed slightly. but i dont know why you’d change it, sounds great
Sonic evaluation:
squier strat into a marshall JCM 800 cut in half. boss overdrive and distortion w/ Vox wah-wah. in process of building own amp with my uncle. gonna be HUUUUUGE
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
suits the blues and old rock well at the neck pos. for punk and modern distortion, its not that flash, does ok under mild overdrive or a blues driver.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender ‘68 re-issue MIJ Lefty
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Vintage Toneless uh Noiseless
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton
You musical style(s):
Classic rock and blues
Reason for pickup change:
I made the mistake of replacing the original bogus pickups with the equally bogus noiseless pickups. The vintage noiseless pickup is simply weak and has no character. I am far more pleased with the Lace sensors. I am not looking to emulate anybody else’s tone, so I don’t worry if I can’t sound exactly like Stevie Ray or anyone else for that matter with these pickups. For me, they provide the warmth, the punch and the clarity that I found lacking in the Vintage Toneless pickups.
Pickup features:
Passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
To me, these have noticeably more output than the noiseless.
Tone:
warm and sparkling. great all around tone.
Sonic evaluation:
‘68 lefty re-issue strat into a Hot Rod Deluxe with a celestion vintage 30, budda wah, morley emerald echo, fulltone ‘70 pedal, Boss CE2, Korg 105OD. Everything sounds better with these pickups. My sound is so more defined, cutting,etc. A vast improvement.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These are perfect for the classic rock and blues I play.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock pickups, also replaced tone controls with TBX and EMG-SPC
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton !!
You musical style(s):
“Classic Rock” (Pink Floyd, The Who)
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted a crystal-like tone and didn’t have the money for EMG-SA’s !
Pickup features:
Passive, single-coil, transducer (i think) pickup
Impedence or other specs:
??
Perceived output level:
Slightly hotter than stock pickups, MUCH brighter
Tone:
fairly balanced, has enough treble to cut through the mix
Sonic evaluation:
Using my friends HIWATT (Oh yeah) and my Marshall DSL50 it sounds VERY Floyd and Clapton
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Not good for metal/thrash or anything too heavy. It does distortion but could be better
Model of guitar or bass:
57 Reissue Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Vintage Noiseless, which replaced the stock units.
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
blues, classic rock
Reason for pickup change:
Looking for the ultimate Stratocaster sound.
Pickup features:
Vintage single-coil style.
Impedence or other specs:
??
Perceived output level:
Hotter than vintage, but not much.
Tone:
More midrange and mid-bass frequencies than stock single-coils. Less clang on the top-end.
Sonic evaluation:
Either a Fender 4-10 Tweed Bassman or Vox AC-30, both reissues.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
For my style, they work fine, which is to say nothing horrible happens (like with the Vintage Noisless pickups).
Model of guitar or bass:
1989 Fender Strat Eric Clapton model
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none – came with guitar
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton
You musical style(s):
rockabilly, funk, RnB, blues, pop, rock
Reason for pickup change:
I changed these out for REAL Strat PU’s last year because the gold lacew sensors sounded like mosquitos on drugs
Pickup features:
active single coil
Impedence or other specs:
huh?
Perceived output level:
fuzzy, thin
Tone:
thin
Sonic evaluation:
yuch!! I bought the guitar for the neck (still love it) but was clueless about tone at the time. I threw them in the garbage
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
all
Model of guitar or bass:
88′ Eric Clapton stratocaster w/ 90 model electronics
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Came stock
Other pickups on guitar:
All the same, all 3
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Jeff beck
You musical style(s):
Psychedelic Nightmare Rock/Blues, Simular to David Gilmore but dramatic like Roger Waters
Reason for pickup change:
Cold day in hell will i change these out!
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Standatd strat is around 20 gain on a JCM 900 Distortion Channel what the Clapton can do at around 10 if you know how to adjust the mid- gain and TBX Knobs
Tone:
In a word, "Smooth" in another "Singing"
Sonic evaluation:
My main emhasis is lead playing, 95 percent of the time i am playing high gain with at least some level of distortion with at least 87 db of sound pressure. But these pickups (especially neck and mid) sound great in low gain and clean settings.
I used a Marshall Jcm 900 100 watt half stack for a long time, had to sell it and have been trying out Fender Evil twins, Mesa’s and Solidano’s Don’t use with a fender deluxe or any amp made for vintage reissue sound, your neck pickup will clip the holy hell out of it!!!
The Evil Twin works very well with this Guitar, i WANT this amp, this is the sound i have been looking for for years, the vintage twin is…Ok the mesa combo is great, but i like the Evil better.
the JCM 2000 is another good one, if you like twangy dirty lead sound. Personally i am more of a smooth lead player, my producer says i sound a lot like David Gilmore with more high gain emphysis.
But let me define what “I” call good high gain sound. I like singing guitar sound, smooth and singing not rauchy, irritating and crappy, my “sound” is the exact opposite to Fuzz as high Gain is conserned. This is why i use sensors, the only other pickups that come close are the EMG’s, but i find that the fender clapton scheme with sensors are better on 9 volt batteries. EMG’s you better change every otehr gig or you’ll be sorry. I have gone 6 motnths giging every other day with these electronics.
Well now that you know where i am comming from, i will evaluate the pickups. The Gold sensors are good all around pickups. With the Clapton Active circutry it really comes alive and with the right amp (almost anything all tube and decent built) the sound will gets heads turning and compliments galore!!!
One nice feature of the sensors is that it is the only magnetic pickup that will not pull on your strings at all. What this does is emphisises good harrmonics in the strings, it also avoids colorations and amplifacation of bad harmonics.
The lace senors do even better with active circutry, but with circutry designed for it. I wouldn’t put just any active in there, the clapton scheme is as good as it gets as far as sensors are concerned. But you gotta know how to use it. Best trick is to change the mid-gain and TBX when you change from clean to distortion.
Here is what i play with distortion with any pickup
High gain
Volume TBX Mid-Gain This setting sings like a cannary
10 1 10
Low Gain
10 10 1
with some tweaking on occasion, but on stage, this is basically it
This is how you work the circuts on a Clapton, if you have it try it, remember on a Clapton, the Circutry is all master, which throws most strat players off, i frowned at it at first, but only at first because it took some getting used to, now all my strats will have it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
good for all, unlike other sensors
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Mustang
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Mustang Pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender Lace sensor gold
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Jeff Beck
You musical style(s):
Hendrix, The Doors, Led Zepp, STP
Reason for pickup change:
Needed more sustain & clarity
Pickup features:
Single coil, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know
Perceived output level:
Less than the stock Mustang pickups
Tone:
A very bright balanced tone a little thin & trebly
Sonic evaluation:
I’m playing w/my Fender Mustang ‘69 reissue through a fender RocPro 1000 head hooked up to a sunn 300 watt cab, boss noise suppressor, boss digital dely/reverb, & ibanez tube screamer.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play alot of bluesy hard rock stuff. In my opinion this pickup is not suited for the neck position, it doesn’t have enough bass for it!
Model of guitar or bass:
Mexican Fender Standard Stratocaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
DiMarzio Virtual Vintage
Other pickups on guitar:
Lace Silver in the middle & Lace Blue in the bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton!
You musical style(s):
Blues & Folk influenced rock, pseudo psychedelic
Reason for pickup change:
Curiosity! I had no misgivings against the VV, I was just curious to try out the Lace Gold in the neck position, since the sensors can be set very close to the strings without damping the strings, I felt it was woth a shot …
Pickup features:
Noise Cancelling Single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Unsure, 5.8k? Just a guess …
Perceived output level:
Not quite as hot as the VV, but still loud enough (closer to the strings).
Tone:
The tone is balanced and a bit mellow ( bridge position). Quack factor not as prominent, but it’s still there!
Sonic evaluation:
I was able to plug in my Fender Blues Jr right away this time around instead of listening through headphones (Zoom 503). I mus say I’m very happy with the results.
Some argue Lace Sensors sound dry and sterile with no quack, fret noise or harmonics, I disagree. The quack isn’t quite as prominent,that’s true, but with the middle (Silver) sensor wired to a phase switch, the versatility is pretty impressive and the quack is there!
For those who complain about the lack of harmonics and fret noise … change your strings! I’m using a new set of no-name brand slinky strings (nickel wound I think) and I’m getting plenty of fret noise and harmonics.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Very versatile, suitable for any style (other than trash metal I guess).
Model of guitar or bass:
MIJ ’50s reissue strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
original
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
blues
Reason for pickup change:
the original pickups sounded thin and harsh
Pickup features:
sc
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
quite a bit hotter than the originals
Tone:
balanced
Sonic evaluation:
65 RI Twin Reverb, SF Super Reverb
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great for almost anything
Model of guitar or bass:
Eric Clapton Signature Strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none…these are the originals
Other pickups on guitar:
duh…these are the originals
Artists using this pickup:
E.C. Jeff Beck…and whoever else uses one of their guitars or a strat plus
You musical style(s):
Blues, Classic Rock, Allman Bros., Jazzy elements added to all
Reason for pickup change:
um…original pickups
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
whatever fender says
Perceived output level:
not much different in output level
Tone:
Bassy…crappy midrange (if any at all since it cuts them out and you have to add them yourself), High end isn’t bad…a little weak in places…definately not balanced in the sense that i percieve balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Used through an old Peavey Classic 30 (all you scoffers hush…this little monster will burn some tone…except i heard the new ones were terrible…mine isn’t). I use a whooooooole lot of midrange and very little bass and adequate treble to give me high end enough to cut through and a little clarity when clean. These pickups will thump the bass with the bass control on 2 which mine was at. Plus…have a very dry kind of sterile sound to them…maybe it is just my opinion of them…but I prefer the stock ones in my mexican standard (ok ok ok…I told you scoffers to hush)mainly cause these pickups are quite dead sounding with my setup…the mexi ones however at least give the guitar a more earthy 3-Dimesional quality.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i dunno…doesn’t really work for me…too dry and Bassy
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock Fender
Other pickups on guitar:
all the same
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton, Beck, Buddy Guy
You musical style(s):
rock, punk, alternative
Reason for pickup change:
had an old Squier and wanted quieter pickups
Pickup features:
Non-traditional single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Huh?
Perceived output level:
about the same as stock pickups, perhaps a bit hotter
Tone:
incredibly clear and balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Standard Stratocaster, Princeton 65, various small practice amps. These are the best sounding pickups I have heard. They are great clean, excellent overdriven, and handle distortion very well. They pick up every nuance of your playing style, which some dislike, but I prefer. Some complain that you can’t get the Fender “quack”, but the 2 and 4 positions are close enough for my taste. The sustain, though better than stock pickups, isn’t really huge, so I will probably replace the bridge pickup with a Red Lace Sensor.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Suitable for anything but metal, which would need higher gain.
Model of guitar or bass:
Harmony Strat clone (you can stop snickering now…)
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Gold lace sensor (middle), Red lace sensor (bridge)
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, the guy from Bush
You musical style(s):
Alternative, Metal, punk, anything labeled ‘xxxrock’
Reason for pickup change:
My stock pickups sucked.
Pickup features:
single-coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
???
Perceived output level:
slightly more than my original pickups.
Tone:
Not ‘vintage’ These pickups have a dark sound to them.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a heavily modified Harmony Strat clone. What can I say, Im a poor high-schoo student! I have a Marshall solidstate combo.
These pickups are not your typical glassy vintage sounding pickups. I was surprised at the lack of that glassy, subdued tone. I knew that the blue lace sensor and the silver didnt, but since the gold is supposed to be the least hot of the bunch. However, this suits me just fine (albeit if I lowered the pickups it would sound more ‘normal’). These pickups have a good crunch when your playing distorted. They pick up harmonics very well for a neck or middle pickup (my red lace bridge is screaming when it comes to harmonics). These pickups do not have the clean ’sparkle’ that many people look for in a vintage-type pickup (no big surprise for me, seeing how they lacked the glassy sound that the strat is known for). Overall, they are very good pickups. They have a good output level, and in the 4th pickup position (middle and bridge) the sound is increadible, with little need for EQ. My review for the red lace sensor has got more info, if you want it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Most. This is a well-rounded pickup. The distorted tone, however is much better than the clean (if you want that ’sparkle’).
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
these are stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton, Beck, Buddy Guy
You musical style(s):
with this guitar(strat plus), I play blues, hard rock, and jazz.
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hotter than American standard pick ups but not as hot as P-90’s. I don’t think it sounds like a classic Fender pick up because it is semi hot.
Tone:
Middy. It is quite high gain. Vintage sounding.
Sonic evaluation:
My set up is the strat plus through a crybaby (I don’t use effects very much, I like to be the guitarist who just plugs in and kicks ass) then straight into either a marshall valvestate 8080, Mesa DC-2, or a Sovtek Mig 60 (best kept secret when it comes to tone for the price!!!)
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play Hendrix,Clapton and SRV stuff and this pick up just nails their tone. Sounds really good clean or distorted whereas American standards would sound good clean but too weak for distortion. This pick up still has balls to it when distorted. It sounds almost like a fast track to me. Sounds best on position 5,4 and 1. Sounds too middy for the middle position.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Am. Std. Strat
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Blue L.S. in neck, Red L.S. in bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Supposedly Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton, though beyond the endorsements I think only Clapton actually uses them
You musical style(s):
Classic rock (meaning Hendrix, Floyd, Zeppelin, Who, etc.) and blues (of course)
Reason for pickup change:
I felt that the stock pickups were a bit weenie. At the time I didn’t know much about pickups; I only knew that I wanted more than I was getting.
Pickup features:
Single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
unknown impedance – transducer rather than polepiece pickups
Perceived output level:
More than stock pickups, and to my ears hotter than the Texas Specials (although with a different tone). Certainly less than the Red or Blue Lace Sensors.
Tone:
Thes pickups do not have the vintage Strat high end, which may explain the lack of noise. They are very balanced, but they do *not* reproduce the classic Strat sound as exactly as Fender said.
Sonic evaluation:
I am playing my ‘96 American Strat through a Fender Blues Junior, which is a very middy amp for a Fender. I love it, though. Anyway, first things first. These are *NOT* polepiece pickups. They use transducers, which means that they will pick up a *lot* more of your guitar’s inherent tone. My Strat is alder with a maple neck – it’s very middy when played acoustically, and so that’s what you get with the Lace Sensors. This is a key point, as I’ve read some reviews of the LS’s that really slammed them. The bottom line is: if your guitar itself has no tone, these pickups will only highlight its faults.
Secondly, these are not meant to be vintage *sounding* pickups. They are rather the LS’s with the closest output to a standard Strat pu.
Having said all that: the tone is very even, and may sound flat to a vintage freak. However, they are nevertheless very responsive and sensitive to playing technique. Unlike middy/muddy (depending on your outlook) polepiece pickups, the Gold LS’s have a *lot* of clarity. They also do have some spank to them, but I’d compare it more to an SRV kind of spank than Hendrix. I am using this pickup in the middle position (which it sounds great in, BTW – really revitalized an otherwise unused position), but I have messed around with switching it to the neck & bridge positions. In the neck it sounds fabulous – very good for solid overdriven blues as well as more laid-back playing – but it suffers a bit in the bridge. But since these aren’t individually wound for neck/mid/bridge, that’s to be expected. If you like the Lace Sensors, I’d put a Red in the Bridge to get a hotter output.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a lot of bluesy stuff (go figure) from clean to overdriven. For metal/hard rock I use my Les Paul (right tool for the right job, I always say Again, don’t use this pu in the bridge unless you want the same output level in all 3 positions (which you don’t whether or not you realize it).
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Standard
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
standard Delta Tone
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton, Buddy Guy
You musical style(s):
Blues,Blues and guess what–BLUES
Reason for pickup change:
No reason. Just wanted something different
Pickup features:
single coil passive or active
Impedence or other specs:
???????????????
Perceived output level:
a little hotter than Delta Tone, which are kind hot themselves
Tone:
Bluesy. kind of muddy if not carefull
Sonic evaluation:
I own a Fender Blues Junior and it makes my set-up sound so good.
My guitar also sounds excellant on anything else I use.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
If you have the write electronics, this is probably the ultamite blues pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
G&L S-500
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
neck/middle
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio Virtual Vintage Blues
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t Care
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups (G&L Magnetic Field) had good output, bite and twang but didn’t really cut it for overdriven/distorted sounds. Limited harmonics. Upper mids/trebles would get kinda knarly when distorted. Plus I was bored…
Pickup features:
Single coil size humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
no idea
Perceived output level:
About the same as stock.
Tone:
Good bass and mids. Somewhat on the bright side.
Sonic evaluation:
My guitar is an ash body G&L S-500 (maple fretboard) strung with Fender Original Bullets 10s. My amps are a Marshall 2204 head with Marshall 4×12 cab loaded with Vintage 30s and a JTM 30 1×12. For clean tests I plugged straight in to both amps, using only a clean channel setup. Initially, I had adjusted the Lace Sensors pretty close to the strings thinking that I’d get the best response and sensitivity to nuances of pick attack, palm muting and so forth. I guess my thinking was influenced by another player I know who got a great sound out of his Strat Plus with his Gold Lace Sensors. He actually sanded down the tops of the pickups covers to adjust his pickups closer to the strings! I didn’t want to get that extreme so I adjusted as close a was practical. The resulting sound was harsh and extremely bright (keep in mind that this was playing through a very clean amp). I lowered the pickups until I felt I had achieved (as near as I could) a vintage strat tone which I preference more than a modern sound. By the time I was done, the lace sensors were at least 3/8 of an inch lower than the starting position. I was a bit confused by this until I realized that the S-500 has different electronics than a standard Strat. For starters, it has a 500K volume pot with a bypass cap so I’m guaranteed a little more output and brightness than a Strat setup. Satified with the clean tone setup, I moved on the overdrive test phase. I setup my 2204 to break up slightly by cranking my volume or playing harder. I got a nice warm overdriven tone in the neck position and a good rock rythm tone in the middle. The neck/middle combination is interesting but doesn’t quack like a good single would. None of the neck/mid combinations had the classic Strat glass or chime that I love. These pickups have a peculiar quality to them that keeps me from replacing them immediately yet wishing they had a more vintage quality to them. These pickups don’t give me my Holy Grail tone. Very quiet with my setup. I’ll probably put up with them until I get bored again.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mostly blues, rock and some varied foll style music.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
All Gold Lace Sensors
Artists using this pickup:
Allegedly Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy, Me
You musical style(s):
Anything from the Beatles to Black Sabbath
Reason for pickup change:
I was sick of the typical Strat hum, so I heard these pick
ups were the way to go.
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
They have slightly higher output than the old single coils.
Tone:
These definitly are great sounding pick ups, but the bridge one by it self is a little too thin. Positions 2 through 5 sound pretty good, but each there is little tonal variation between adajacent pick ups.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using these pick ups in a Standard Stratocaster and running it through a solid state Peavey Bandit 75. Over all, these pick ups sound good distorted, but they are better clean or overdriven. When distorted, notes become somewhat muddy (as in argipeggios like Sabbath’s “Snowblind”).
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These pick ups are great for most stuff. I have been looking for an Eric Clapton or David Gilmour tone, and I think I’ve come pretty close.
Model of guitar or bass:
Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Gold Lace Sensor pickups of course!!!
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
supposedly-great artists who get paid enough by Fender
You musical style(s):
doesn’t matter what your music syle is…these pickup still suck…SO BAD!!!
Reason for pickup change:
harsh, thin, and all other crap you expect to get from a lousy pickup
Pickup features:
passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
5.7 – 5.9
Perceived output level:
doesn’t matter…
Tone:
brittle, dead, etc…
Sonic evaluation:
After I had put up with these pieces of shit for 2 years, I finally replaced them with SD Alnico II Pro’s. The difference is night and freaking day. Stock non-humcancelling single-coil pickups on other cheater stats even sound better than these. These pickups have nothing good in them except for the quack, maybe, which however you could get from ANY good/bad single coil pickups on a stat. These pickups are only good for death metal, where tones don’t matter much. They are very brittle and harsh. Be smart and don’t spend your hard-earned money on these.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
not a good match for any style of music I play…maybe a good match for death metal?!?
Model of guitar or bass:
‘95 Fender Stratocaster Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
all Gold Laces
Artists using this pickup:
not sure who uses just Golds exclusively
You musical style(s):
ambient hard-to-soft rock, wet surf sounds, progressive
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
single coil (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Maybe not as high output as many others; high point is clarity
Tone:
overall balanced but forgoes either extremity (no ultra-highs or lows)
Sonic evaluation:
I play my Strat Plus through a ‘96 Custom Shop Fender Vibro-King, a truly incredible amp. Alone, the Golds are very responsive to my playing in every way;they are very clear in their articulation of my hand techniques; such as palm muting, percussive picking, tremolo picking, etc. Though my amp is just 1-channel, it is clean at lower volumes. Around volume 3, it starts to overdrive a little bit. It seems the golds are perfect for this ratio of clean:dirty, and I end up getting a very jangly-type sound from the Golds. Again, clarity is the key point of this pickup,I believe. My favorite setting is in the neck position (All the way up on the 5-switch selector). This setting gives the Golds a bell-like tonal quality, with ample amounts of lows mingling with the highs. At this setting, the mids seem to be cut out, which I prefer anyway. In the bridge position, there is definitely not enough bass with the Golds, as has been stated already. The mid/bridge combo is interesting with this pickup, you get sort of a muffled mid-trebly response which is somewhat grainy in texture. This can be put to good use if used correctly, such as a bridge or chorus in an otherwise clean-toned song. The other settings are not worth mentioning as they are all pretty typical.
My effects are all benefitted by the Golds. My Ibanez Tube King distortion sounds creamy, milky smooth in the neck position, and my Demeter Tremulator, which doubles as an overdrive, helps me achieve the bell-like tone in that same position. My Lexicon Alex sounds warmer from the Golds, and the digital reverbs more realistic. Again, this is from the absolute clarity the Golds provide, while they don’t neccessarily color the tone much. My Alesis 3630 Compressor really dishes out mucho sustain, again thanks to the Laces. My DOD Fuzz again, sounds much much warmer.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Hard Rock/ Surf- good match! Golds are pretty useless in the bridge unless you have a bass boost coming from somewhere.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton, I think Corgan Of The Smashing Pumpkins Too…
You musical style(s):
Alternative-Rock-Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Stock Pickups Are Not Good!
Pickup features:
single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
a lot more than stock mexican strat pickups
Tone:
trebely / balanced
Sonic evaluation:
fender strat, tons of effects in chain before amp, and univox amp with trem.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
good for jazz, and i play lots of clean things, so this is great for that.
Model of guitar or bass:
Starrt Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
SINGLE COIL PASSIVE
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Vintahe recreation with an edge, without crappy battery boost.
Tone:
great combination of sounds and harmonics using same pickupswhich are positioned diffrently.
Sonic evaluation:
Roland Blues Cube BC30/210
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I use positions 2 and 4 ( mid way settings) on any Strat I’ve ever played.
Model of guitar or bass:
STRAT PLUS
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
ROCK,COUNTRY,BLUES
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
SINGLE
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
MEDIUM
Tone:
TREBLY
Sonic evaluation:
I FIND THE GOLD LACE TO BE GOOD IN THE NECK AND MIDDLE, IN THE BRIDGE THEY ARE A LITTLE THIN. THEY ARE VERY COHERENT UNDER HI GAIN
SITUATIONS AND THEY QUACK WELL DISTORTED. IN THE CLEAN MODE THEY ARE
USEABLE BUT NOT REALLY VINTAGE SOUNDING, THEY ARE QUIETER THAN SINGLES. I PLAY THROUGH A PRINCETON, PRINCETON CHORUS AND ROC-PRO.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
NOT FOR COUNTRY OR METAL(BRIDGE)
Model of guitar or bass:
Japanese Stratocaster
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender Blue Sensor(neck), Seymour Duncan JB Jr (bridge)
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
jazz, blues
Reason for pickup change:
The middle stock pickup on my Strat was practically worthless and never used
Pickup features:
Passive singe-coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
a little bit hotter than stock single-coils, nowhere near a humbucker
Tone:
very trebly, with some good mids thrown in
Sonic evaluation:
Playing a Japanese Strat from 1990 through a Fender Clasic 30 and a Boss Super Chorus pedal.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like playing blues & jazz. This pickup would work for rock, country, blues, and possibly metal (with some help)
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez Cimar
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Stock single coil
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender Standard Strat at the neck, Stock Humbucker in the bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, etc.
You musical style(s):
Rock, Alternative
Reason for pickup change:
Looking for a different sound
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Like a single coil, but is much clearer with more output
Tone:
Not as muddy as my old pickups. Sounds good clean, great distorted.
Sonic evaluation:
Using a Fender Bullet Reverb and a Boss CE-2 Chorus Pedal
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a lot of early 90s alternative stuff and this pickup sounds great. Good for Gish-era Smashing Pumpkins songs.
Model of guitar or bass:
Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
all Gold Lace
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy (and others who really care about their sound)
You musical style(s):
A little of every thing
Reason for pickup change:
came standard
Pickup features:
Single coil, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Slightly louder than the Standard Strat pickups
Tone:
Compared to Standard and Texas: Fuller, smother, more dynamic, much BETTER!
Sonic evaluation:
Use in combination with various Fender amps. Mostly clean.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Much better all-around pickup than any other Strat pickup, so all styles.
Model of guitar or bass:
‘93 Fender American Std. Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Fender single-coil
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
Whoever might be cold, unfeeling, lackluster and un-emotional
You musical style(s):
Rock/blues/some punk/no thrash/no metal
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups to noisy for studio, refuse to run a noise gate.
Pickup features:
Non-traditional ’sensor’, not coil-wound pickup
Impedence or other specs:
Not known
Perceived output level:
Puke
Tone:
Tone? What tone?
Sonic evaluation:
Marshall JCM900 dual-reverb, 2-12 Celestion cabinet “silverback” 30w, Danelectro “Daddy-O” overdrive pedal
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is well suited for use as an example of what to stay clear away from as far as a replacement for your Strat.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Eric Clapton Sig Strat,1989
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
came stock on the guitar
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton ,obviously,Buddy Guy, Jeff Beck
You musical style(s):
Blues ,blues rock ,jazz R&B
Reason for pickup change:
na
Pickup features:
Single coil with active 25db mid boost
Impedence or other specs:
dont know
Perceived output level:
The output is about what you would expect from a single coil.As I mentioned the guitar came stock with a 25db mid boost.So output is no proble
Tone:
very shallow.Has no life,for lack of better word.Just does not make me feel anything when I hear theese pickups.
Sonic evaluation:
E.C. Strat straight into either my Fender blues Junior,Marshall JTM30
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i like to play just about anything ,except metal .I guess theese pickups are suitable for anything really,if you dont want it to sound good.
Model of guitar or bass:
Carvin Bolt (hardtail, non-tremolo)
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Carvin AP-11s
Other pickups on guitar:
Carvin AP-11s (all positions; stock)
Artists using this pickup:
(allegedly) Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Jeff Beck, etc.
You musical style(s):
Jazz, Blues, Swing, Country
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Carvins were a little on the muddy side, as most overwound “hot” strat pickups are for me. Noise was less of a problem than most single-coils I’ve played, but still was present and reason for a little shopping around…
Pickup features:
single-coil, passive design
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Seem to have higher output than American Standard single coils, but definitely not quite into humbucker territory. They probably are close to the volume of the AP-11s, but their presence makes them seem much louder.
Tone:
They follow the classic single-coil tone curve really well. Highs are very clear and “snarly”, mid is subdued, and bass is tight and firm. They are very strong-sounding pickups throughout the guitar’s harmonic range.
Sonic evaluation:
I run this guitar into a Roland Blues Cube with a minimum of effects, usually just reverb and a touch of echo. To me, these pickups really carry playing dynamics well – little touches that I used to have to beat out of the guitar leap out of it like it’s playing itself. Wow! This capability ups the versatility of these pickups about one-thousand fold, and they are equally at home in blues, `50s-rock, country, and psychedelia.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These really seem more like a well-engineered cross between vintage Strat pickups and active systems (ala EMG). The good parts of each seem to be here: that wonderful vintage tone we all love, yet with the increased output, clarity and presence of a high-tech pickup. These might not do SRV really well, but neither will normal single coils. If you like the many things OTHER THAN SRV that strats can do, these will cover you very well.
Model of guitar or bass:
American Strat
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
All Sensors Blue/Gold/Red
Artists using this pickup:
Mr. Corgan, tone god
You musical style(s):
Rock mainly
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Probably about as hot as the stocks, maybe slightly hotter
Tone:
Balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Bass Man with some personal mods to the cab
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender U.S.A. Stratocaster Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
All the same
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Billy Corgan, Ed O’Brien (Radiohead)
You musical style(s):
I go from blues to tripped out space rock
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted the best clean sound that I could get
Pickup features:
single coil (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
N/A
Perceived output level:
Nothing special. The output is dead compared to the Gibson ‘57 re-issue hummers
Tone:
real mid range, bridge seems sharp
Sonic evaluation:
I play these pickups in the Strat Plus w/ a Boss Digital Delay/Pitch
Shifter and multiple types of wah petals. My amp is a Mesa/Boogie
Trem-o-Verb Dual recto.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This guitar is a great match for clean blues and this space rock era sound. I would strongly not recommend this pickup to a metalhead or someone looking for a high output pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
Westone
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock high gain pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
single coil staggered
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Beck
You musical style(s):
Various
Reason for pickup change:
I made this change because I wanted to have a better rythym sound near my bridge. I found this pickup at my local store reasonable. I thought it would replace the usual stock heavey metal sound with something more classice Strat yet quiet since it is a humbucker
Pickup features:
Dual gold fender lace
Impedence or other specs:
nada
Perceived output level:
so-so classic sounding with the volume slightly reduced. Very controled nice heavey alternative distortion sound.
Tone:
Trebly but full. Good mid-range- medium response
Sonic evaluation:
I have a Westone guitar . I play through Art multi effects- Boss-ds1 distortion. My amp is a Fender Prinston Chorus
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
My wierd configuration allows me to play Rockibilly, blues, Folk, and alternative rock
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
all gold lace sensors
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton uses same ones in his Strat
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, classic rock, blues
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted a better tone than stock single coil pickups.
Pickup features:
Single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
dont know
Perceived output level:
These pickups aren’t particularly hot, they excel at clean and vintage Strat type sounds, no matter what position. There are ok with distortion but best for clean.
Tone:
They seem to give a bit more output and a little more midrange than stock single coil Fender pickups. Not a huge difference in tone, though. I’m thinking of going for the Blue/Silver/Red setup instead for more versatility.
Sonic evaluation:
I use it with my Marshall 30th anniversary head and a 2×12 cab, I am able to achieve a nice clean tone through this amp even though Marshall’s weren’t known for their clean. Not bad with distortion, but could be better.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like everything from the Beatles to Metallica and everything in between. It doesn’t do the heavy metal sound very well, but its good for regular rock/ vintage strat tones.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
Gold Lace Sensors
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Billy Corgan (red lace sensors)
You musical style(s):
Just about anything
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Single Coil size passive pickups
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
LOW LOW LOW, my guitar teacher constantly complained to me to turn my volume up when it was already on 10.
Tone:
brittle in bridge, but a wonderful sound in the neck and mid positions
Sonic evaluation:
i use my strat plus through a Marshall JCM-900 SL-X head and when i plugged it all in, the neck sounded really good, but the bridge became an brittle piece of crap that never got used, so i ripped out the bridge pickup and put in an EMG-81 pickup and i am pleased, i can go from metal to blues with a flip of the pickup selector (my dream guitar, i now like my strat better than my Les Paul Custom).
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Modern Rock, Blues, whatever i feel like at the moment. This is unsutable for Modern Rock and Metal unless you have the red lace sensors.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender U.S.A Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Clapton & a few others
You musical style(s):
Pink Floyd to Stevie Ray to Metallica
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
single coil-passive
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know
Perceived output level:
Less output than some other single coils I’ve heard
Tone:
somewhere b/t treble and mid
Sonic evaluation:
When playing my strat plus through a Fender stage 120 I was only
satisfied with the sound about 55% of the time. Sounds real good
in the 4th position when clean. Not much when trying to roll out
some distortion filled chords.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
If you’re strictly into blues and other clean sounds -it’s an pretty good pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender U.S. Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock on this model
Other pickups on guitar:
N/A
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck
You musical style(s):
Rock, Blues, country
Reason for pickup change:
Wouldn’t dream of changing these
Pickup features:
Single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
perceivably hotter than traditional strat single coils
Tone:
lots of mid-range warmth
Sonic evaluation:
I’m playing this strat through a Fender Blues DeVille (60 watts into
2 12’s). I love this guitar because it remedies all the problems that
kept me away from strats in the past, i.e. old single coils
that lack punch when played with balsy amp distortion,
tons of noise and hum, the feeling like they’re getting lost
when you’re wailing away through a Marshall. Lace Sensors are great for me. . .
they’re warm and capable of punching through on stage at high amp output.
And it sounds like the strat we all know and love, but without the headaches.
I wouldn’t hesitate to run this though a Marshall or an AC-30 to explore the tonal colors.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Stay away from these babies if you really want a Les Paul/Marshall sound.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat Elite
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Lace Gold
Other pickups on guitar:
2 other golds
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton and alot of others
You musical style(s):
Alternative, Rock/Classic
Reason for pickup change:
Okay i will admit now i don’t know that much about pickups, but i
do know a lot about the sounds of guitars and i find the sound of lace sensors
very fake like almost a piano, you hit the key and get the same sound everytime.
I had 3 single coils and switched them for the hum-cancelling sound but
they sound like shit. I think i am going to put a good dimarzio stack humbucker in the
bridge.
Pickup features:
Single
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
They are way to HOT!!! I can’t even change cords without getting the rubbing sound.
Tone:
I find them really trebly.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a Princeton Plus, and a Fender Elite Strat. When i am close to the amp
i get just as much noise as single coils and no it is not because of bad grounding because
i had it grounded when they were putting them on. When i am farther away i cant complain they
quiet.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like to play older stuff like; Sabbath, Zeplin, and try to play Hendrix but in my band i play Alternative rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Squier Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
DiMarzio HS-3 Stacked Humbucker (Neck position)
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton
You musical style(s):
Classic Rock, Blues Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Squier stock pickups SOUND like econo-pickups.
Pickup features:
Single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
Beats me…
Perceived output level:
Slightly more output
Tone:
Great tone on all levels
Sonic evaluation:
Sounds very SG-ish, without the humbucker overall thickness. Clean (I use a Fender Solid State amp) they have great mid response, sparkling highs from the bridge position, a nice round sound from the middle. The distortion is decent for a single coil, even on low gain settings. The sound is very Hendrix or Cream-era Clapton. Awesome, awesome pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Hard rock and heavy metal players might try the Red, the Gold doesn’t scream as well
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender US strat plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
all gold lace sensors.
Artists using this pickup:
billy corgan, jeff beck, eric clapton
You musical style(s):
anything but country.
Reason for pickup change:
I purchased this guitar because i was looking for one with
a great clean sound for the money. I tested a jeff beck
model and the strat plus on a small fender all tube combo.
the jeff beck strat had the dually gold lace sensor at the
bridge. there is also a button on that guitar to activate
the dually. i really didn’t notice much of a difference at
all. it was like, there was a small tonal change, but it
was still a sound i could get by tinkering around with the
dually turned off. so i went with the strat plus considering
that it was $300 less.
Pickup features:
it is a passive single coil style.
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
very clear sounds for clean channel jamming. sounds best on an all tube amp.
Tone:
you can get all sorts of different sounds with the 5 way selector switch and the 2 tone knobs.
Sonic evaluation:
i really like my 3 gold lace sensors. i wish i had another strat that
i could modify with other lace sensors. when i purchased my guitar,
the only guitars with lace sensors at guitar center had gold lace
sensors, i really wish that i would have been able to compare
different ones, but i liked the golds too much to not buy it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
none
Model of guitar or bass:
Lotus Strat Copy
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Lotus
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups sounded like crap!
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
About the same as the old pu’s
Tone:
Fullbodied in the neck and mid. Thin and weak in the neck
Sonic evaluation:
There was a definite improvement in tone in the neck and mid positions.
Very nice clear sound, no noise at all. The bridge sounded very thin
and too trebely. I’m going to swap it out for a different Lace Sensor.
The clean sounds are really great. They complement my amp very nicely
because of the low noise (Line 6). 200% improvement in tonal satisfaction
in the neck and mid position. The neck was somewhat dissappointing though.
If you are going to get them, get them for the neck and mid only…they sound
great in these positions. Distortion sounds OK but this is why I have a Les Paul.
I use the Lace Sensors for clean tones only maybe slightly overdriven.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Deathmetal
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat Plus w/ rosewood fingerboard
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Many, which I cannot explain
You musical style(s):
Praise & Worship; a little blues
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
A tad more than standard single coils
Tone:
well-balanced
Sonic evaluation:
I hated them. They were sterile and lifeless. Yuck. I couldn’t wait to replace them with Duckbuckers. I wish I could say something good about them, but I can’t. Why some people love these things, I’ll never know.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Probably metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
Squire II Strat(a.k.a. PIECE OF SHIT)
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Squir stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Squir stock
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton
You musical style(s):
Rock(from classic to punk)
Reason for pickup change:
I had shity pickups before and this one kicks major ass.
Pickup features:
Passive single coil pickup.
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
normal
Tone:
Slightly thinner than a Humbucker.
Sonic evaluation:
Does anything you want
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
all of them
Model of guitar or bass:
strat+
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
all gold lace
Artists using this pickup:
eric clapton, buddy guy, jeff beck
You musical style(s):
alternative, rock, anything else except country (i hate it)
Reason for pickup change:
didn’t change
Pickup features:
single, active
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
about normal
Tone:
anything you want, depends on the config
Sonic evaluation:
i was shoping for a great sounding guitar, and great pickups. the only thing that i would change, is to put a humbucking lace sensor on it
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
sounds good on all styles, but i haven’t tried country yet. great for all positions.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat Plus
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
Same
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy
You musical style(s):
Diverse; whatever is in my head at the moment
Reason for pickup change:
Or rather, reason for not changing
Pickup features:
Single Coil (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
FIIK
Perceived output level:
About the same as Amer. Standard pickups (normal for Single coil)
Tone:
Clear, well-balanced tone in all positions
Sonic evaluation:
These pickups don’t seem to “color” the sound of my Strat +, but to simply and accurately reproduce the sound of the instrument itself.
My Strat is a “live” one, with a fairly loud, ‘woody’ tone even when played acoustically (I guess I got a good one). The notes are clear and
the sustain is great (for a trem-equiped Strat). I think the Gold Sensors do the instrument justice. They aren’t “jangly” or “ballsy” , but
are full-sounding. I find that, with the guitar tone controls and the amp tone controls (and those of any pedals in between) there really is
no justification in replacing the pickups. If I find a used Silver Lace Sensor at a decent price I may experiment with it in the bridge position.
But aside from that, I’m completely satisfied with the Gold.
And here’s a tip: Pre-amp the pick-up output( about 70 MV) up to the level of
a humbucker (about 200MV) before feeding it into your amp. Make sure
the pre-amp you use gives EQUAL boost across the ENTIRE frequency range.
Then your Strat will kick like a mule and drive your amp harder. I use
an EMG PA-2 pre-amp (about $35.00)pre-set to a 250 mv output level when
the guitar is at full volume. The Buddy Guy Strat has a variable full-frequency
pre-amp, but not the Eric Clapton (which only boosts mid-range).
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
All; it is IMO the most versatile of the Lace Sensors and Eric, Jeff, and Buddy all seem to agree.
Model of guitar or bass:
USACG Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
New Construction
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
None that I know of
You musical style(s):
All
Reason for pickup change:
New guitar build.
Pickup features:
Single Coil Passive
Impedence or other specs:
5.5K
Perceived output level:
Percieved output is slightly higher than the stock pups in my US reissue.
Tone:
Very balanced with a nice woody tone. Sounds great clean AND distorted.
Sonic evaluation:
I’ve played them through non-mastervolume Marshalls, Tweed Deluxe, Deluxe Reverb, etc.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock, blues.
Model of guitar or bass:
Home made Strats.
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Just put them in home made Strats.
Other pickups on guitar:
Just my 69’s!
Artists using this pickup:
????????????
You musical style(s):
Neo-Classical/Metal,Metal,Hard Rock,Blues,Classic Rock,Fusion.
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted an exact Jimi Hendrix/Robin Trower tone that had great highs and booming bass/nice mids.
Pickup features:
Passive single coil.
Impedence or other specs:
????????????
Perceived output level:
Great sounding Strat replacement pick ups. Has more punch than the Texas Specials with more bass boom.
Tone:
Clear,powerful,boomy and bright.
Sonic evaluation:
Strat to S.D.Pickup Booster,VHT Valvulator,Digitech RP-12,Hush pedal,Digitech RP-1,DBX 563X,VHT Valvulator,J.Dunlop Vol-Booster,to rack(1)ETA Power Conditioner,BBE 462,Hush 2CX,2 DOD 31 band EQ’s ,Behringer Feedback Destroyer Pro 1124,Hush 2CX,BBE 462 to rack (2)Monster Cable power conditioner,Hush/Rocktron Super C,BBE 362 and split the signal to the front and effects loop of my Carvin X-100 B.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great in clean and has more punch in distortion mode than the Texas Specials.
Model of guitar or bass:
Mexican Strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Original PIckups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Blues, Funk
Reason for pickup change:
Old Pickups were to “poppy”, no sustain, just not that great. Wanted a real strat tone.
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hotter output than stock pickups. Not as much as my P-90 retrofits in my SG.
Tone:
Real nice bass, tons of highs.
Sonic evaluation:
Playing it through a Sound City 50 Plus with a 6×10 cabinet. Ibanez Ts9 tube screamer. I mean I put them in, and now this guitar sounds like a real stratocaster. The guitar came alive. Its now a different machine. I have never heard any of the other custom shop pickups, but these suit my tastes. Lots of low end, middle a plenty, and treble to kill. With my Epiphone sg that I put kent armstrong retrofit p-90’s (see other review), I had bass on 5, middle full and treble full. I had to bring the treble down a little for the strat and put the bass up a little. I love this guitar sounds now. I reccomend them. Each selection has a very different and useful tone.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play hard rock, blues style music, these babies are a perfect match.
Model of guitar or bass:
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Hendrix Tribute lefty body/ reissue ‘69 lefty neck
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
I had the CS’54’s in this guitar
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
blues/ country/rock
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted to complete the ‘69 vibe! The CS’54s are in another guitar with ‘54 neck and body and sound great too!
Pickup features:
3 passive single coils
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know
Perceived output level:
seem to have more output than the CS’54, not as much as Texas Specials, but that’s fine.
Tone:
I was pleasantly surprised. The CS’54s are really good, and i liked them, so i hoped i was not degrading the sound of this guitar. I certainly was not. The sound is crisp, clean, articulate and lively. I find nothing negative about these pups. I changed the .1mF that i had with the CS’54 for a .022mF, which some reviewer suggested, and i find that sound brightened up nicely, it was a bit dark. It has a really glassy sound now, which is what i was shooting for. I also always modify the tone control to operate the bridge, which i find to be a must. In this case, with the caps installed, the tone control is really responsive and has greater range.
Sonic evaluation:
I use it with a Deluxe Reverb or a Blues Junior. I prefer the Deluxe, but the Junior is fun too! The Deluxe and the ’69s make for a great combo! I also plug into a PODxt, and i have been very satisfied with the recorded sound i get!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pick up is suitable for all positions. I like them all! There seems to be a greater distinction in sound between the different positions compared to other pups.
Model of guitar or bass:
‘54 Reissue
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
blues and blues based rock
Reason for pickup change:
The never ending tone quest. What other reason is there?
Pickup features:
Passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
range between 5.65 to 5.75, 2 Ohenries
Perceived output level:
Not as much output as I expected, but about equal with the custom ’54’s, but could be slightly less.
Tone:
Very different from the custom ’54’s. More bass in the neck and neck/mid positions. Bridge pickup is more useful now that I have added tone control to it (an ultra simple mod). The 5 positions now offer very different sounds. Lots of variety.
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Strat ‘54 Reissue (GHS Boomers, 12’s)—>MXR Dynacomp (script logo), Maxon OD808 (reissue), Ibanez TS808, MXR Distortion Plus (script logo), Maxon AD80 delay, MXR 6 band EQ, MXR Noise Gate (script logo)—> 1959 and 1960 Tweed Fender Princetons (one wet).
Like I mentioned above, all 5 positions now sound very distinctive and offer a WIDE variety of tones. With my pedal / amps, I find endless combinations that sound pleasing. I can really hear what’s going on with my hands. It may sound far out, but by really hearing what’s going on with my left hand, I somehow feel more fluid, more relaxed and it comes through in the sound, which of course makes me feel even more relaxed, and so on. The day I had these pickups installed, I stayed up the whole night playing. Very inspiring.
There is no RWRP on the middle pickup, which means there is no hum cancelling in positions 2 and 4. The good news is that this also means you get the genuine strat “quack” which you cannot get with hum cancelling RWRP pups. Sheild your guitar and any noise will be tolerable. Check guitarnuts.com for instructions, but you don’t have to go as crazy as that site suggests. Just sheild the cavities and the pickguard and make sure they connect. The difference will be very noticeable and worth the effort/expense. Call a local guitar shop to do it for you if you really want to make it easy.
I used a .022uf tone cap, which is a much lower value than would have been used in 1969, but I find the higher value caps (.047uf to .1uf) to be too dark sounding with these pickups. I really like to use the tone knobs and the .022uf gives me lots of range. As noted above, I modded my 5 way to allow tone control on the bridge pickup. My god why doesn’t fender do this to all strats? Bell tones from heaven.
Abigail’s initials and date on the grey bottoms gives these pickups a real vintage vibe. I am searching for a late 60’s reissue to move these pickups into. I will restore my ‘54 to stock once I do find a donor. I just loaded a new pickguard with the ’69s and swapped it in for the original, which had the solder broken at the input jack before I purchased it, so don’t think I’m some kind of butcher, I just couldn’t wait to try these pups.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like Hendrix type tones, Mike Mcready (of Pearl Jam) and just about any blues based rock. This set of pups can cover that ground nicely.
Model of guitar or bass:
65 Reissue Stratocaster Hardtail
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Standard Fnder Single Coils
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
Jimi Hendriks
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Improve tonal response of the guitar
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Medium output
Tone:
Glassy, very clear highs and lows
Sonic evaluation:
I use these pickups with a 65 Twin Reverb and a 135 Watt Showman Head and matching Fender cabinet and the sound is just awesome. Makes my guitar really sound like a Fender even at high levels unlike the current crop of standard fender pickups which are not quite like the vintage ones.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Excellent match for delta and chicago blues playing.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Jimi Hendrix Woodstock Strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Special Reverse staggered American Vintage Reissue pups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rock, Sessions
Reason for pickup change:
Got these real cheap.
Pickup features:
S/C’s
Impedence or other specs:
5.5k
Perceived output level:
Medium/low output
Tone:
More middle and slightly more poke than vintage strat pickups, but less clangy and dominating than Texas Specials
Sonic evaluation:
Using Vintage Marshall 1/2 stack, and blackface bassman with 4×10. All I could want in a strat pickup. Sounds like a strat should, only more……….clearer, more shimmering, but still more poise and balance. All positions sound great. Abigail Ybarra did an awesome job! My strat sounded great before (it’s a nice one) – it ALWAYS recieved complements about it’s tone, but now it sounds so much better
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
All styles of music. When heights are set right (nice and low) very even transition from position to position.
Model of guitar or bass:
Japanese 57 vintage Stratocaster RI
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Japanese ceramic bar pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups were not at all focused and they didn’t get the right sound but look like they are supposed to.
Pickup features:
Single coil
Impedence or other specs:
DC resistance 5.8k inductance 2.2 henries
Perceived output level:
Medium output
Tone:
Very balanced with uniform output from pickup to pickup
Sonic evaluation:
Stratocaster with vintage Fender blackface amps and Dr. Z.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock and blues style is what I play. These pickups are a very good match as they are clean but have more than enough output for most styles. Pickups sound fine in all positions.
Model of guitar or bass:
1999 American Standard with Maple Neck
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
CS ‘54
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender CS 54’s
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Wide range – blues, rock, jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted less mid’s and more dynamics on the neck pup
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
5.8k
Perceived output level:
Vintage strat output (5.8k) slightly less than the ‘54 (5.9k)
Tone:
Clear and dynamic (more presence than the ‘54)
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great for everything but metal
Model of guitar or bass:
custom 54 strat copy
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
all
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
??
You musical style(s):
blues rock
Reason for pickup change:
only had some crappy jap pickups before
Pickup features:
single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
relatively quiet
Tone:
balanced
Sonic evaluation:
strat through Trace Elliot Trident (100w valve combo)
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Eric Johnson, SRV stuff, not enough power in any position
Model of guitar or bass:
MIM 60’s Classic Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock MIM pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
N/A
Artists using this pickup:
Hendrix (the originals of course)
You musical style(s):
Blues, Classic Rock, Top 40 type alternative
Reason for pickup change:
Stock ones too bland. Only good for squeaky clean tone. Abigail Ybarra winds the 69’s in Fender’s Custom Shop (with Fender since ‘58).
Pickup features:
Single Coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
6.0K?
Perceived output level:
A little less than most Custom shop pickups out there
Tone:
Very clean vintage Strat tone that can still cut it when overdriven. Plenty of thumpin’ lows, clear highs (more like presence instead of trebly.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m running this through a 94 Blues Deluxe and/or ‘66 Fender Princeton Reverb. Better used with a Tube Screamer pedal instead of your usual Distortion pedal. I think the tone is better when also used with any Fender Blackface amp like the Princeton, Twin, Deluxe, you know.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good match for old Hendrix, Cream, anything from the 60’s. Get Delta Tone pickups if your looking for a more modern sound.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Stratocaster Plus
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Lace Sensor Gold
Other pickups on guitar:
Lace Sensor Gold
Artists using this pickup:
-
You musical style(s):
Coverband – any style
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted fatter sound for rock/metal
Pickup features:
Single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
High
Tone:
Mids enhanced.
Sonic evaluation:
Koch multitone
Tonelab SE line
Bassman 50 SF + 4×12 Greenback
The bridge QP has its own on/off switch per the Seymour duncan diagram, to enable a “tele” bridge+neck option as well as all 3 mics.
My previous problem during certain was that the bridge pick was too thin and trebly for heavily distorted sounds and also for rock playing. Usually I ended up using the neck PU to beef up the sound, at the expense of “boominess”.
The PU makes the guitar lose some of its typical Stratocaster quacky identity but makes the instrument much more versatile.
I got some hum problems that I did not have before. Could be the wiring or the fact that I can run the amp at higher gain and not have the thin bitey sound.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It makes the Stratocaster more versatile and the previously useless bridge mic now is totally useable!
Model of guitar or bass:
custom build tele style
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
EMG 89-sa-sa with boosters
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
blackmore
You musical style(s):
rock (top 40)
Reason for pickup change:
tired of the sound i had
Pickup features:
tele-strat-strat
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
the output was higher then expected
Tone:
lots of chuncky bass, powerfull mids and highs, real balanced
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a rig, but the heart is a mesa quad preamp. I try to keep the sound as steady and pure as it can be. Being a pro(125 gigs a year) for the last 11 years, i’ve tried a lot of stuff amps,pups,fx etc,I do believe that boogie and seymour duncan are a perfect match.
I’ve got 2 custom build guitars with seymour’s 1 is a LP with 59 zebra’s, the other one (my main axe) is a tele/strat style babe with quarter pounds. in the tele i use the flat QP’s bridge tele middle rev strat neck strat they are shielded so almost hummfree and i’ve got a compicated electronic setup.
This tele has got a lot of sound since it is build from the best woods and hardware available. As a real blackmore fan I gave the QP a shot and damned what they did to my babe is unbelievable what a uge fat sound it’s def not vintage but i wasn’t seaking for that.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
rock 70’s 80’s and as a proffesion top 40 guitarist
Model of guitar or bass:
2001 US series Telecaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock fender neck pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
quarter pound lead
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
hard and classic rock
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted a more driving sound in the neck to match the quarter pound lead I was getting and it sounded good on the soundfile.
Pickup features:
single coil, no tap
Impedence or other specs:
11.8k ohms
Perceived output level:
It is hotter than the stock pickup more midrange noticeably less high end sparkle.
Tone:
lots of true mids which is fine by me because the top end still sparkles enough
Sonic evaluation:
Silverface Fender Twin Reverb, 64 vibro-champ, and bullet reverb(rarely). It is a rythym pickup no more or less. It can be VERY bluesy with the right amp settings. My only problem is the same on mentioned earlier with the smaller polepieces so the sound isn’t exactly how I hoped.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
hard rock and classic rock are what I play and this pickup does a very good job of cranking out those rythym sounds. It excels at blues on a properly eq-ed amp.
Model of guitar or bass:
fender and squier strats
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
whatever gets in the way(exept dim’zio ft-2’s)
Other pickups on guitar:
see "positions","other p/up’s"
Artists using this pickup:
i think "the edge" uses 1 of these(flat) in br/pos on ’70’s blk/mpl strat
You musical style(s):
most/many rock styles(see dimzio fs-2)
Reason for pickup change:
i first tried these(’86ish-stags) in an ‘84(usa)’62 re-ish.i thought i wanted hs-3’s,but salesman said they were muddy.still wanted this guitar to sound “like a strat”,but with more “push”.i didn’t seek the option of tapped,but maybe shoulda.put stags in nk/br w/ no mid p/up(at all},& 3-way switch(long live yngwie & richie).’62 strat re-ish was too “tame”,but that was before 2xn21.tried hot rails (n&B) when they came out,but went back to 1/4 stags.it just seemed to me that you could run a hot rails between 2 in-coming residential lines & it would sound the same.absolutely no “character” what-so-ever,just full-blast whatever.see dimz’o ft-2 review.just wanted more pure strat tone(alder body,maple neck).see below…….
Pickup features:
single-coil,xl (5/6 mm?) polepieces,availiable tapped(but this review is not,but these were in front of me,& stock(flat)2x on a richie blackmore (import.signature,bolt(3point)-on,neck&bridge only{see review}.just from my personal x-perence,tapped is a good option.
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know-high-output(but not hi-gain) p/ups(characteristic s/c tones,but versatile nonetheless,even more versatile w/ taps(i’m assuming).
Perceived output level:
these are strat p/up’s on steroids-more of everything.i dial out the 60-cycle hum on my pre-amp(rocktron voodoo valve).just sounds like a very good(think opposite of gibson ‘57 classic) strat .
Tone:
to my ears,these are very balanced p/ups.i have actually found that i prefer stags at the neck & flats at the bridge.on 1 guitar i even had the neck position re-routed so i could spin the p/up to a lefty-read,but for me flats are better for mids& push.but stags would be better in neck &/or middle positions.
Sonic evaluation:
becoz’ noise is not an issue for me(rocktron rules!!!),i really like these p/ups.they’re sassy but classic,very “tasteful” & “respectful”,but still can go over-the-edge(tube screamer) with a lot of attitude.they just sound really good,but since i need more br/pos “oomph” (personally) they can be easily misinterpreted as a “dist-class” p/up.this it is not!just a lot more great strat tone!if you’re looking for more “strat-sparkle” try the stags.if you want more of a ’70’s vibe try the flats(imho).i would say to get the tapped version just ‘coz i didn’t,it would/will probably increase the versatility ,even if you have to grow into the option.these also mix(2&4) well with higher output humbuckers.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
most rock styles;"suitable" for all positions.
Model of guitar or bass:
Robin Ranger
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Robin Tele Type PUP ( Not the muy grande )
Other pickups on guitar:
Fat Ass fender humbucker in the neck
Artists using this pickup:
Me, Myself and Irene
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rock, Country, Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Built the guitar from pieces. The old stock tele style pickup bit the big one. Had the QP hanging around and decided to put it to use after 20 years of rest in my guitar goodie box.
Pickup features:
Passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Close to twice the output of a regular strat style pu.
Tone:
Crisp, trebley high end. Of course, it is in the bridge position. It sounded crisp and bassy when it was in the neck position of my strat several decades ago.
Sonic evaluation:
Run into Real Tube, Vox Valve Tone, Danelctro Fab Tone, arion delay, to Roland Blues Cube 60. The QP is as loud as the old fender humbucker in the neck position. Both PUPs wired to faders, so I can blend between the two. This baby screams. Sounds hot. Very harmonicly warm and balanced. Good distorted sound. Use it by itself and add the HB in about 1/3 to bring in some smoothness.The QP balances very well the the large ass fender HB. The clean sound is bright, bright, bright. False harmonics snap off this baby clean or distorted. Very tele like in the clean mode.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is great for blues and classic rock. I can also get some excellent death metel sounds when running the real tube into the fab tone.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender 89 American Deluxe
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
not sure
You musical style(s):
New grunge, new punk, new metal //all mixed up
Reason for pickup change:
My old stock pickups were the loudest bitches I ever heard(as far as feedback) the feedback never ended! So it was time for change. Also they sounded very thin.
Pickup features:
Single coil, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
go to the Seymour Duncan homepage
Perceived output level:
Hotter with less hum and higher output
Tone:
Very Balanced. They sound great. Very even with higher output than most other single coils. Although the bridge is missing the bass I hoped for.
Sonic evaluation:
I am currently using a Crate Gx 140d which is a pretty powerful solid state amp. These pickups sound great in fact a lot better than I Thought they would. For the last year our so i just didn’t enjoy playing my fender because of the stock pickups. I would usually play it for a minute then switch to my Ibanez s470. It was more of a hassle than a joy to play the fender because of the feedback and the nasty sound they gave. But installing these pickups changed all that. Even though I still play my Ibanez more it’s not because the fender sounds bad (it sounds great) its because it’s got this damn bur and it breaks strings like crazy. I need to get a new nut! the pickups are great but the still hum a little.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This a great pickup really for any type of music although for metal I suggest investing in a humbucker
Model of guitar or bass:
89 American Standard Tele
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
stock pickup was dying a slow death
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
About twice as hot as the stock
Tone:
Not as trebly or twangy as the stock, but very full
Sonic evaluation:
Dean Markley 40-watt tube head into a fender 4-10 cabinet.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Straight up rock and roll, some heavy metal
Model of guitar or bass:
Carvin Bolt (kit)
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Carvin AP-11 SC
Other pickups on guitar:
SD Stag-Mag and Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Blues with some jazz, classic rock, and rockabilly
Reason for pickup change:
Building a new guitar
Pickup features:
Tapped, staggered magnet, single coil
Impedence or other specs:
See SD Web Site for details
Perceived output level:
High output single coil, taps to about 1/2 output
Tone:
Balanced, hot, single coil tone, close to vintage Strat sound when tapped.
Sonic evaluation:
This pickup is often billed as a P90 sound in a standard single coil package. Well…it comes close to it, but it’s not quite there. The high output allows it to compete volume-wise with humbuckers. There’s no need to boost your signal when you switch from a humbucker to this pickup. When tapped, it comes closer to a vintage strat pickup sound, although it sounds a little hollow compared to the real thing (could be the guitar more than the pickup itself though).
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This would be a good choice for just about any style where you wanted a high output single coil. I think it would be equally at home with punkish grooves as it would be with a blues solo.
Model of guitar or bass:
Japanese Fender Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Japanese Strat Single Coil
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Ritchie Blackmore?
You musical style(s):
Good ‘ol Rock n’ Roll, Blues, A little Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The Japanese Strat pickups are actually beautiful, except for the bridge which hurt to listen to by itself because it was so shrill and trebly.
Pickup features:
Single Coil with Huge Pole Pieces
Impedence or other specs:
High Impedence and Hot
Perceived output level:
Much hotter than stock, about 1 and 3/4 times as hot.
Tone:
fatter and less of the super highs associated with strat bridge p.u.’s
Sonic evaluation:
Using a Fender Hot Rod DeVille, It overdrive’s nicely on the gain channel, but also sounds very nice clean, even on its own.
It still has great single coil sound and blends in nicely with the mid position. Still gets good quack. It’s got a lot of bass response and is, for lack of a better word, punchy.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Whatever you would use a single coil-equipped strat for. It handles metal, but a humbucker would really be better for that. Good for blues.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Richie Blackmore Signature Strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
Richie Blackmore
You musical style(s):
British Hard Rock, Blues
Reason for pickup change:
It came with the guitar.
Pickup features:
Single
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
About the same as Fender Texas Special
Tone:
Very balanced. Less treble than regular Fender single coils. Clear enough for me, even with overdrive sound
Sonic evaluation:
Strat + Matchless Hot Box + Marshall JCM900 50W
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
British Hard Rock, Blues. This is good for Hard Rock Single Sound, such as late 70s Rainbow.
Model of guitar or bass:
Washburn Strat copy
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Hot Rails Bridge in neck, stock middle
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
rock, blues, jazz
Reason for pickup change:
stock bridge was very weak and microphonic.
Pickup features:
passive, 3 conductor single coil with humbucker type output, flat, 1/4 inch wide polepieces
Impedence or other specs:
reads 7.7k resistance (slightly above average output)
Perceived output level:
run tapped, slightly louder than the previous stock single coil.
Tone:
slightly less highs than previous pickup. fatter and warmer sounding, with slightly more hum.
Sonic evaluation:
Using this with a modified, late ’70s Silverface Twin Reverb. I was going for more of a Telecaster sound, and while this pickup isn’t your prototypical Telecaster type of pickup, I’ve jury-rigged it to sound something like it by cutting a piece of steel and putting that in the bridge pickup cavity (universal rout.) Third ground conductor does to this steel bottom plate. Bought this used, and it appears to be very old and very well worn – the polepieces are flat (possibly ground down? they extend maybe only 1/16″ from the face of the pickup.) The pickup, with the cover, is a little wider than the normal single coil – had to install it without the cover in order for it to fit (makes no difference sonically.) I run this pickup at half power, tapped through half of the windings. It’s noticeably fatter with less highs than the previous stock single coil. The piercing highs are still there, but there’s also some mids and lows to balance it out more – in all, slightly more like a Tele bridge pickup. I’ve heard some who say the Quarter Pounder is supposed to be a Strat sized P90, but I don’t really hear it (maybe it’s because I only run it at half power, but even still, that huge, gritty P90 sound isn’t there.) The tone, although it does have more noise and hum than the other pickups, is balanced and complex – I usually play with the bridge pickup only, and with different picking positions/techniques, can get a wide variety of sounds, from icepick treble to warm, smooth fatness. Sounds terrific with position four (bridge+middle), it gets this wonderful, thin trebly sound that works well for clean lines or jangly rhythm. This is pickup also works well with distortion – the sound is chunky, but with the grinding highs. I run it into a cranked Twin, and the blues sound is terrific.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
good match for rock/blues, would work well in a country setting with some tweaking. Not enough bass for jazz type playing, but you could probably get away with it. Run at full power, it would probably make a good metal pickup also.
Model of guitar or bass:
Guitar (Guitar Factory Custom Bermuda
Special)
Position:
Neck
Pickup being replaced:
EMG SA
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan JB Humbucker in bridge position
(also using an EMG onboard
preamp on the guitar, a lot easier
than messing with those
stupid stompboxes!)
Artists using this pickup:
don’t know, don’t care!
Your musical style(s):
Rock/Anything but country
Reason for pickup change:
Recently swapped out bridge pickup (EMG 81)
for a JB jumbucker (see my earlier review of the JB Humbucker) and
still had the EMG SA in the neck position. The emg and the jb
humbucker had two totally different sounds, the emg being too dry and
sterile. I wanted something compatible with the JB humbucker.
Pickup features:
single coil, staggered pole pieces
Impedance or other specs:
Hi impedence
Perceived output level:
It is the same as the JB humbucker,
actually it might be a little hotter than the JB but it is a single
coil whereas the JB is a humbucker. Anyway the two are a perfect
match, when you switch back and forth between the 2 pickups, there is
no drop off in output or tone!
Tone:
Well balanced, I dig it
Sonic evaluation:
Kicks ass!, I couldn’t be happier
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
none that
I could think of, it distorts well, but it also gets fat & clean, or
that “twang”
Model of guitar or bass:
Samick vintage Les Paul Custom Copy
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues & Rock with this guitar
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Fairly hot, but not over the top
Tone:
bridge-pretty balanced with some midrange, neck-very balanced and unique sound
Sonic evaluation:
Samick vintage Les Paul Custom copy into a Crybaby 535Q, into a vintage ProCo Rat, into a Peavey Triumph 60 all tube 1X12 Combo pushing a vintage Peavey 4X12 straigt cab, or the same setup into a 1965 Silvertone 1482 all tube 1X12 Combo amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues, Classic Rock, Modern Rock, and a little Metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
Flying-V
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Several different ones
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Allen Holdsworth
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Articulate instrumental and lead.
Reason for pickup change:
Suspicion of a possible underutilized great neck PU.
Pickup features:
Humbucker neck
Impedence or other specs:
Alnico 5, 7.4K
Perceived output level:
PAF Alnico 5 hot, very different from the bridge version.
Tone:
Focused, bright but not as much as the bridge version, nicely mid scooped.
Sonic evaluation:
Custom Flying-V into a Jcm 800, JCM 600 and Roland JC. I susupected from looking at the specs and reading other players reviews on the Duncan Forum that the FS neck would be a Duncan Jazz made more rubust for distortion use. I was right! It’s more focused (less open sounding)then a Duncan Jazz but the upside as compared to the Jazz are numerous: 1) It handles Distortion like a champ 2) Very articulate with a some compression effect 3) Works so well with an similar articulate bridge PU (the middle position is very nice and almost jangly) 4) Has that prestine clean sound 5) Hugely versatile.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is the Full Shred Neck and it’s simply great for solo notes runs of any style. Country to Vai type stuff the FS neck delivers.
Model of guitar or bass:
Agile al-3000
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
2 stock Wilkinson humbuckers
Other pickups on guitar:
full shred
Artists using this pickup:
dunno
You musical style(s):
metal, rock, blues, classical, etc.
Reason for pickup change:
The wilkinsons were actually a bit to hot.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
medium hot
Perceived output level:
medium. It’s very adaptable to changes since one aspect doesn’t outweigh the other, so in other words, it’s balanced.
Tone:
Trebly/middy, very vowel like.
Sonic evaluation:
Right now I’m using an Agile al-3000 which is a Les Paul style axe but for much cheaper. It’s your typical set neck, all mahogany guitar. And I run that through a Vox avt15. For this style guitar I needed something trebly but I also didn’t wanna lose my tone. I was gonna go for the Duncan Custom in the bridge and Duncan distortion in the neck, but that would have been overkill hehe. As I said before the Full shred has a really vowel like tone and you can really make this sucker talk. With the tone rolled back it has thick, cutting tone that will get through any mix clearly. And with no tweaking to volume or tone knobs it has a crunchy, progressive sound. I have also tried these in bolt on mahagony body guitars and they sounded just as good, but for an alder or maple body guitar they might be slighty to harsh. All I know is that this pickup has sonic capabilities like no other pickup I have used, and I have tried alot.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
For metal, rock, or really anything distorted, this is a good match.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez SA160QM
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Ibanez Stock Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Ibanez SH-1 and SH-2
Artists using this pickup:
Jeff Becker
You musical style(s):
Heavy Metal, Progressive metal, and Progressive
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups made too much feedback + overpowered other pickups. Tone was too choppy when muted and too muddy at low strings.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hot, but not hot enough to get feedback and choppyness.
Tone:
A little trebly with some mids n low bass.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using an IbanezSa160QM with a Fender Stage 100DSP. The distortion I use is a digitech metal master stomp box. The result is….. ONE HELL OF A METAL TONE!!!. The clean impressed me as well, for with pickup split, the clean sounds like a sitar. Which can be really cool, but the distortion tone with the humbucker alone is crazy!!!! Highly recommended for Metal Players ( Not nu metal crap. )
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play progressive metal and hvy metal and this pickup is perfect. The lead tone is excellent! Plus the name is self explanitory. If you are a shredder, I highly recommend this, it gives a great shred tone.
Model of guitar or bass:
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Not =w= Rivers Cuomo =w=
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Carvin XV somthin neck through
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Live Wire Classic
Other pickups on guitar:
unknown cheapy
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Jazz-Blues & Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Hated the Live Wires
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Med-Hot
Tone:
Warmly-BALLANCED with a slight rise in LOWER-MIDS
Sonic evaluation:
This gets played through several TUBE amps at various volumes. It’s a ballanced, warmish sounding pickup. As I said, it has a SLIGHT rise in the lower mids giving it a slight rich -O- vowel sound, very pleasent and smooth, especially for leads, but not so pronounced as to overwhelm the nice ballance presented by this pickup. I also use a guitar with a Duncan 59′ which I consider to be a great well ballanced pickup, but in contrast the 59 is slightly brighter and more straight-ahead.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play Jazz-blues & HardRock-Metal. I like this pickup better for metal or jazz & great for leads but each player pulls a different sound from a guitar. It’s not bright, scooped, shrill, or muddy.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
punk/emocore
Reason for pickup change:
the stock pickup was just too boring and didnt have quite enough output
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
too hot for what i need
Tone:
not too bassy, more of a scooped mid, treble is grainy as fuck
Sonic evaluation:
I use a gibson les paul throught a Mesa Dual Rect., and sometimes a Marshall JCM-900, i gave this pickup an honest try, i kept it for maybe 4 or 5 months constantly messing with my tone but i just wasnt happy. for live purposes its not too bad, but at micing range its just to grainy, there is too much treble for what i have been looking for, and a complete bitch in the studio. and when used on a clean channel its almost impossible to get desent tone. but, thats what i get for buying a metal-head humbucker, so if you like condensed, grainy, scooped mid and chalkboard scratching trebles then this pickup fuckin rules.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I used this pickup in my les paul in two bands, an emocore thursday sounding band, and a nofx/anit-flag punk band and it relaly wasnt suitable for either
Model of guitar or bass:
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Rivers Cuomo – ^W^
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
BC Rich NJ Neck Thru Mockingbird
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock BC Rich BDSM
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro in the neck
Artists using this pickup:
Joe Perry I think but haven’t really got a clue
You musical style(s):
Rock/Metal
Reason for pickup change:
I quite liked the stock pickups for solos, but bass notes muddied up too much for me so I decided a change was needed and the Full Shred came recommended to me by another Mockingbird owner.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
See SD website
Perceived output level:
Hotter than stock and a great match for the Alnico II Pro in the neck position.
Tone:
Trebly and great for solos with good mids, but the bass really cuts through well. A really well balanced pickup and versatile.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a Marshall AVT150 or Peavey Bandit and through a Zoom GFX4 or Digitech RP2000 processor depending on where I’m playing it and it sounds great through any combination. I was already very pleased with the guitar but the pickup change has added a new dimension to it. I also modified the wiring and have added 2 toggle switches to select series or parallel for each pickup, and I changed the 2 volume pots for push/pull to phase reverse each pickup as well.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mainly Rock and Metal and it is perfectly suited to these styles of music. I can’t see country bumpkins buying a pickup called a Full Shred to knock out the latest Dolly Parton numbers! 
)
Model of guitar or bass:
`95 Jackson DR2 USA
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
George Lynch Screamin’ Demon
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan JB (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Thrash/Death Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup manufacturers seem to have a bad habit of giving low-output, mild-sounding pickups some misleading names, and the Screamin’ Demon was no exception. A decent pickup, but it couldn’t deliver good rhythm crunch to back up its more impressive lead tone. I need pickups that sound good for any situation, NOT that require their own specific EQ settings and screwing around. In an ash-body Jackson, the Screamin’ Demon sounded tinny and harsh. I had already replaced the Duncan Custom bridge pickup in a Soloist Pro with excellent results, so why not try it again?
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
The Full Shred has a reasonable amount of output, but not to the degree that it feeds back or seems overbearing. Sounds incredible with lots of gain, but without being harsh or muddy.
Tone:
A good choice for thrash/death metal. Seems to be a lot of focus on the treble end, not much bass. Equals the Screamin’ Demon or JB in lead clarity, but better response to palm muting and fast riffing.
Sonic evaluation:
My setup of choice is Jackson guitars into Peavey amps, with ART distortion. I was fed up with trying to make my DR2 sound good with the original bridge pickup, because it just wasn’t versatile. I had my doubts about using a Full Shred in an ash guitar, because the Screamin’ Demon was too harsh on the high end, and the Full Shred does have a lot of emphasis on the highs. Luckily, it ended up doing everything I hoped and more.
One thing I want to note is that I am using the standard SH-10 model with a Floyd Rose licensed trem, NOT the “TB” version that is intended for use with a trem. I couldn’t find one, and didn’t feel like waiting. I also use an SH-10 in my Soloist, and while the E strings don’t line up exactly dead-center with the corresponding poles, the response is just perfect.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
For thrash/death metal, this is THE pickup! It doesn’t have the midrange that an AC/DC fan would probably demand, and isn’t cut out for playing clean, but it does what the name implies.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Jagstang
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock fender dragster
Other pickups on guitar:
stock fender single coil
Artists using this pickup:
look on their web site…………..i suppose i don’t count
You musical style(s):
that’ll be some grunge please
Reason for pickup change:
My GOD did the stock pickup suck with a certain finesse. I wanted somthing with more balls, or is that just my sick fetish?
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
ummmmmmmm…………………dunno
Perceived output level:
Just a wee bit more power than the JB in my umprofessional opinion
Tone:
Slightly trebly, which rocks nicely with a twist of lemon
Sonic evaluation:
I use the Jag-Stang straight into a marshal VS65R ( soon to be a Laney VC50…I think? ) I love this pickup, maybe more than a JB, hhhmmmmmmmmmm or maybe not……..no after thinking about it I definatly prefere this one, which is nice.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is really good for hard driven pop power punk grunge in my opinion ( which is unprofessional as i stated earlier )
Model of guitar or bass:
gibson les paul studio
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson 498R
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
experimental hardcore
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted a hard sounding pickup with clarity.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
No more output than the stock. Much more than a JB, more than a duncan distortion.
Tone:
great highs and mids, less muddy than stock, but needs more low end
Sonic evaluation:
I use a 5150 through a mesa cab and it works perfect for what I do. I drives hard and still has definition.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good for metal ,hardcore, grind. Bad for clean(too thin)
Model of guitar or bass:
ibanez gax70
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
powersound bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
powersound neck
Artists using this pickup:
Joe Perry(Aerosmith)
You musical style(s):
metal
Reason for pickup change:
the powersound was by far the weakest, muddiest, and crappiest pickup I have every played on.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
14.6k, alnico 5 bar, double rows of allen heads
Perceived output level:
sounds medium output, very high for a passive
Tone:
lots of highs, minimum everything else
Sonic evaluation:
the sound of this is deffinately suitad for the metal player, clean its nothing special really, although can sound nice. On distortion this thing shines. The high tone of it guarantees a nice crunch, sounds great with palm muting and other tricks.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play lots of metal, and this pickup suits my style. This pickup is definately a lead pickup but it can hold its own on rythm.
Model of guitar or bass:
`90 Jackson Soloist Pro
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Custom
Other pickups on guitar:
Jackson singles
Artists using this pickup:
Glen Alvelais (ex-Testament), ???
You musical style(s):
Thrash-influenced melodic death metal….whew!
Reason for pickup change:
Duncan Custom is great for a transparent, mellow distortion and excels at leads,
but can’t deliver any crunch. Turned to mud with palm-muting and double-picking.
Also, was not properly spaced for Floyd Rose trem. (Although I listed this Full
Shred as the SH-10 model, it may be the trembucker model and was labelled wrong
at the store — it lines up just fine.)
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
www.seymourduncan.com
Perceived output level:
Fairly high output, somewhere between the JB and Screamin’ Demon.
Tone:
Godlike metal tone! Fairly bright and geared toward thrash, with emphasis on the high end. Still has a great crunch, even without much bass.
Sonic evaluation:
Used in a Jackson Soloist through ART distortion and various effects to a pair of Peavey stacks, this is my new favorite pickup! It delivers exactly the thrashy rhythm crunch I’ve been looking for, and combines it with a lead clarity on the level of the Duncan JB model. A great all-in-one pickup for my needs.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I would describe my sound as being along the lines of At the Gates or Darkane, a scooped-mid rhythm distortion with melodic leads on top. I always use the bridge pickup, except for clean playing, and this is the first to let me get my ideal rhythm AND lead sounds on one guitar. However, while it is very versatile as a metal pickup, I doubt it would be well-suited to other types of music.
Model of guitar or bass:
Aria (explorer rippoff)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Unknown pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Unknown neck pickup from the stone ages
Artists using this pickup:
who knows? who cares?
You musical style(s):
Post-punk, Alternternative, Psychedellic, brit-pop, geek rock, old school punk
Reason for pickup change:
I needed this guitar to be my screamin solo guitar so the the chics would think I was a bad ass. I figured it would have a good high-end.
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
WONDERFULLY CHEESED OUT SUPER GEEKISHLY HAIR IN YOUR FACE HOT!
Tone:
Did someone say Randy Rhoads?
Sonic evaluation:
cheap junky old marshall gr30 with no cheesey effects at all.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like to play pixies and weezer punk type stuff and though its terrible for rythem parts it screams on the solos and thats why I bought it. I can get some okay riffage out of it sometimes cept I don’t play manny riffy songs. has really bad clean tone but I wouldn’t use it for clean even if it had good tone (I prefer my epi-semihollow for that) so all around you can get some big angry fast action solos for all styles that need it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock single coil
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
I don’t know of any.
You musical style(s):
Punk, Metal
Reason for pickup change:
I absolutely hate the sound of Fender singles coils, so i removed them and stuck in the Full Shred.
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
I have no clue.
Perceived output level:
A lot hotter than single coils. Just a tad hotter than the Dimarzio Tone Zone I have in another guitar.
Tone:
Nice, tight, crunchy metal/punk tone. It doesn’t have a lot of midrange, but that’s why I bought it!
Sonic evaluation:
I removed all of the pickups and the tone knobs in my Strat, so know I’m down to the Full Shred and a volume knob. I primarily use a Roc-Pro 1000 head with a Celestion-loaded 4×12 cab. Since the Roc-Pro’s distortion is crunchy to start with, the pickup sounds very nice with this setup. It doesn’t get muddy at all, on clean or distortion. Being in the bridge, the clean is very trebly, but that’s what I like.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
If you play blues or jazz, I don’t recommend this pickup, but if you play metal, punk or any kind of distorted rock, this is a very good choice! This pickup is definitely a bridge pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RX20
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Crappy stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Crappy stock neck humbucker
Artists using this pickup:
???
You musical style(s):
Metal,thrash,classic-rock,blues-rock
Reason for pickup change:
Ibanez humbucker had no definition, almost one-dimensional.
Distorsion was loose and muddy, clean had no low-end.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Medium-Hot Output, adjustable pole peices
Perceived output level:
I think the hottest Duncan pickup. More than medium but not MegaHot.
Tone:
Extremely balanced, low-end lacks just a pinch, high-end is great.
Sonic evaluation:
With a Marshall VS30R it can get nasty on you in a second. Although
this amp does not deliver heavy metal characteristics, I can say metal
players will this one, I do. It has good clean sound, it doesn’t have
too much of the twang in it, high-register notes don’t give you migranes.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Although it’s not an EMG, it gives me good Metallica sound. Good for metal if you have the right amp.
Model of guitar or bass:
My own design
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates Bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates
Artists using this pickup:
Heart’s Ann Wilson
You musical style(s):
Blues, Classic Rock, Alternative
Reason for pickup change:
Other pickup was not hot enough
Pickup features:
passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
15.1k
Perceived output level:
Hot, raunchy, pissed-off loud rock sound
Tone:
a little on the bright side, but back off the tone and it kills for rock riffing
Sonic evaluation:
using a sovtek midget, a marshall plexi, it rocks. very cool riff sound.
using a vox AC30, it is a little bright and a little too powerful.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
For blues it is a little too hot, but it still sound very good
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson King V Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Jacksons
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Jacksons
Artists using this pickup:
none that I know of
You musical style(s):
Metal, thrash
Reason for pickup change:
Don’t care for Jackson’s stock pickups, very weak.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
how the hell should I know?!
Perceived output level:
seriously hot for metal players. Can get a good balance of highs, lows and a few mids.
Tone:
balanced
Sonic evaluation:
THIS PICKUP ROCKS!!! However, it is suitable only for metal and/or thrash
A must have for any metalhead guitar player. If you have a
floyd rose bridge, ask for the TB-10, which is the floyd-spaced
version. It doesn’t cost any extra.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
there is a seperate neck version.
Model of guitar or bass:
Kramer nightswan
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Was a JB, but removed
Artists using this pickup:
Vivian Campell
You musical style(s):
Metal, Grunge, Hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Humbuking
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
UltraHot
Tone:
Less low end than most humbuckers. It truely does what its name implies; Shreads like a meat grinder. A lot of bass must be added to the amp/effects to get a deep sound. When that is accomplished, I would have no other.
Sonic evaluation:
If you’re not carefull this thing can peirce your ear drum. But play
with your amp/effects and it shines as an excelent HM – Thrash
pickup
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Not too great for anything acoustic. Great for anything in the heavy distortion category. Lots of muting with the palm makes it sound great. I had it in the middle position once and it performed OK, but not great.
Model of guitar or bass:
Scheerhorn L-Body Curly Maple Resonator Guitar
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
McIntyre
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Jerry Douglas
You musical style(s):
Bluegrass and associated acoustic roots music
Reason for pickup change:
McIntyre pickup had good tone, but picked up noise from my right hand fingerpicks and did not get enough strength of signal for my liking
Pickup features:
Passive pickup
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Resonator guitars are extremely difficult to amplify. Big difference between plugged in sound and using a microphone; this is the most pleasing sounding pickup I have used since I started playing squareneck resophonic guitar (a.k.a. Dobro)
Tone:
This pickup works great, but absolutely requires e.q. to sound good. Way too much high-end treble without e.q.
Sonic evaluation:
I have this pickup in 2 different guitars-Scheerhorn L=Body curly maple and Mahogany/Spruce R-Body. I run the pickup into a Baggs Para-Acoutic D.I. and run the effects loop from the Baggs into a Raven Labs True Blue E.Q. From there I run into an A.E.R. Acousticube (which is the best plugged in sound I have ever heard out of any equipment!) or into a Boss DD-3 Digital Delay and into my P.A. system.
I used to run out of the Baggs directly into whatever P.A. system where I was playing but the pickup always had too much treble to me..the Raven Labs really makes a huge difference in tone control
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Wide variety of acoustic roots music-bluegrasss, blues, folk, etc
Model of guitar or bass:
1976 Les Paul Deluxe
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Gibson Bridge pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Gibson Neck pickup
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Metal, Blues
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted higher output with less microphonic feed back.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
16K Plus Dual Ceramic Magnets
Perceived output level:
Hot! 16K plus on my meter.
Tone:
Crunchy and bright with great sustain. With distortion and a bit of volume you can slide you finger up and down the low E string and get those Ted Nugent feedback sounds,(Think of the solo on “Stormtroopin” from Double Live Gonzo). Great for duplicating Pete Townsend’s Les Paul Deluxe era sounds. If Pete were still using Deluxes I would bet he would love this pickup in the bridge.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a 76 Les Paul Deluxe into various Ampeg tube amps,(V4s, a VL1002, Jet and Reverborocket Reissues). Except for the VL1002 I use Pro Co Rat pedals, an Electroharmonix Big Muff Reissue, or a MXR Doubleshot Distortion. The best sound combination to my ears is the Deluxe into an early Rat-2(with the LM308 chip) into an earlier non master volume V4 with (2) 4×12 matching cabinets. All you idiots who are thinking of routing a stock Les Paul Deluxe should get the Dimarzio DP209 P90 Super Distortion(My review on that to come) if you want your Deluxe to come close to a standard. This pickup has given me a the want to “PICKUP MY GUITAR AND PLAY” and has made me into a Les Paul Deluxe believer! For another review on what I believe is to be the same pickup go to: http://www.harmony-central.com/Guitar/Data2/Seymour_Duncan/Custom-Mini-Humbucker-01.html
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a variety of music from blues to hard rock to metal and I feel this pickup does overdriven blues and hard rock leads well very. What this pickup does best is the crunchy well defined chords you can get from an overdriven or clean sounding tube amp with a good distortion pedal. Every note cuts thru the mix. So all of you ski cap wearing, skateboard riding, 7 string drop D tuning Ibanez playing, body piercing pukes out there with your modeling amps should try out a Les Paul Deluxe with this pickup along with a good tube amp and a good distortion pedal! Whoaahhhh!
Model of guitar or bass:
Cort 1400
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock Mighty Mite
Other pickups on guitar:
stock Mighty Mite
Artists using this pickup:
ME. Many of the rock stars here on HC turn their nose up at this pickup
You musical style(s):
rock-n-roll/punk/blues
Reason for pickup change:
Stock Mighty Mite is quite fine in the neck position, but the one in the bridge was thin and weak.
Pickup features:
passive chrome covered humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
around 8.3 or so (?)
Perceived output level:
Hotter than the M M despite reading similar resistance( 8. vs. roughly 8.3) or so, but this is not meant to be a really “hot” pickup.
Tone:
Mo’ bass and mids than the stocky MM, with a slightly attenuated high end, a little bit o’ “ooomph”
Sonic evaluation:
The Cort is a small bodied hollow guitar (no center block) and a stop tailpiece. The idea was to come close to Malcolm Young’s rhythm guitar sound (on a fish fry budget). Must say, I more or less nailed it. Using a variety of amps – both transistor(gasp)- Crate, Markley, Roland, tube- Traynor, Peavey, Silvertone and “modelers”- Zoom GM 200, Yamaha DG Stomp (funny how all this crap collects…) I find myself using the Crate Powerblock most often. I should note that this pickup splits nicely yielding a useable tone (I usually don’t even bother hooking the taps up, it’s usually not worth the trouble.) The guitar, despite the name on the headstock, is well designed and reasonably well made, that makes all the difference. On another similarly priced(cheap)guitar(DeArmond), I was not so successful with this pickup – the difference is the distance between the bridge and the pickup, the DeArmond is much closer resulting in a strident tone.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
OLD SCHOOL ROCK-N-ROLLThis isn’t a “metal” pickup, but it’ll do most things just fine.
Model of guitar or bass:
epiphone g-400 les paul custom (sg body)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
epiphone stock usa classic
Other pickups on guitar:
2 usa classics (gold cover)
Artists using this pickup:
me
You musical style(s):
pop/punk/rock/funk
Reason for pickup change:
need something hotter, or so i thought.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker, gold plated.
Impedence or other specs:
check with gibson
Perceived output level:
not so hot clean, distortion really sings. pronounced difference.
Tone:
distortion quality is nice, but that’s it. clean is thin like a burstbucker, no mid.
Sonic evaluation:
epiphone sg -> orange twin channel head -> mesa 2×12 custom with eminence swamp thang/cannabis rex.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
good for any music style where no clean is required.
Model of guitar or bass:
Les Paul
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
57 Classic
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Angus!
You musical style(s):
Rock and Roll
Reason for pickup change:
Testing a theory based on Spec sheets.
Pickup features:
Alnico II, four conductor
Impedence or other specs:
EXACTLY the same as 57 Classics, save minor details (namely enamel coated wire) and 4 conducter wiring.
Perceived output level:
Same as 57, almost identical if not EXACT.
Tone:
Vintage. great stuff, just need a decent amp (and a brain) peoples.
Sonic evaluation:
HEY PEOPLE, THE 490s ARE EXACT SPEC OF THE 57s EXCEPT FOR THE ENAMEL COATED WIRE, MAPLE SPACERS, NICKEL SLUGS.
D.C. Resistance, magnet type, etc is the exact same!!! Some of you guys are knocking these and suggesting 57s instead. Morons! Both pickups are great, you need to try out 57s before recommending them, there is virtually no sonic difference! Alnico 2, same windings and same DC. Maybe you need more experience in other guitars, or perhaps a better amp. I am more than happy with my Gibsons… although I have NOT tried the Ceramic pickups (500t), I suspect they may not be to my liking – we’ll see.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Most anything
Model of guitar or bass:
Les Paul Standard 1998
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
I am replacing this pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
490R
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Alt. rock, blues, RnR – everything
Reason for pickup change:
I absolutely believe these standard Gibson pickups are the woprst sounding humbucker I’ve laid my ears on for a long time.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Quite loud at normal height. I’d say med/hot.
Tone:
Muddy, no sonic chime, flat, boomy
Sonic evaluation:
I read everyone elses reviews and had to perform a balancing evaluation. I have replaced my Les Paul pickups with some Golden Age Humbuckers. The standard p/ups were unresponsive, boomy, non-atriculate and really brought my opinion of what felt like a great guitar down. I want to play my expensive piece of wood, not wish it was a PRS! Using Trace Elliot 12R (15watt class A), VC30 by Laney, Sovtek MIG 50 with many pedals. Play mostly my Strat Plus, 1957 Les Paul Special, this Les Paul and a
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock etc…as above
Model of guitar or bass:
Les Paul
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
57 Classic plus
Other pickups on guitar:
57 Classic
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Needed a bigger fuller sound that did not break at the pickup level.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Twin
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This a bridge pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson SG Specials and Epiphone Dot
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Gibson Designed Epiphone Alnico II in Dot
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson 490R
Artists using this pickup:
Irrelevant
You musical style(s):
Classic rock, power pop, punk, oldies. Very limited heavy metal. No country.
Reason for pickup change:
These came stock in the SG Special. In the Dot, I wanted something that sounded better. The Gibson designed Alnico IIs are better than the old Epiphone stock pickups, but still lacking.
Pickup features:
passive 4 conductor humbucker with Alnico II magnets (I don’t like active pickups.)
Impedence or other specs:
Absolutely no idea.
Perceived output level:
These are Alnico II magnets – which means low to moderate. That’s perfect for what I am looking for.
Tone:
The 490T has a wrap for having an upper midrange honk. In solid body guitars, it definitely has that. However, if you play with the pole adjustments and the pickup height, you can get a very balanced sounded out of these. a bit
Sonic evaluation:
Guitars: Gibson SG Specials and Epiphone Dot Semi-hollow body. Amps: Fender Hot Rod Deluxes; Crate VC 50Hs; or Sunn T50 combo. The Gibson 490T sounds fine in the solid body SG Special. Bring them up high close to the strings or they lack some tonal fullness. With proper pickup height adjustment they really shine. But where these really excel is in the hollow body. In single coil mode, they sound fantastic: clear, dynamic and with amazing presence. In humbucker mode, they are not quite as warm or as clean as the 57 classics, but they are very, very close. A few EQ adjustments and you are just about there. They allow you some very user friendly versatility.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
The 490T is designed to be a bridge pickup, and that is where I have all of mine. For the styles of music I play, it is just about the perfect pickup – particularly in the Epiphone Dot, where I can get different tones buy going from single coil to humbucker mode as much as I want.
Model of guitar or bass:
gibson faded sg
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
dimarzio tone zone
Other pickups on guitar:
gibson 490r
Artists using this pickup:
me
You musical style(s):
hard rock, blues, metal
Reason for pickup change:
i put the dimarzio in before even playing the stock through my rig. just thought i would give it a try.
Pickup features:
humbucking passive pickup
Impedence or other specs:
not sure
Perceived output level:
i would say medium
Tone:
i like it, now i have read a lot of complaints but i like it.
Sonic evaluation:
i use my gibson sg faded-dunlop crybaby-dod yjm 308-marshall avt50 head and marshall 4×10 cabinet w/celestions. i like it, it is very solid sounding and mutes way better than my tone zone did. the lead tone is good if you like ac/dc, guns and roses, etc.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play hard rock, metal and blues. not really a metal pickup but i like it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson SG gothic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
came stock
Other pickups on guitar:
EMG-89R, EMG-81
Artists using this pickup:
don’t know any off-hand. a lot i’d assume
You musical style(s):
slow/heavy rock/metal
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive 6-string open-coil humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
a lot less than what i’m used to (over-volted EMG’s that hug the strings)
Tone:
Dark, full, bassy, “grungy”, very clean and clear and with *a lot* of lows, somewhat harsh on high notes
Sonic evaluation:
for people that are used to EMG’s, this is not a high-output pickup. it has neither the excellent lead tone nor the sustain of an active hum. what it does have is a *much* richer and lower tone, and despite lower output, it sounds considerably more powerful than most PU’s. the tone is dark and bassy. lows/low mids (around 150 Hz) are particularly strong, but not mushy or too loud. the pickup itself is very clean and clear. i played it through the highest-gain pedal i had laying around (DOD death metal), and even with that massive distortion the sound remained very clear. no noise, no mud, and best of all, no bassy hum with palm-muting (even with the death metal). however, it does not have a good lead tone, and i wouldn’t solo with it unless you cranked the tone pot all the way down and used another PU as well. it’s too harsh on high notes. but anything below the G string is absolutely wonderful.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
it’s perfect for my musical styles, but not for everything i play. wonderful for rhythm and some leads, but i don’t solo with it. i wouldn’t put it anywhere besides the bridge.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
490R
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rockabilly, Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Humbucking (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Middy compared to the 490R in the neck
Sonic evaluation:
Les Paul straight into Fender Hot Rod Deluxe for live work, or straight into Line 6 POD for recording
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup suits my playing very well
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Classic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 500T
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson 490R
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Modern Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The original pickups on the Les Paul Classic were great for high gain sounds, but they were difficult to control when a song called for a cleaner sound. I chose the 490s because they seemed to have the characteristics that I was looking for. I debated long and hard before replacing the 496R and the 500T on this guitar. I am saving the originals just in case I have a change of heart!
Pickup features:
Modern Alnico humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Compared to my other electric guitar (I own 6) pickups and the original 496/500s, these are smack dab in the middle of the spectrum. They are very close in output level to the stock single coils on my 99 Rickenbacker 360/6.
Tone:
With Marshall JCM 2000 amp settings at 12:00 and the guitar pots open wide, these pickups shine in the middle range and lower middle range. You can get a variety of tones by tweaking the amp and guitar settings, including an almost acoustic-sounding clean
Sonic evaluation:
I use this 2000 Les Paul Classic typically with three tube amps: Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 201 with Celestion Modern Lead 70 speaker, Fender Hot Rod Deluxe with Celestion V30 speaker, and a 1971 Fender Vibro Champ driving a 1 X 12 cabinet loaded with a 20 watt Eminence Alnico speaker (ultra vintage-sounding setup!).
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play what could best be described as “modern rock:–original compositions that employ a variety of of guitar sounds, from vintage low-powered tube sounds to ultra high gain sounds. These pickups fit the bill very nicely, providing a wide range of possib
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson SG
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
490R
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues rock, southern rock
Reason for pickup change:
I haven’t changed the pickups yet, but I definitely will.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
8.2k
Perceived output level:
average. The 490’s aren’t high output. I would say they’re low to middle output. Also, I’ve always thought bridge pickups should be wound a little hotter than neck pickups, because the vibrations are weaker there. Even with a LARGE height difference, the neck pickup is still louder than the bridge pickup.
Tone:
Both the 490R and 490T seem to have a bit of a mid cut.
Sonic evaluation:
It definitely doesn’t give me that thick tone I want. (Think Gary Rossington) I’ve tried playing this guitar through various Fender amps (BF Bassman, SF Champ, SF Deluxe). At best, the tone was mediocre.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Probably not good for classic/southern rock tones.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epi Special II, and Hondo Lazer(headless wierd one)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Epi has 490R in neck pos’n, Lazer has no others
Artists using this pickup:
Lots.
You musical style(s):
Slide, fingerstyle blues
Reason for pickup change:
Stock ones were lifeless
Pickup features:
Humbucking 4-conductor
Impedence or other specs:
13k?
Perceived output level:
Average Humbucker hot. Not As much as a JB but waaay more than a single coil.
Tone:
Middy-Boxy. Good treble clank
Sonic evaluation:
First reaction in the lazer was YUCK! Then I played with the midrange, and got a nice trebly sheen, when I EQ’d out the boxy midrange honk. The 88 Twin reacts really really well to this pickup for distortion. On the Lazer, as the note dies out, it appears to go up an octave. Righteous!!
This pickup has a very strong personality, and you must be able to EQ the amp to get what you want. There’s a lot of tone there, though.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good traditional blues tone. Esactly nails the boxiness of the lead sound on Howling Wolf’s guitarist on “The Real Folk Blues” album when down in the extreme bridge position.
I am using this with a fiddle, and I love it. Violins have a very complex timbre and poor equipment just sounds like ass. I play a quintus 4-string with an Ithaca Strings two-part bridge pickup system. Sometimes I run through a Fishman Pro-acoustic preamp, but lately it hasn’t been doing much for me and it’s extra weight at a gig. Most often I’m using an acoustic sound with minimal effects.
I have had no luck what so ever with digital delays, even the best units leave a metalic residue in the sound. I run this through the effects loop of my AER Compact60, an amp which exposes all the weaknesses of any electronics, and this unit sounds like gold (purple gold). If you give it good sound it will echo it!
In edition the hi-cut knob can give a really nice filtering effect, harkening back to the tape delays of yesteryear. Turn it to the left and it leaves the sound un-altered.
I have been play everything from old-time southern to celtic to bluegrass to jazz to funk (on the fiddle) for 13 years now. Most of the music I play doesn’t allow for heavy effects and so I use this unit on its own most of the time (with my amp – see above). If you’re playing acoustic music, and want to hear the sound of your expensive instrument ringing through, then I would say this is the delay for you.
Then when the time is right and I can get out my fuzz and wah and let it rip – this unit still comes through! I love it.
I’d buy another to replace it if (heaven forbid) it were to disappear. My setup wouldn’t be right without this purple pedal!
at the risk of rating inflation I give this pedal a 10:
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Custom ‘62 Tele
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Tom Anderson single coils
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Artists use pickups????
You musical style(s):
Rockabilly, country, blues, rock,
Reason for pickup change:
looking for more of a Tele Twang, and I GOT IT!!!!
Pickup features:
single coil, passive pups
Impedence or other specs:
6.3k, 6.8k
Perceived output level:
The Tom Anderson were fairly high output for single coil, these are about the same
Tone:
Sound is organic, very touch sensitive, clean and full, not brittle at all, and not much noise at all.
Sonic evaluation:
Recording with either a POD XT or a Deluxe Reverb or a Pro Junior. These pick ups are fantastic, they are the best Tele pups I have ever used, and i have tried ALOT of pups!!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
A great match for the styles of music i play (mentioned above)
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Vintage ‘52 Telecaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Lindy Fralin Tele Set
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
None that I know of
You musical style(s):
Blues, Country and original Rock ‘n’ Roll, (Elvis, Buddy Holly).
Reason for pickup change:
See “Other Comments”
Pickup features:
Passive single coils, vintage reproduction
Impedence or other specs:
No idea
Perceived output level:
Rather low, just like old Tele pickups
Tone:
Neck pickup is warm and smooth, bridge is trebly and twangy
Sonic evaluation:
Real Tele character, about as close as you can get to real vintage, (I hate that word), Teles today.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These aren’t for metal or slightly heavier rock but they’re perfect for blues, country and real 50’s rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Peavy Reactor (US made Tele copy)
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
SD Vintage stacks
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, rock
Reason for pickup change:
I put the stacks in a few years ago to get rid of the hum, but it really didn’t get the good Tele sounds I was looking for.
After putting Fralins and VZ’s into two of my strats and being very pleased with the sound and response I figured it was time to see if I could get some better sounds out of this tele.
Pickup features:
passive single coil
Impedence or other specs:
6.91k (bridge)
Perceived output level:
Same as vintage
Tone:
Bridge: great highs and mids- harmonics to die for / Neck: a bit bassy
Sonic evaluation:
I’ve been using a modified Pignose G40V (tweed bassman/early Marshall design with added gain stage) and my own ProManiac design which adds a G40V-ish preamp to a BF Pro amp. When adding the Antiquities to my Peavy Reactor I used a Fender #099-2250-000 4-way Tele selector switch ; the 4th position is both pickups in series for a fuller, thicker sound. Since the neck pu is RWRP in relation to the bridge pu, both the parallel and series linkages are hum-cancelling. I used a Fender TBX control for the tone pot and a 500k push-pull pot for volume (the switch reverses the neck pickup leads for out-of-phase sounds). Between the hot terminals of the volume pot I added a 220k resistor and 180pF mica cap to smooth out the response and to retain the highs at lower pot settings (the stock 0.001uF “bright” cap Fender uses is WAY too bright). When rewiring my guitar I went ahead and shielded the cavities with copper foil tape and used the grounding procedures developed by John Atcheley. I also repotted the bridge pickup by suspending it in paraffin melted over a double boiler for an hour (since other posts here mentioned a problem with microphonics).
Sonic evaluation: As other reviews here have mentioned, I have had a hard time putting my guitar down because it sounds so great! I’d tried the SD Broadcaster and Vintage Tele bridge pickups in another Tele years ago and was never very impressed with the sound (although the amps I was using may have had a lot to do with that). They were better than the stock Fender pickup, but did not nail the early Roy Buchanan sound I was looking for. The Antiquity bridge pickup is incredible; with the amp gain turned up I get a very clear sound that will sustain as long as I want it to. The harmonics are thick enough to slice. With the gain turned down, you get a really nice twang which should please the C&W pickers. The neck pickup isn’t quite as remarkable as the bridge, but it works well in the two blend positions (with the 4-way switch). For a totally KILLER guitar, I may eventually rout out the neck pickup cavity and trim the pickguard to mount a Lindy Fralin Vintage Blues strat pickup in the neck position (the Fralins have the best sound of any single coil neck pickup I’ve tried, but for the bridge position you can’t beat the Antiquity Tele- at least for my own playing style). Maybe I’m missing something but I don’t understand why the new 3 pickup Teles use a strat pickup for the MIDDLE position- why not use strat pickups for both the neck and middle position? You’d get some great Strat sounds along with some great Tele sounds. Of course, maybe the Tele neck pickup is popular because of the shielding from the metal cover…
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These pickups are great for the blues and rock I play, and for the c&w that I don’t! Jazz players would like them, too. Metal players would think that the bridge pickup is too bright and that the neck pickup is too wimpy.
Model of guitar or bass:
taylor 615
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
n/a
Other pickups on guitar:
martin thinline
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
fingerstyle, country-top 40 rock
Reason for pickup change:
need a preamp to boost signal
Pickup features:
active preamp
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
just what i need. has a gain control to adjust output
Tone:
reproduces the sound of my thinline but makes it better
Sonic evaluation:
i bought this to use at church thru an acoustic junior & the thinline alone was not loud enough. the gigpro just boost the signal with bass & treble eq. also has a phase switch to help with feedback & a gain knob to find sweetspot before distortion. i dont like to tweak knobs and the simplicity of the gigpro was very nice
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i use the gigpro mostly at church to help achieve volume. the gigpro is very useful for this purpose.
Model of guitar or bass:
custom made guitar
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
unknown
You musical style(s):
they vary and fluctuate greatly between No Age, prog rock, folk traditionals,blues & dysfunctional mall jazz music
Reason for pickup change:
There were none, so it’s much better with.
Pickup features:
Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
This unit is very versatile. The trim control is a moveable 12 db/octave filter adjustable from 127 hz to 200 hz. You can’t beat the possibilities of getting the sound and warmth just the way it should be.
Tone:
find the “sweet spot” and it will do whatever you want!
Sonic evaluation:
N/A — mostly used direct to mixer
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Epi Acoustic
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
Me
You musical style(s):
Acoustic worship
Reason for pickup change:
Needed more output from Lace passive
Pickup features:
Active Beltclip Preamp
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Going from preamp 20′ to direct box 200′ to board. VERY hot
Tone:
Ability to fine tune
Sonic evaluation:
See above
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Martin custom 15
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Fishman Rare Earth Blend
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Bluegrass, acoustic country
Reason for pickup change:
Fishman needed output boost
Pickup features:
Works with most acoustic pickups
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
CLEAN and clear
Tone:
Made everything the Fishman did well MUCH better
Sonic evaluation:
Martin rosewood D size guitar w/Fishman Rare Earth Blend thru Gigpro into PA board.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Fiddle tunes, country and some Western swing
Model of guitar or bass:
Takamine F-385 12 String
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
added to give boost to Dean Markley ProMag Plus
Other pickups on guitar:
Dean Markley ProMag
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know
You musical style(s):
Progressive Christian, acoustic rock
Reason for pickup change:
Soundhole pickup needed signal boost and EQ
Pickup features:
Active belt clip preamp with bass, treble, volume, trim, gain, and phase.
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
10 Very hot, really boosted the passive piezo pickup’s sound
Tone:
8 nicely brought out the tones from my 12 string, made the sound very ’sparkly’
Sonic evaluation:
9 Running from the Dean Markley pickup to this preamp, through a chorus and then straight through the board of the PA system. Before using this little preamp the sound was not present at all.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
A great addition to my guitar setup. Good for all styles
Model of guitar or bass:
1996 Fender Strat Standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Hot Rail
Other pickups on guitar:
Strat Standard Single Coils
Artists using this pickup:
BILL FROM MASTODON WHO CARES WHO ELSE!!
You musical style(s):
Metal/Doom/Stoner/Sludge/Chaos
Reason for pickup change:
Hot Rail was nice but a bit muddy and still had too much a Stratty sound to it.. Was going for the sound of Justin Broadrick of Godflesh and his Strat..
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Check seymourduncan.com for the techie stuff…
Perceived output level:
Probably just as loud as the Hot Rail, maybe a bit less gain..
Tone:
Nice low end chunk and tons of top end bite and crunch.. To top it off, no mud this shits sparkly clean!!
Sonic evaluation:
Running my mexican Strat Standard through a Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive, Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal (this is what I use for the Strat), Line 6 Delay, into an 82 Marshall JCM800 2204 (50 watter) w/JCM800 cab (not the stock Celestions, some other 8ohm Celestion I couldnt tell what model). Had a Hot Rail on there for the last 4 years or so and it blew me away when I first began using it.. Probably cause I was used to the single coil sound instead.. The last few months Ive been really working on tone and with my JCM800 and the HotRail was just a bit too muddy and still too ’stratty’ for me lately. So I decided to get a real humbucker like the hero whos sound I want so badly to have.. Wanted a Custom because of Duncans tone chart, but nobody had them in stock.. The Distortion, does just what I need it to do.. Its plenty loud, lots of raw crunch, and the high end and bass are killer!! I swapped my 12AX7R preamp tubes for some GT ECC83s like a week before I put the pickup in, and it gave the Hot Rail a nice new EQ curve seeming to lose the midrange fuzziness the 12AX7s gave it and kicked in this gnarly low end and bright high end but still too muddy.. The Distortion just took it to the next level and made me wanna cry. Even with my Heavy Metal pedal raging its fuzzed out doom sonics, I can hear EVERYTHING Im playing.. Harmonics are screaming out of this guitar now. Feedback is still beautiful when Im sitting in front of the cab.. With this pickup and the ECC83s its making me FINALLY start to pay attention to my picking and whatnot because yes, you really can hear it, and this combo is not forgiving if you suck and are a sloppy player.. Pile on the fuzz and muddy distortion if you want to cover that up..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Wes Caley below is actually a good friend of mine, I bought the Distortion specifically because he recommended it here, and Im gonna have to agree with everything he said.. He plays death metal, Im into the stoner rock/doom metal/sludge/Godflesh sound.. Yeah it might not have that crappy Mesa Boogie scoop sound but man, its time to quit playing your Marshall 10w solid state practice amps and get a real tube amp and let it do the work.
Model of guitar or bass:
Peavey Rotor exp
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
SH-6b
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Prog. rock/Metal, thrash, blues
Reason for pickup change:
Stocks..enough said-
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Not quite as hot as an EMG, but thats a good thing
Tone:
Thick and bassy, (but not too bassy)
Sonic evaluation:
I am playing a peavey rotor exp, through a Boss MT-2 and a 160 watt peavey special.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play alot of metal, and this humbucker is my dream..it has the perfect tone. Harmonics are perfect..personally i think it’s a toned down EMG 81 which is amazing. I think the good thing about this pickup is that the clean sound is very diverse. It may not be perfect for jazz, or blues…but it’s made to suit any style. That why i love it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson LP blackbeauty RI ‘92 (2 pickups)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson ‘57 classic
Other pickups on guitar:
SD ‘59 neck
Artists using this pickup:
not sure
You musical style(s):
Pop/rock,grunge,stoner, classic rock
Reason for pickup change:
The Gibson ‘57 just didn’t have the “growl” and was too squealy when distorted
Pickup features:
humbucker passive
Impedence or other specs:
you know
Perceived output level:
Above average output level… Not nearly as high as the diMarzio x2n in my Ibanez S 540 for instance.
Tone:
Good balance between the high’s,mid’s and bass… But very harsh with clean sounds but that’s what comes with the ceramic territory
Sonic evaluation:
Gibson LP custom through either my Diezel vh4 m/ or DSL100 m/
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play in a pop/rock band and a stoner/grunge band. There’s either a bridge and neck model. I only know the bridge version.
Model of guitar or bass:
Dean ‘79 series Z
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio X2N
Other pickups on guitar:
stock Dean neck
Artists using this pickup:
anyone with good tone!!!
You musical style(s):
death/thrash/hardcore metal,progressive rock,some jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Dimarzio X2N was too gnarly!!!
Pickup features:
humbucking,passive
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know haha!
Perceived output level:
very well balanced output; not to hot,but not cheesy either…pretty loud though!
Tone:
lots of low-end definitely,lots of mid “crunch” and decent treble without being earsplitting
Sonic evaluation:
I am using the aforementioned Dean into: Boss SD-1 Overdrive+Boss CE-3 Chorus+out A to MXR Phase 90,out B to Boss TU-2 Tuner=to either a Line 6 Pod in Marshall JCM800 setting,or a Marshall JCM 900 2100 head into Marshall 4X12 w/Celestion Vintage 30’s.This pickup is it! I can’t believe the pinch harmonics you can get from this thing; as soon as I put it in I started REALLY playing man! I stayed away from Duncans becuase I thought they did’nt have enough power/balls,but I had been wrong this whole time….my friend has a Jackson Soloist with a JB in it and that thing sounded great too! I can nail that great Scott Ian Anthrax tone with this thing…which is all I ever wanted in the first place! The X2N was just way to powerful,and was hard to get “natural” harmonics; the kind that sound musical and seem to fly out of the amp….this is the 1 for me!!!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
for death metal,this may at first seem to “vintage”….no way! Let your amp do the work and you will be amazed at the results.I did have to turn up my gain,but it was worth the tone I got back.Probably unsuitable for neck position,or jazz music…perfect for rock/metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
Peavey Destiny Custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Ron Jarzombek, George Lynch, Randy Rhoads (only the best!)
You musical style(s):
Progressive Metal, etc.
Reason for pickup change:
Didn’t want to take a chance with stock bridge pickup, dissapointed every time..
Pickup features:
Humbucking, Ceramic HOT pickup!
Impedence or other specs:
14 k
Perceived output level:
Smokin!
Tone:
Balanced and Mid middy.
Sonic evaluation:
Mark III Red Stripe and 5150 cAB.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Prog Metal- its suitable for all my music!
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Two stock singles
Artists using this pickup:
Me
You musical style(s):
Classic Rock, Jazz, Blues, etc…
Reason for pickup change:
I thought the Dimarzio was harsh and brittle sounding. This Strat has a VERY light body. It could have just been a bad match. I’m sure Dimarzio makes fine PU’s.
Pickup features:
Humbucking, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
probably at least 16K
Perceived output level:
This is a pretty hot PU. It has the same coils as a JB but w/ ceramic magnet
Tone:
Big bottom, strong mid bass, just right on the top.
Sonic evaluation:
I actually have SH-6’s on two guitars, a PRS and this Strat. They are for bridge position only. I use them with a 65 BF super reverb, a 65 Vibroverb, a 71 marshall superlead, and several other great vintage and custom made amps. As far as I am concerned the Duncan Distortion is THE UNDISPUTABLE KING for classic rock and blues rock. I have been playing for over 30 yrs and have never compromised on my tone. I own alot of guitars and amps that most players only dream of, and I know what sounds right. The DD is NOT super bright. If it sounds that way in your particular rig turn the treble down. It is NOT only good for distorted sounds. It happens to be on the hot and fat side. Roll back your gain a bit and adjust your EQ. I use mine for clean tones all the time. It sounds like a JB with more bottom and is everything a Gibson humbucker should have been (I’ve gone thru alot of them). In single coil mode it does a reasonable Strat tone, and is better than a stock Strat bridge PU IMO. Your technique will have a major effect on how these work for you. They might not be right for a soft picker, you have to play these hard.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play many styles, lately more Blues and Classic Rock
Model of guitar or bass:
Les Paul Classic
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
wanted more dirt
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Lots of output compared to stock
Tone:
Middy, somewhat trebly
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a Marshall 2203 and 1960 4×12 cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play hard rock, and use this pickup in the bridge.
Model of guitar or bass:
gibson les paul
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
498t
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
heavy rock
Reason for pickup change:
try something different
Pickup features:
humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
slightly higher than the 498t
Tone:
trebly
Sonic evaluation:
thru a marshall jcm800 100wt and box. slight more gain and bite than the 498t but way too much pinch harmonics. for an all round style of rock i would not recomend these. tone was good but the harmonics were just way too much.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
heavy rock
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter C1+
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Designed HB-103B
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan ‘59 Neck Classic Cover (Nickel)
Artists using this pickup:
Pablo Picaso, Vincent Van Gogh, Salvidor Dali…
You musical style(s):
rock, hard rock, metal, post-punk, you get the picutre
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pickup was a Duncan Designed HB103B. The HB-103B is a high-output ceramic pickup. Essentially, I just replaced with the American-Made version. Even though I had a good sounding knock-off, the original is much, much better.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker, Classic Cover (Nickel)
Impedence or other specs:
16.7K or somewhere in the ballpark
Perceived output level:
Hot. Hotter than SH-5 Custom, not as hot as SH-4 JB Model.
Tone:
Really nicely balanced. Not thin at all.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using this with a Schecter C1+ and a Crate ALL TUBE VFX5112
amp. I also run it into Guitar Tracks 3. This is the bect rock pickup I have found. I started out trying to like DiMarzios, and they all sounded weak and horrible. I put a Duncan SH-5 Custom into a similar guitar–that was Sweet! The Distortion has more tonal color and power to it that the SH-5. I balanced this with a SH-1 ‘59 Model in the neck, it’s a great combo. Before this, I also had an SH-4 JB Model…icepick city! I couldn’t play a clean sound and be in the same room as my amp because it would split my head open! The JB was a lot hotter and it was dumbly simply to get squeals and harmonics. The Distortion has more oomph and bottom-end, whereas the JB sounded thin and whiney. The Distortion doesn’t make you sound like a drop-tuned cookie monster band, but it does AC/DC and Zep very nice. It is a compressed sound, and it will flatten out your playing a little, but it growls very nice. And even though it’s a ceramic pickup, I LOVE the clean sound! Great for Guns ‘N’ Roses Les Paul clean arpeggios. With the ‘59 in the neck, I can play any style.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play rock. This pickup rocks. I haven’t tried the neck model, but I put a more sane pickup in the neck for a sweeter sound.
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha SBG
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Randy Rhoads (Bridge)
You musical style(s):
Old School Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted PUs that would meet help me develop my style.
Pickup features:
Humbuckin & passive
Impedence or other specs:
12.7K (neck) , 16.6K (Bridge)
Perceived output level:
A hot as a JB or a Tone Zone … as hot as you can get without feeling that you are getting pelted with ice cubes.
Tone:
I find it has more bass than the Duncan spec chart shows. It’s quite balanced and can easily give you that chugga-chugga tone.
Sonic evaluation:
The Duncan Distortion (DD) is not trashy at all … a lot people get turned off by the name Distortion but really a sweet PU. Some people think it’s a Boss Metal Zone in a PU – it’s not. I’ve played DDs through all kinds of SS and Tube and Single Channel Marshalls to other higher gain amps and it always delivers. From Fat Strats to LPs the DD keeps its distinct tone. Listen to ‘Flying High Again’ by Rhoads/Ozzy that will give you a great idea of what a DD and a dimed Marshall can do. The DD produces what a lot of players call a compressed sound which means as you add gain it kinda rolls itself and get thicker and thicker. For example it can sound like Rhoads or through the clean channel and very little pedal distortion you get warm fuzz. It’s actually quite versatile BUT for a dirty type of sound. The clean is OK but a bit sterile.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It has a bunch of harmonics (like a JB) which I love and a great rhythm. There are more articulate PUs for Vai type stuff (like a DiMarzio Evo) but you will loose the rhythm. The DD is a great mix. The DD bridge and DD neck work very well together too. The middle position gives you P-90 like tone (heavy early Sabbath tone). It’s not dark or bright. If you?re the only lead guitarist and need both a heavy rhythm and a searing lead tone the DD is it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson SG
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 498T
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan SH-2n Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Everything (The Darkness, Zeppelin, Floyd, Bad Religion)
Reason for pickup change:
498T was OK but just seemed like it was missing something, In order to get a CRUNCHING sound I had to sacrifice good tone.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Pretty Hot – 16.6k
Perceived output level:
Pretty damn hot, a little hotter than a JB even.
Tone:
It’s very trebly and clearly defined for searing hot leads.
Sonic evaluation:
I play a Gibson SG through a 50W Marshall Valvestate combo. This pickup had no low end for me (even though my guitar is solid mahogany). Les Pauls are mahogany also but a lot heavier and thicker, so I think installed in an LP this pickup may sound better… if your guitar is not made of mahogany don’t even attempt this pickup unless you really want NO bass at all. Honestly I have to say this pickup sucks compared to the Duncan JB. I recently replaced my Distortion with a JB and was FLOORED at the difference it made. I have the tone I have always wanted now and believe me a JB can CRUNCH!!! I truly think the JB sounds much better when distorted, and it kicks ass for BOTH rhythm and lead. Enough bottom to palm mute all night long and definitely enough scream to cut through the band with your solos. Buy a JB instead for the versatility… the Distortion gives you one sound and if you don’t like it your screwed. The JB also sounds phenomenal clean. The Distortion is almost intolerable clean.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter 006 (2003 model)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, Punk, Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Well basically i wanted more chunk out of my guitar. Another reason for this is the stock pickups arent that crunchy and sounds blunt or maybe because of the covered pickup.
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
So-Hot-You-Don’t-Need-An-Amp
Tone:
trebly
Sonic evaluation:
I tested this pickup on an AVT150combo and with the settings used, it gave me a alot ofcrunch and a really good bottom feed. Also i think its because of the wood used for my guitar as it is a MAHOGANY body. Very trebly as from the specs they gave. This pickup definitely helped me balance my guitar up as i play rock mostly. I read one of the reviews saying that this pickup goes well with mahogany body. And yes..please read more before putting this baby on. Overall, real good crunch for leads for solo down to rocking riffs.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock, Punk, Metal
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone les paul Custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
sotck epiphone
Other pickups on guitar:
dimarzio Evolution
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
all genres of rock except emo i freakin hate emo
Reason for pickup change:
Epiphone pick ups suck
Pickup features:
Passive Humbacker
Impedence or other specs:
i don’t know
Perceived output level:
Veru High output very strong pickup
Tone:
trebly and middy with a bit of bass
Sonic evaluation:
A Les paul through a teck 21 trademark 10
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
its great for heavy rock with lots of distortion but its really to high an output for really bright clean settings
Model of guitar or bass:
epiphone fat-210
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
epiphone stock, classic 57, epi LP pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
2 single coils
Artists using this pickup:
some guy
You musical style(s):
hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
i’m an idiot. should have left the 57!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it had an aged magnet, i’m crying every day about that one.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
ask seymour
Perceived output level:
hot, ceramic
Tone:
extreme mid and high end fizz, but loud, too bad they didn’t fill in the bass. buy a custom sh-5!!
Sonic evaluation:
marshall mg solid state or orange/ampeg tube heads, vintage 30s, custom cabs for the orange.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
hard rock. unfortunately this pickup has the same curse as the geo. lynch model, hotter, but for the soloist. cutting on high-mid, not so hot for rhythm.
Model of guitar or bass:
Dipinto Hellion
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock SJL??
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan ‘59
Artists using this pickup:
dunno
You musical style(s):
rock and metal…
Reason for pickup change:
stock pick up was bad
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
it’s hot…but trebly…beware!! cuz the wood of ur guitar can affect the sound of this pick up!!! read on!!
Tone:
trebly…but very very loud & very well balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Boss wah wah pedal – Boss Chromatic tuner – Line 6 distortion modeler – Ibanez Tube Screamer – DigiTech Turbo Flange – Boss Chorus Ensemble – Boss Digital Delay DD5 – Vox Volume Pedal – Marshall Dual super lead head & 120W Cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
heavy rock and metal mostly…not realli THAT suitable for classic rock..
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson KVX10
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Duncan designed 102 or 103 i think
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock pickup neck
Artists using this pickup:
Randy Rhodes!
You musical style(s):
Thrash Metal, some harder stuff like death and black too. Even some Hard Rock.
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup sounded a bit weak, it was ok but I wanted a screaming lead tone. I guess i got what I wished for..
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I’ll check that up.
Perceived output level:
A bit louder than stock pickups, I had to turn volume down so the other guitarist could be heard!
Tone:
Trebly balanced tone, not to bassy, not muddy at all, very clear distorted.
Sonic evaluation:
Jackson King V moedel KVX10, Hughes and Kettner Warp 7 212 amp. Sometimes I also use Boss MT2 metalzone pedal, great for trash but kills a lot of tone and got A LOT OF FEEDBACK.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I’m most into Thrash Metal, especially 80s’ bands like Metallica and Testament. I guess it fits OK, great rock lead tone but I would like a little more bassy hard palm mute tone. It’s great for rock, hard rock and some Heavy Metal of the 80s’. I’ve not tried to play it clean, use neck pickup for that sort of things.
Model of guitar or bass:
95 Squire left handed
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Standard
Other pickups on guitar:
Standard Squire junk
Artists using this pickup:
Me
You musical style(s):
Christian Rock, Blues,Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Sick and tired of distortion sounding like a mosquito attack. I always use the bridge as distortion and never clean too treble
Pickup features:
Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Very Hot, volume and distortion i need to drop i much lower than it is
Tone:
Clean tops and Nice tight bottom end, stick the volume pot on this baby 4sure
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a Squire into a Boss GT3 and then into a Peavy Bandit 112.
setting i had that emulated a fender twin where gret sounded nice and clean now they with the Sh6 Duncan distortion they become not overdriven but distorted. Early days yet but i have noticed it doesnt like the modelling but does like the effects (didnt see this one coming).
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play mainly for church so i use the neck+ mids for a jazz/srv sound and a let the Bridge do its thang
Model of guitar or bass:
custom, maple neck , mahogany+maple top body, tom bridge
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
none, first pickups on guitar
Other pickups on guitar:
none at this moment
Artists using this pickup:
don’t know
You musical style(s):
stoner rock, punk rock, anything that rocks and is not metal
Reason for pickup change:
Well, after I routed the hole in the body, it kinda looked empty without a pickups *grin*.
Pickup features:
single coil, passive
Impedence or other specs:
see other comments
Perceived output level:
I have not compared it with other pickups in the same guitar, so I cannot judge that.
Tone:
Balanced with distortion, (too) muddy when clean
Sonic evaluation:
Home built SG shaped body, mahogany body with maple top and maple neck. 14 degrees headstock angle. Set neck, tom bridge. 500k volume pot, 500k tone pot + 20nf cap. My amplifier is a jcm900, bass on 50%, presence, middle and treble on 100%.
Through the lead channel (full gain) it sounds really good. It gives a
sharp attack when you palm mute, but it is never harsh. When playing chords it is nice and smooth and when you play riffs it really growles.
I should say that I’m really a single coil man, so hardcore humbucker fans might not agree with me.
If you play it clean, it is too muddy. I basically sounds like my strat with the tone pot set to 0. I’m going to coil tap it, to see if that improves it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
stoner rock/ punk rock
Model of guitar or bass:
Les Paul Standard
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan 59
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch (Old Dokken albums)
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Old school metal
Reason for pickup change:
Stock one was shot
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Was looking for a hotter pickup for leads
Tone:
Lots of highs
Sonic evaluation:
I was running this pickup in my Les Paul through a Marshall AVT50H head and sometimes my JCM900 head and Marshall 4×12 cab. It was good for doing leads and had a nice distorion sound to it when on the dirty channel. However, it had little or no bass and when I tried to balance this out by turning the bass up on the amp and my rackmount eq, it just got muddy. I recently sold the guitar with the pickup in it in favor of a Lonestar strat in which i just installed a Screamon Demon into. The Screamon Demon was exactly what I was looking for. A harder crunchy sounding pickup that does not distort the individual notes when playing rythmn or lead. I wanted distortion, crunch, clarity, and searing leads, harmonics and sustains. I got all this out of the Screamon Demon. Its amazing. The Duncan Distortion was good for leads but they often came out fuzzy. Also was noisy when used in combination with a high gain amp like a 5150, or Dual/Triple Rectofier. Even my AVT50H marshall or my JCM900 marshall wasn’t able to get a crisp sound out of it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I would recommend this pickup to people who don’t know much about tone or are just looking for the words “distortion” on a pickup so that they can play pop punk. Its really not suitable for playing much other then punk music and mabe hardcore. Also, would not recommend using one in the neck position which I have seen done.
Model of guitar or bass:
gibson gothic explorer
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
dimarzio FRED
Other pickups on guitar:
dimarzio super disortion
Artists using this pickup:
george lynch and some others
You musical style(s):
metal ( old metallica,slayer,pantera,in flames)
Reason for pickup change:
the dimarzio FRED sucked massive ass and was real weak
Pickup features:
passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
dont know
Perceived output level:
better than the FRED, i say medium-hot. not tons of output
Tone:
REALLY TREBLY.
Sonic evaluation:
gibson gothic explorer loaded with dimarzio super distortion in neck and duncan distortion in bridge into a marshall JCM 900 halfstack with a rocktron intellifex in the effects loop.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i play mostly metal and this pick up would be good for punk or “prep” rock ( puddle of mudd, 3 doors down)
Model of guitar or bass:
gibson les paul custom
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
sh-8
Other pickups on guitar:
sh-1 bridge
Artists using this pickup:
pod
You musical style(s):
metal, shred, hardcore blues, hardcore classical, hardcore country
Reason for pickup change:
Stock Were junk
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
fire
Perceived output level:
So-Hot-You-Don’t-Need-An-Amp
Tone:
muddy as water
Sonic evaluation:
i use a hardcore vamp2 which is super hardcore. It have good mesa,have good clean, truly hardcore. It combine well with me guitar, and los pickupos. el Pickup es hardcores. Son los bien for metal. I no have good english or spanish. Me chink. Part wop too. it is solid pickup for expensive price. Shred like a pineapple it can. Vibo en Los Angeles with casa blanca, so can afford over-priced pickups.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Metal, Chinese music(like the song “dragon got my nose”)
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Telecaster (Japan black paisley-unique!!!) made in 1984
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
PAF-style humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
vintage telecaster neck
Artists using this pickup:
don’t know
You musical style(s):
melodic punk rock (green day, blink-182, weezer)
Reason for pickup change:
the PAF-style hum had too much middle tones and too little impedance (i think about 7 kOhms)
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16.4 kOhms (high output!)
Perceived output level:
it’s very hot, but not ultra-hot. As name says, great for distortion stuff
Tone:
well, it’s kinda trebly!!!
Sonic evaluation:
I am using Fender Telecaster thru Marshall JCM900 Dual Reverb 50W (early El34 version) thru Marshall 4×10” vintage cab. jcm900 is a very trebly amp, this pickup is trebly too. So the sound is trebly. When i turn marshall louder (very loud), sound is GREAT. Identical to those guitars on “Dookie” by Green Day. (Billy joe used jcm900 and a Seymour Duncan “JB” model which i believe is very similar to Duncan Distortion!). Clean channel is great – real vintage sound!!!! full and rich
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play punk rock. For the stuff like Green Day and Blink-182 this pickup is a great choice, but when you are going to play stuff like Weezer, buy other or install it on the neck position. Because on brigde is just to trebly/mid for weez stuff.
Model of guitar or bass:
epiphone LP special II
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
epiphone stock bridge hum
Other pickups on guitar:
epiphone stock neck hum
Artists using this pickup:
don?t know, probably some, since this is a (very) good PU. i don?t know if it is stock in any guitars..
You musical style(s):
i need complete clean to insane hi-gain sound for all the styles i play in bands and at home (yet i?m using this guitar as a backup only). mostly mid- to higain-shred, for hardcore/metalcore, grind, alternative, emo, etc…
Reason for pickup change:
the epiphone hum sucked. actually it still sucks.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
dunno.
Perceived output level:
its mcuh more hotter than the epi stock HB, hotter than the gibson 498, yet not as warm, and not as hot as a EMG 81.
Tone:
its got lots of bass and mid and not too much shitty screaming trebles (which i hate). good sound for me.
Sonic evaluation:
i?m using a ENGL screamer 50W fulltube with a M/B 2×12″ halfback custom copy, EB speakers. distortion predominantly through pedals into the ENGL?s clean channel.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
as i said, i need and play nearly all types of sound, predominantly mid- to higain rock/metal sounds, and this PU suits this sound very good (not as good as an EMG 81, but hey.. it?s passive!).
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul standard
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson designed pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
A gibson desgned neck pickup
Artists using this pickup:
Jerry Horton of Papa Roach
You musical style(s):
Heavy Rock, Punk, Rock, Grunge
Reason for pickup change:
The Gibson designed Epiphone bridge pickup is very powerful but not balanced, too many highs, but it sound also very muddy especially when distorted. I hate this pickup so i changed it.
Pickup features:
Humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know check the webiste. There’s a tone chart
Perceived output level:
Little less than Gibson designed, but very hot, more more punchy!!!
Tone:
balanced in my guitar, tend to have some highs but with some tricky it’s ok!
Sonic evaluation:
What a tone! Even in my 15w Fender Frontman Amp it changed completely the sound! i’ve got THAT sound i was always looking for! a punchy, raw distorted sound for doing at the best punk and rock!
I’m very happy now! And it’s NEVER MUDDY!!!! It have a very nice twangy clean tone…it’s so sweet!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock Punk Grunge. Not very suitable for jazz blues.
Model of guitar or bass:
Electra SG (not sure of specific model name)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Dimarzio Super Distortion
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock pickup (I think)
Artists using this pickup:
Not sure, maybe Shaun Morgan of Seether
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, sometimes Blues
Reason for pickup change:
The Dimarzio Super Distorion had to much feedback. I couldn’t stand it. I couldn’t crank my amp up past 1 before it would start up.
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
It’s pretty hot. There is feedback but if you keep your fingers on the strings, there won’t be any.
Tone:
It gets real bassy when you down tune but not too bassy.
Sonic evaluation:
Electra SG into Jimi Hendrix Dunlop Wah into Boss DS-1 Distortion into Danelectro Hashbrowns Flanger into Danelectro Milkshake Chorus into Danelectro Danecho into Peavy Bandit 112.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Perfect for almost any kind of rock, it just depends on your distortion. Perfect for bridge position.
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter 006 Elite
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Design HB103 ( suppose to resemble the Duncan Distortion)
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Design single coil
Artists using this pickup:
Terri Corso (AAF), Jerry Horton, …
You musical style(s):
straight- up rock and roll
Reason for pickup change:
just looking the sound i want
Pickup features:
Passive
Impedence or other specs:
check website
Perceived output level:
pretty high output, but nothing ridiculously
Tone:
it is slightly trebly but has a good of bass and mids to keep it decently balanced
Sonic evaluation:
My amp is a 65 watt Crate combo( overdrive is reasonable good). It performs well w/ OD. It surpisely has a good clean tone. It is very clear but also possesses a very raw OD tone. Also tried it with some marshalls, sounded excellent
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It can fit with blues, classic rock, modern rock, and probably with metal
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Squier Doube Fat Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock neck Humb
Artists using this pickup:
Your Mom
You musical style(s):
Punk
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups = no good.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
I’d say it’s pretty damn hot. I have 2 guitars w/ Duncan Invaders and I used to use EMG 81’s. This is about equal to those outputs.
Tone:
Very well balanced.
Sonic evaluation:
You can see above the guitar I’m using: A cheap ass Squier Double Fat Strat I bought “used” on ebay, although it looked fresh off the line when I received it. Anyway, after using EMG 81’s for a loooong time, I decided to try something new. The other guitarist in my band was using Duncan Invaders and his set up sounded great, so I got a Tom Delonge Strat. It sounded pretty darn good, so I put a pair in my Fender Double Fat Strat too and have been using them since. Then I decided to get a crap guitar to beat the crap out of and modify and all that jazz, so I got the Squier. At that point I was thinking to myself and even getting some comments that my setup sounded a little Muddy. So I figured I’d give another pickup a try when I got the Squier. I read all the reviews here on HC – all different makes and models – and decided to give the SH-6 Duncan Distortion a try. It sounds so much better than the Invader it’s ridiculous. very well balanced. lows mids and highs are all at the perfect levels. very crisp sounding both high and low. no mud at all. I have it running through a Boss Compressor/Sustain, into a Boss Noise Supressor, into an Ernie Ball volume pedal, and finally into a Mesa Dual Recto w/ Recto 4×12 cab and it sounds freakin’ great. So great in fact, I’m considering swapping the Invaders in my Fender Double Fat and Tom Delonge as well. I highly recommend this pickup. It’s very well rounded.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Obviously, from the name, it’s more suited to rock, punk, metal…. anything with heavy distortion.
Model of guitar or bass:
Heavily Modified Epiphone G-310
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Epiphones
Other pickups on guitar:
both Distortions
Artists using this pickup:
?????
You musical style(s):
umm….. yeah……..
Reason for pickup change:
the Epis were decent, but not good. they sounded muddy down low, and were pretty much just unremarkable in every way. nothing really wrong with them, but nothing really good about them either.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker (like the title says)
Impedence or other specs:
check the website, i don’t remember
Perceived output level:
more than the Epi’s but probably less than active pups
Tone:
fairly balance, actually.
Sonic evaluation:
right now, all i’ve got is this modded Epiphone ($400 worth of modifications into a $200 instrument), which with these pickups actually does sound damn good. detuned low end can sound brutal, the mids can have punch, and the higher mids, and the flat out highs can sound brilliant. the things can make the sweetest sounds when you play up on some of the higher frets, which is great. it responds damn well to all sorts of distortion (obviously), especially my 535Q, but the kicker when i bought them is that they sound just as good clean.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
like i said, it sounds good both clean and distorted, and i use it in both positions. it’s pretty versatile, which isn’t what you would think by the name.
Model of guitar or bass:
Grubisa custom made 58′98′ Flying V, all Mahogany Body/Neck with Ebony frett board (modernised version of a ‘58 gibson V, but with 24 fretts and reverse scimitar headstock, all black hardware and sperzals
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
MegaDrive, Super3, Super Distortion, EMG 81, SH-4 JB, ToneZone
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour duncan SH-1 ‘59
Artists using this pickup:
I am the only Thrash Metal guitarist that I know of that uses this.Serious!
You musical style(s):
THRASH METAL (mainly) & REAL METAL(all the different styles combined in one,I truly love them all, from Manowar to Slayer to Morbid Angel etc), non of this tune down, 7 string weak & slow , ‘Mallcore’ sounding KORN , SLIPNOT etc…!
Reason for pickup change:
I needed the BROADEST sound possible, without resorting to active’s, as they are o.k. but too sterile, and lack down picking “choppy chunk” at the end of the day.(like the sound in”DIABOLUS IN MUSICA”-SLAYER-its fucking great, BUT it lacks the ATTACK of the “Rain in Blood/South of Heaven/Seasons in the Abyss sound!)
Pickup features:
humbucking, passive
Impedence or other specs:
: 16.4k Ohm. highoutput
Perceived output level:
Has more output than the Megadrive & JB, and alot more than the Duncan Custom.
Tone:
The Duncan Distortion has an enlarged BUT tight choppy bass and low mids, nice growly LOUD, but broad mids, nice smooth highend & Harmonics without being harsh. Overall, incredebly clear! It is a more compressed sound than a MegaDrive
Sonic evaluation:
The Grubisa flying V is an all mahogany,glued in neck(goes down to the bridge p.u., just like an original ‘58 Gibson V)guitar. it has 24 fretts(24′3/4″ scale)with tune-o-matic bridge and V anchore plate,strings strung through the body. My amp is a Marshall JCM 2000 TSL 2000 100w head loaded with Electro-Harmonix EL-34 powertubes & 4 Sovtek 12ax7 LPS preamp tubes.It runs through TWO Marshall 1960B cabinet,that has been hard wired(the switchable ohm plugs removed, because they provide an unstable OHM-age) with the regular celestion t-75’s. I NO effects exept just one original first issue Ibanez AC-99(nice)I also use Belden leads with switchcraft jacks.My sound has alot of mids, not your regular typicle gutless, wimpy “scooped mids” sound. My E.Q. is as follows:gain-14/20,master volume-6-7,presence-7,bass-10,mids-8,treble-7-8.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play all styles of Metal,e.g.Thrash (Mainly 90%) Death,power,progressive,traditional Metal-REAL METAL!!! not Mallcore (Korn, System of the Korn, SlipKorn, Insane Korn Posse, DefKornes…you get the picture) .This pick up is exellent for the bridge, and for Metal,and rock in general, if you don’t like the PAF(you are crazy if you don’t, for rock, PAF’s are great!)
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Classic
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 498T stock
Other pickups on guitar:
SH-6b Duncan Distortion Bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t really know
You musical style(s):
Mostly hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
I was not at all displeased with the stock Gibson neck humbucker, but I already had a Duncan in the bridge, so I figured this would even things out.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
It has the same volume level as the same model for bridge position, so it balances nicely.
Tone:
More accentuated in the low end than a stock Gibson pickup, but has enough highs and mids to sound balanced, and at the same time, provide a nice and complimentary contrast to the same model bridge pickup.
Sonic evaluation:
Guitar/amp rig is a Les Paul Classic thru a Peavey 5150 II head and a Mesa Boogie Recto Cab. This rig has a thick bottom-end. The SH-6n is EQ’d just enough to where it’s right at the fine line between muddy and articulate. It can sound thick and rich, but also, if you whack the strings just right, it can display some single coil style nuance to it as well.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Again, mostly hard rock. Seymour Duncan makes both neck and bridge versions of this humbucker.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Classic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson 500T
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson 498T in neck
Artists using this pickup:
Randy Rhoads
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted a pickup with a different EQ curve that was more responsive to harmonics.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Big ceramic magnet. One of the highest output pickups that Seymour Duncan makes. The output is pretty much on par with the stock Gibson ceramic pickups.
Tone:
Sizeable treble spike in the EQ curve, moderate upper mid punch, and a little less in the bass. The treble spike can definitely say “Hello!”, but a little tweaking with the tone knob can sqare that away.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Peavey 5150 II head that drives a Mesa Boogie Recto Cab. So with a Les Paul, my rig is designed to probably emphasize the low end a little more than most, so a pickup with a good treble spike is probably needed to balance out.
I was actually pretty satisfied with the stock Gibson pickup, but the Gibson 500T is a little more emphasized in the mids. Mid eq is needed to help generate a smoother, more full sounding distortion, but too much can make a guitar sound transistorized.
The SH-6 leans more toward the high freqs, allowing for more harmonics to ring through.As far as the harmonics go, it’s not as efficient as, say, a good set of EMGs, but it does the trick. Provides a good, raw, rock ‘n’ roll sound.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Well, Seymour Duncan does cave a neck position version of this pickup, which I have on order, but it hasn’t come in yet
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson King V
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stocks
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive, old, rusty stuff
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Loud, until you compare it to a Emg
Tone:
Bassy, until you compare it to a Emg
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Metal
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter C1
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Designed
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
Jerry Horton
You musical style(s):
Rock, Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more sustain and more of the hard rock sound which, as good as they where, the duncan designed pickups didn’t offer.
Pickup features:
Humbucker (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
High output, more than most seymour duncan pickups less than invader
Tone:
Trebly
Sonic evaluation:
Schecter C1 through, Ibanez chorus-flanger pedal, Danelectro tremolo pedal, Jim Dunlop Crybaby, Marshall Jackhammer then into a Marshall M80RCD
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play rock and metal. This pickup is fuckin awesome for this style of music it has good sustain and a nice mean distortion. The clean sound is quite nice aswell. I couldn’t see this pickup suiting jazz or classical players but it could certainly hold its own in the blues department. Buy it now.
Model of guitar or bass:
Santana SE
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
an EMG 81
Other pickups on guitar:
left the stock or neck pickup there
Artists using this pickup:
The papa roah guy, and Mark Tremonti of Creed.
You musical style(s):
ASS KICKIN’ METAL
Reason for pickup change:
Hated the EMG. Shure an EMG is active. BUT THIS IS JUST AS GOOD AS AN EMG AND IT’S PASSIVE! Plus an EMG sounds different every time you pick your guitar up because the battery dies. GO BUY ONE OF THEESE HOT MAMAS
Pickup features:
It’s a humbucker, and it’s passive. GREATEST PICKUP EVER MADE, SO WHATS IT MATTER.
Impedence or other specs:
beter than an emg 81, or an 85. DOESNT MATTER,JUST GO BUY ONE
Perceived output level:
Hotter than an EMG 81. Yet it still delivers great clean tone. Sounds great through my Marshall.
Tone:
This pickup sounds trebly, but not annoying.
Sonic evaluation:
A marshall AVT 150 combo
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Not suitable for country.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Faded Brown SG
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock 490T
Other pickups on guitar:
Nickel Covered Duncan 59 Model in Neck
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know
You musical style(s):
Rock, Blues, Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The stock bridge pickup was way too muddy, and pretty much sounded like poop.
Pickup features:
Custom oredered Humbucker for bridge with Nickel Cover
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Very hot, but still clear.
Tone:
Kinda quacky, but lots of harmonics. Does what a Bridge Huimbucker should!
Sonic evaluation:
I play a Mesa Dual rectifier through a Marshall 1960TV cab with Greenbacks. The pickup has TONS of harmonics and yet still has alot of control. A bit quacky, but not too overwhelming. One note: I play LOUD and with alot of Gain, this pickup just doesn’t want to squeal unless I am deafeningly loud and have the guitar in front of my cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great for Metal, Rock, and raunchy biting blues. Decent for clean stuff, but the 59 model is better.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez DTX-120 Destroyer
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Ibanez Pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Ibanez Pickup
Artists using this pickup:
don’t know
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock to Heavy Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Pickup sounded very muddy. The Heights weren’t very bright, so i decided to do something about it.
Pickup features:
passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
In comparision to my old PU it totally blows it away. WOW!
Tone:
Very balanced and clear. Bright heights. A little bassy.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using the SH-6 in the brigde position in my Ibanez DTX-120 through a Johnson J-Station into my computer for recording.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Like i said, i play everything from Hard Rock to Heavy Metal. Works great on anything distorted. Clean it also sounds better than my Ibanez Stock neck Pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone 58 Flying V
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
ESP LTD Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Epiphone
Artists using this pickup:
Wayne Static I think…maybe more??
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock and Metal are my most common but I like most other music except large doses of punk or ska
Reason for pickup change:
LTD HB I had on the bridge was pulled off of an ESP EX-100. It was fairly good considering it’s a stock value-guitar pickup. I just wanted something a little hotter and tighter
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
Definately a little hotter than the JB. I can now easily tell it has a little higher output than my neck pickup
Tone:
Clear and tight! I didn’t think the wood (or whatever else) on this guitar would let it’s sound be this good. The lows are so clean and responsive, the highs are clear and sweet while at the same time not ear piercing. I’m simply impressed.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m playing from my Boss DS-1, MT-2, OS-2 pedals into my Digitech RP200 processor into my Yamaha 660 PA system With a couple Peavey TLS4’s and a couple CGM 1×12’s w/horns
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Like I said I play mostly Hard-Rock/Metal and for my Style it suites me perfectly!! I have mine on the bridge and love it..I have no idea how it would be on the neck and I’ve heard both good and bad so..???
Model of guitar or bass:
Schecter C-1
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Designed JB
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan SH-2 Jazz
Artists using this pickup:
Jerry Horton of Papa Roach
You musical style(s):
nu-metal esque
Reason for pickup change:
The Duncan Designed pickups just weren’t cutting it for me.
Pickup features:
Passiva Humbucking pickup
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
The Distortion seems to be a fairly high output pickup, but a controlled output. Not totally crazy.
Tone:
Raw. Fairly balanced highs/bass, a little scooped on the mids
Sonic evaluation:
I play my C-1 through a Digitech RP-200 to a Peavey Bandit amp. Holy mother of god! This kicks ass! A lot less feedback than my Duncan Designs had… I also tried it thru a Marshall Valvestate (my friends) and again, it blew me away.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Nu-Metal, Punk Rock, Funk… a great match! DON’T use it in the neck. Also, it seems that this pickup was designed for guitars with mahogany bodies!
Model of guitar or bass:
Custom BC Rich Warlock
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
Randy Rhoads and lots more
You musical style(s):
Thrash and Speed Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
High output. More than the JB in my Jackson KV-1
Tone:
Balanced but a little trebly. I like it that way.
Sonic evaluation:
Warlock > Boss MT2 > Marshall 100 watt
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play metal. I love Megadeth, and this pickup does a great job getting THAT sound. Not so great clean, but it’s ok… Never muddy!
Model of guitar or bass:
1968 sg custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
ibanez super 70, seymour duncan invader
Other pickups on guitar:
original gibsons
Artists using this pickup:
mostly guitarists
You musical style(s):
hardcore, metal, death
Reason for pickup change:
to get a betta sound
Pickup features:
hummer
Impedence or other specs:
blah blah
Perceived output level:
what the fuck is “hot”? i guess this is “scorching” or “flame-grillin” blah
Tone:
well balanced (depending on guitar)
Sonic evaluation:
mainly a peavey 5150 into a sweet Burman 4×12 but also a laney 50 watt pro-tube lead head into a Marshall 2×12 1922 cab
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
these questions are weirdly related to each other
Model of guitar or bass:
Raven RP-300
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t care.
You musical style(s):
Metal.
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup was on the weak side.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker.
Impedence or other specs:
See Site.
Perceived output level:
High output.
Tone:
Nice crunch and sustain, Good treble and mids, low bass. Also sounds on the tight side.
Sonic evaluation:
Raven LP copy, into a Rack setup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great match for this guitar. It gives a good crunch with a good treble boost.
Model of guitar or bass:
Raven RP-300
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock neck Humbucker
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know.
You musical style(s):
Metal.
Reason for pickup change:
The stock was more a PAF type sound. I wanted a heavier sound.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker.
Impedence or other specs:
See site.
Perceived output level:
High output, a lot more then the stock.
Tone:
Pretty balanced, nice treble and mids. Low tight bass.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a Raven RP-300, and different amps and Distortion pedals.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play metal, and the pickup works great for it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Kramer Neck Thru
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
Lots, Rhoads, Lynch bla bla, me
You musical style(s):
Anything interesting that takes talent and creativeness
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup had lots of output but lacked clarity
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Hotter than standard PAF but not over the top
Tone:
balanced more on trebly side. perfect for metal and hardrock bridge pickup
Sonic evaluation:
Line 6, Marshall jcm800, A couple Peavey’s. This pickup is really tight with great tone. Reacts well to playing dynamics. I can’t believe somebody would actually rate this classic pickup a 1 or anything less than 8. Tell that to George Lynch and he’ll rough you up. This pickup has been recorded on countless albums and is considered a hard rock and metal classic much like Dimarzio’s SuperD. Just cuz some punk ass punk kids don’t have tight right hand picking technique they don’t have to take it out on the pickup that’s what invaders are for. For punk rockers who don’t know how to play. Once you learn some right hand alternate picking techniques and build up a tight rythm you will appreciate what this pickup can do. Gives plenty of crunch and very tight bass response for the scratchy Rhoads, Lynch palm muted lines. Mr. Scary, Over the mountain etc.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Hard Rock and metal, not much else
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson DK2
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Duncan Design Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Design Single Coils
Artists using this pickup:
George Lynch used to use them before the “Scremin Demon”
You musical style(s):
80’s shred, Metal 80’s to current, punk, blues, funk, classic rock 60’s 70’s
Reason for pickup change:
Duncan Design humbucker realy sucked and I had this Seymor Duncan Distortion bucker in the case just laying around so…..
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
High output, very high!
Tone:
It has a good balance of everything. Adjust your controls on the amp for whatever you want.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using my Jackson DK2 to a BOSS Metal Zone distortion to a DOD delay to a CRATE GFX 212. I also use a NADY wireles.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play alot of Dokken, RATT, Cinderella, all the way up to Linkin Park, POD, AAF, ect.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG270
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Ibanez Powersound
Other pickups on guitar:
Ibanez Powersound
Artists using this pickup:
I dunno
You musical style(s):
Heavy Punk Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The powersounds were good but i antedsomething a little less muddy and I wanted just overall better distortion…Definatly NOT what i got!!!
Pickup features:
Humbucking passive pickup
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
No hot…very cold!
Tone:
Trebly and Twangy, I did not like it at all!
Sonic evaluation:
I have the Inanez RG270 liek I said and a Marshall MG100Rcd driving a4X12 Marshall JCm 900 cab. I don’t know what this pikcups problem is. Any stoc pickup I have used sounds better than this!!! Itsounds like a fender single coil….in fact it actually sounds better without distortion! Maybe it’s my guitar or the amp combination…but I had my friend check to see if it was installed rigt and he said it was…and the sound is terrible. If you on one and do not know what I’m talking about…then maybe I have a defective one, because I can’t see anyone using this pickup for hrd rock and liking it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play hard punk and it fails at delivering the punh I need.
Model of guitar or bass:
1985 gibson flying v
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
dimarzio-super distortion-bridge/dimarzio-paf pro-neck
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
anyone who’s serious about TONE!!!!!!!
You musical style(s):
progressive rock-original stuff,top-40 fluff(cover band blues)
Reason for pickup change:
i bought this guitar used,and it came with the dimarzio’s.dimarzio makes a fine line of pickups,i just prefer duncan’s.WHAT A DIFFERENCE!it’s like night and day.gone is the muddy,blurred sound i got from the dimarzio’s.now i’ve got tight deep bass,with distinct mids,and beautiful glassy highs.i really feel that these particular pickups tend to favor mahoghany built guitars,and since i favor gibsons to begin with,i’ve found my choice of pickups.
Pickup features:
humbucking/passive
Impedence or other specs:
n/a
Perceived output level:
BRILLIANT!
Tone:
tight,deep lows,well voiced mids,glassy highs-it’s all i need.
Sonic evaluation:
THESE PICKUPS ARE A GODSEND.SEYMOUR’S A FRIGGIN GENIUS!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
great for hard rock/metal-blues too!
Model of guitar or bass:
Dean standard ML (very rare guitar, mahogany w/ set mahogany neck and no binding.
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
first stock powersounds in ibanez, then stock deans
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
alien ant farm, and papa roach I think
You musical style(s):
ska-pop-punk-core
Reason for pickup change:
i was having to turn down the treble on my new-at-the-time marshall AVT150 half stack, back when the Ibanez destroyer was my only guitar. the squeeeeeling was deafening. I got my dean, but i wanted to make my Ibanez usable, so i replaced both pickups with duncan distortions. I knew that the basswood body didn’t do these beuty’s justice, so i then moved the bridge p.u. into the dean.
Pickup features:
humbucking, and comes in a number of cool colors, if that means anything
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
hot, but under control. very growling type sound, grinding without the fuzz
Tone:
can be bassy, if you don’t tweak and take time to work on your amp.
Sonic evaluation:
I am running my dean as my main guitar straight into my Marshall AVT150 half stack.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This p.u. is probably the best ska-core p.u. that I’ve ever heard, and of course it’s great for rock and harder stuff, but theres a shocker hiding in the neck pick up. if you have a humbucker equiped guitar, and want to play dirty blues, then the distortion neck p.u. can most definatly give you what your looking for, with a great thick crunchy sound. Crazy, huh!
Model of guitar or bass:
Dean ML platinum
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Beats me
You musical style(s):
Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pick-up had absolutely no bite, or punch whatsoever
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
I dunno
Perceived output level:
More than the screamin’ demon I have in my MII Deluxe
Tone:
Kinda bassy
Sonic evaluation:
I play out of a Marshall VS102R. The guitar I put it in is an
inexpensive Dean ML. The difference in sound is unbelievable!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock
Model of guitar or bass:
parts guitar, les paul type
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
I dunno, probably many.
You musical style(s):
punk
Reason for pickup change:
Had the pickup laying around so I figured I would use it
for something.
Pickup features:
Humbucker, passive
Impedence or other specs:
medium hot output
Perceived output level:
This is a medium hot output pickup. Nice output, but not insane. This is good.
Tone:
Somewhat middy, nice clear distortion. Nicely balanced treble/bass.
Sonic evaluation:
From what I can tell, this pickup sounds great with tube amps or amps with tube preamps. Through solid stated gear it is fine, but it really seems to shine when tubes are involved. Through my 5150 this thing sounds great. I ran my frankenstein les paul into the rythm channel of my 5150 head, put the pre gain on 5, the post (volume) on 4, and this pickup sounded noticably better to me than a few others I have tried. The tone was warm and crunchy. It was easy to dial in a “brown” sound with this pickup. I next tried a Marshall Valvestate. Sounded good there too. Through a Line 6 it sounded good, but not noticably better than any other decent humbucker. This pickup really seems to get along with 12AX7 preamp tubes. Seems to feedback less at high volumes compared to other stuff I have used. Easy to control. I like that, and so do audiences.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mainly punk, this pickup seems to be a great match. It might suck in the neck position, I don’t know. Seems like it would be fine.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul – what else??
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock Gibson humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
who cares
You musical style(s):
punk rock and roll
Reason for pickup change:
usual dumb sounding stock poo pickups
Pickup features:
humbucker – passive
Impedence or other specs:
huh?
Perceived output level:
sounds great i think
Tone:
just play music that sounds good to your ear. i love people who say ‘low strings sound too bassy’, ‘ highs too trebly’, blah blah blah. if they made a pickup that everyone liked, they would have 300,000 different models!
Sonic evaluation:
Gibson Les Paul Special, ‘79 Marshall 50w JMP head, Boss overdrive pedal. thats it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG570
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
stcok pickups
Artists using this pickup:
does it matter, cause it shouldn’t
You musical style(s):
Hardcore-Metal
Reason for pickup change:
wanted to get a tighter sounded with a punchier bottom end
Pickup features:
Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
not as hot as you think…
Tone:
trebly with no bottom
Sonic evaluation:
I am playing through a Mesa Boogie Dual Recto into a Mesa Boogit 4×12 half stack. Which sounded really sick with the stock pickups…well until i tried the SH-6
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good for rock very rich high end
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG320
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Ibanez Powersound & Duncan Custom Custom
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan 59
Artists using this pickup:
Any Metal players should
You musical style(s):
Metal , Hardrock
Reason for pickup change:
THe stock pickup sounded weak , and unclear.
The Custom Custom is good , but too sweet for my taste.
Pickup features:
Passive Hum
Impedence or other specs:
It’s all on the duncan’s offical websote.
Perceived output level:
Hot , I compared it with a EMG81 , it came real close.
Tone:
I don’t want to use the word Harsh but it’s the kind of tone I like.
Sonic evaluation:
Ibanez RG320 -> Mesa Rectifier , it gets pretty close to the early metallica tone. A little dry and harsh on my ibanez but great for metal rhythm.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
‘81 Ibanez Destroyer2, ‘82 Ibanez Destroyer 2, ‘84 Ibanez Destroyer 2 (still don’t have an artist!!!)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Ibanez O.E.M.’s
Other pickups on guitar:
Neck original on 81,82, Sh-6 on 84
Artists using this pickup:
..well I do
You musical style(s):
50’s,60’s,70’s,80’s,90’s,00’s,10’s..oh wait too far
Reason for pickup change:
Needed more flexibilty than ‘82 offered and definitely more than ‘84 is capable of. My ‘81 I bought with a double-creme Sh-6 already installed and loved it, called Seymour Duncan with the “DD-J” info on the back of the P/U and was informed it was a SH-6, so bought three more and installed them.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucker w/ coil tap capabilties
Impedence or other specs:
8.0k first coil, 8.5k second coil (one closest to bridge) FOR BRIDGE POSITION VERSION
Perceived output level:
More than a PAF Gibson, Less than active EMG’s. USE YOUR PICKUP HEIGHTH, it’s your friend….
Tone:
Humbucker mode….perfect!! Tapped mode w/humbucker neck…perfect Tapped mode by itself… Ideal if you like a hot strat
Sonic evaluation:
SH-6 in bridge position + Marshall JCM-800 2210 w/obligatory double 412 cabs = Metallica “Ride the Lightning” to a “T”. Coil tapped Sh-6 with neck humbucker through Fender Twin = “Respect”- Aretha Franklin.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I honestly play everything… even play country.. (yeah go ahead knock it, but the pay’s good pardner!!) This pickup is completely unsuitable and useless when placed inside a Slurpee….
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Studio Gothic
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
498T
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan ‘59n
Artists using this pickup:
Whatever
You musical style(s):
Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Gibson pickups werent bad at all, but I’ve heard the Seymour Duncan SH-6 (Distortion) sounds awesome in mahagony guitars.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker, Ceramic Magnet
Impedence or other specs:
Hot
Perceived output level:
Hot, drives tube amps well
Tone:
This pickup is completely balanced in my Les Paul or any Mahagony-Bodied guitar. Keep in mind if you put this in a guitar made of Alder or Poplar it might be too bright or even harsh sounding. This is the PERFECT match for any mahagony/korina or high quality basswood guitar. Quite simply i’ve played almost every pickup in the market, and trust me this is the best tone i’ve EVER heard for a metal pickup. Great for soloing or lead playing, great for heavy rhythm – handles lower tunings extremely well.. keeps it tight and toneful, NOT muddy.
Sonic evaluation:
Like I said i use this pickup in my Gibson USA Les Paul Studio Gothic, through either a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier or a Peavey 5150, with a Mesa 4×12 Cab with Celestion speakers. This pickup is 1000000000x better than any EMGs, PERIOD.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is perfect for ANY style of hard rock or metal. It works just as well for Black Sabbath as it does for Slipknot or Fear Factory or whatever. This pickup MUST BE PURCHASED NOW! It’s not so great for clean sounds, but thats what neck or middle pickups are for!
Model of guitar or bass:
Les paul custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
seymour duncan jb
Other pickups on guitar:
stock gibson
Artists using this pickup:
barry manilow, yanni, john tesh and olivia newton john
You musical style(s):
Heavy, atmospheric, manic, or anything by n’sync
Reason for pickup change:
The jb sounded to shrill and trebley.
Pickup features:
humbucking, passive
Impedence or other specs:
uh huh huh huh
Perceived output level:
High out-put, definitlely more so than stock pick ups.
Tone:
Extremely well rounded but gravitates towards the bass.
Sonic evaluation:
Les paul custom 79 silver burst into a mesa single rectifier with wah, delay, chorus and phase.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Perfect for that mariah carey crunch or the classic rock of the bee gees!
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha Pacifica
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour-Duncan Jazz (kickass)
Artists using this pickup:
Mackin Johnson
You musical style(s):
anything that rocks
Reason for pickup change:
The Yamaha plays like hell but sounds like ass. So I thought about a PRS but they cost way too much. So I changed the pickups.
Pickup features:
High out put and clear Humbuckers
Impedence or other specs:
16 ohms
Perceived output level:
Hotter than two rats humpin in a wool sock
Tone:
great lead treble but deep bassy also, it rocks.
Sonic evaluation:
Yamaha Pacific, a Zoom 3030 effects board, and a Fender Twin Tube(evil twin).
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
metal, rock, eveything, it matches anything you can play
Model of guitar or bass:
Epi G-310 (SG copy)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Thin ass Epi pickup.
Other pickups on guitar:
Decent sounding Epi neck pickup.
Artists using this pickup:
crappy bands and good bands.
You musical style(s):
Alternative, Rock, Hard Rock, Punk, Grunge (metal sucks ass)
Reason for pickup change:
Bridge Epiphone pickups are Thin ass!!!
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
16.6k i think. Around 360-450 output.
Perceived output level:
Hot, but I could still get a cool clean sound.
Tone:
Bassy, kinda balanced, but more toward the bass end.
Sonic evaluation:
I’ve palyed a few years, this was my first guitar, I figured I needed another stage presentable guitar, my Gibson LP Studio Lite alone, didn’t cut it. I use a Marshall Valvstate 102R. You can get a good sound out of that if oyu set it right.
This pickup is quite good, but I found when changing guitars I had to boost my mids a little to get the same kinda sound.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Almost anything gainy.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson SG Special
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Gibson Tony Iommi Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock 490 R Gibson Humbucker
Artists using this pickup:
You name it. Go to their site and you’ll see
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock, Heavy Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Tony Iommi was good, but didn’t have that over-the-top palm mute type of distortion.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Not Sure
Perceived output level:
Hot
Tone:
Well balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Using it with a Tech 21 Trademark 120 combo amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Perfect for Hard Rock and sounds great in Drop-D tuning. I think this pickup would be good for almost any type of music because it is not harsh
Model of guitar or bass:
Electra (SLM) 30th Anniversary Model
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Neck-stock
Artists using this pickup:
dunno
You musical style(s):
Hard Rock and some Classic Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Looking for a new sound and thought this would help
Pickup features:
Passive HB
Impedence or other specs:
See their web site
Perceived output level:
This thing has great output….what a difference from the original pickup!!!
Tone:
Sounds kind of high, I find that i adjust the guitar tone down about half way as opposed to the full up of the stock PU
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a Roland Jazz Chorus 77 Amp with a DOD Metal Pedal and an ART multiverb III Processor
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Creed, Metallica, Ozzy, Santana
Model of guitar or bass:
98′ Epiphone Gibson Les Pual
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Covered stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Another covered stock in the neck.
Artists using this pickup:
Wayne Static – Static x, Max Cavelara – Soulfly
You musical style(s):
Metal, Hard rock, Blues, Classical, Jazz, Punk, etc.
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pickups sounded good but when playing with higher gain at high volumes they had too much feedback.
Pickup features:
Humbucking Passive
Impedence or other specs:
16.6K
Perceived output level:
It’s 10 times better than my last pickup. Less noise and better sound
Tone:
A lot of crunch. Great clean sound too. Perfectly balanced for my musical style.
Sonic evaluation:
I run my guitar into a ADA MP-2 preamp. Then, from the preamp it goes into a Marshall JCM900 SL-X 50-watt head. Finally ending up in a Marshall 1960A 4×12 cab. It’s the perfect sound for me. It’s great for distortion and clean. I was surprised at how clean it was. I was expecting it to be muddy or be too noisy and I was totally wrong. Perfect!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Mostly I play metal and hard rock.Things with crunchy palm mutes and fast soloing. Perfect match. I can’t stress the perfect part enough.It might be suitable for the neck. I don’t know since I haven’t tried it in the neck. When I change the neck pickup I’ll put in a Alnico II Pro.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG-120
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Shitty, muddy, Ibanez powersound.
Other pickups on guitar:
Ibanez powersound (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
Wayne Static-Static-X, Meegs Rascon-Coal Chamber, Jerry Horton-Papa Roach
You musical style(s):
Metal, Nu-metal, Alternative, Punk.
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted to change my bridge pickup because Ibanez powersounds’
are muddy, and just dont sound that good. I needed more output,
a better sound when distorted, and a stronger palm-muted thud.
Pickup features:
Humbucking, passive.
Impedence or other specs:
check the seymour duncan site.
Perceived output level:
Output is hot, not like “active” hot.
Tone:
tone is decent, lots of high end and mids, a little less low-end.
Sonic evaluation:
Okay, I put this pickup in my guitar hoping to sound like Wayne Static or Meegs Rascon (since they use it). I was looking for a real strong, high output that would be killer when distorted. I wanted extreme low-end chunk so my palm-mute’s would sound more aggressive, with more
thud and attack. But as soon as I started playing with this pickup, I started thinking-no way, this aint my sound. I swear this pickup sound s no different than the Ibanez Powersound pickups. There was very little low-end, so my bottom strings did not sound “full” enough. I sounded chunkier with my powersound’s. There was quite a bit of high-end and midrange, so this makes the higher strings sound pretty good. One thing that this pickup is worthy of is clarity. It does not muddy up over lots of dist. That is what makes this pickup better for clean tones. I wasnt thrilled at all by its distortion sound. But the lack of low-end really pisses me off. How can Wayne Static, Meegs Rascon, and Jerry Horton sound so heavy with a pickup like this? I just dont get it.
I run my guitar through a Digitech RP-200, and an EQ Pedal, then straight into a Marshall JCM-800 half-stack. And I just cant get a decent metal sound out of it. I think this pickup is best for punk, most clean sounds, maybe some blues, and its good for soloing because of the clarity and high-end.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I wanted REAL Metal, it didnt give me it. Like I said, good for punk, clean tones, blues, and soloing.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez GRX-20Z
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Pickup
Artists using this pickup:
ME!!!!
You musical style(s):
Punk, Blink 182 and Grunge
Reason for pickup change:
Powersound pickups suck
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
I dont know it sounds great thought haha
Tone:
pretty well balance not muddy great pickup
Sonic evaluation:
im using an Ibanez GRX-20Z to Roland G405 amp and i was looking for more distortion and stronger palm mutes I GOT THEM if you like punk or just mute alot get this. The harmonics are really good also. And the clean channel is very very nice i love it!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great for punk may try an invader someday though but there is absolutely nothing wrong with this pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
Yamaha Pacifica 311MS
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Yamaha stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymore Duncan Tele Hot Rails style
Artists using this pickup:
Uh, don’t know, check the Duncan catalog
You musical style(s):
Rock, hard to classic
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Yamaha’s are weak, very thin sounding and not enough sustain for rhythm work. I also needed more punch, which this pickup provides in abundance.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
It is very loud, lots of punch, it rivals some active humbuckers I’ve heard
Tone:
A little bassy, but enough clarity to cut through for high trebly parts, just the right amount of mid-range sound for anything you throw at it.
Sonic evaluation:
My amp is my weakest link, it’s a Crate GX65, so in order to evualate them, I’ve been playing them through a Bose lifestyle stereo unit. They are awesome. Even just plugging them straight into the stereo with no effects yields their incredible range in both volume and tonal qualities. Lots of sustain, and even sound from the lowest frets to the highest.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play all sorts of rock and this is perfect. I’ve read lots of reviews saying this thing is too hot for the neck, but I disagree. I played a Jackson with two of these, one in the neck and one in the bridge and I was dissapointed at the sound quality out of the bridge pickup, definately recommend the neck position.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez S540Ltd
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Seymour Duncan ‘59 Model
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Hot Stack (Mid), Screamin’ Demon Trembucker
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know- i use it because it’s good, not because someone famous plays it (what a sorry reason to buy a pickup…).
You musical style(s):
Fusion/ Metal/ Rock
Reason for pickup change:
The ‘59 Model has that generic scooped tone, it’s not the tone i was looking for. The ‘59 also doesn’t sound good with the abovementioned Ibanez (but sounds superb in another!!). Further discrimination in ‘Overall Rating’.
Pickup features:
Passive humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Please refer to Duncan’s homepage for an accurate specification
Perceived output level:
High output + clear + pick sensitive. Harmonics easily attainable, not many neck humbuckers can achieve this.
Tone:
Treble inclined with enough bass to avoid a screechy, fried tone.
Sonic evaluation:
The Distortion humbucker is fitted in my Ibanez S540, plugged into my Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 401. I hook up the following pedals in series: tube screamer- Zoom510- chorus- EQ.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
My style varies accordingly, much depends on the mood I am in. I enjoy this humbucker’s tone when driven, for clean tones- i have my Fender. More scrutiny below…
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender ‘57 Reissue Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
DiMarzio Tone Zone
Other pickups on guitar:
None. Only a bridge humbucker.
Artists using this pickup:
Meegs Rascon (Coal Chamber) Wayne Static (Static-X) Max Cavalera (Soulfly/Seplultura)
You musical style(s):
Rock and Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more power. A kind of Metallica-esque sound and a good bassy tone.
Pickup features:
Humbucker, Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Don’t know.
Perceived output level:
Great. Not much different from Tone Zone, but has more power.
Tone:
Bassy and high. Hardly any mids. Great pickup.
Sonic evaluation:
I used a my Fender through a Crate GX-15 practice amp and then through a Marshall DSL 100 half stack at the local music shop. Sounded awesome.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I used it for metal. It was cool distorted, but cleaned up when on clean. Great match. I think it’s great for bridge or neck.
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson JS-20
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Seymour Duncan SH-8 Invader
Other pickups on guitar:
stock single coil – crap
Artists using this pickup:
J Yuenger among many others I would imagine
You musical style(s):
Speed metal, heavy metal,
Reason for pickup change:
Invader had a lot of Bottom end but no high end. needed more high end.
Pickup features:
Humbucking – passive
Impedence or other specs:
nobody really cares
Perceived output level:
output about the same as the Invader – loud!
Tone:
very balanced pickup, has lows but keeps the highs and doesn’t drown them out.
Sonic evaluation:
Jackson JS-20 into Crybaby GCB95 into Boss Metal Zone into Peavey Bandit 112.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play Megadeth, Sepultura (old school Sepultura), Pantera, Machine Head. It complements the music very well, very versatile pickup.
Model of guitar or bass:
My Home-Made Axe
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
So called bill lawrence XL500 sold by Stewart mc Downald
Other pickups on guitar:
So called bill lawrence XL500 sold by Stewart mc Downald ,neck position
Artists using this pickup:
??
You musical style(s):
depends of mood
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted a better definition of sound in distortion in a high out put pickup.BUT with a good clean sounds.
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
16.6k ,ceramic magnets.
Perceived output level:
he ,i ‘ve got it ,it ’s hot!
Tone:
Very well balanced to my taste Bass mids and highs are here like i like them .
Sonic evaluation:
I use it on my precious home made guitar plugged into a Hughes& Kettner TRIAMP.It’s a very versatile tube amp supposed to do everything(and it really does:).
The fact is that the distortions are now tremendous with this pickup
the clarity in chords is amazing.I feel this pick up makes me progress
in rythm playing . Lead playing is also enjoyable with the sh-6 .
I know this pickup is named Duncan DISTOTION but used with the TRIAMP gives a nice clean sound ,taped or not.And i’m quite demanding on this.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
depending of the mood again , jazzy stuff to trash beuark metal.I ‘m happy with this pick up.I use it on bridge position.I don t know for the other.But the guy who sold this to me, told me he uses it as a neck pickup and seemed to be happy with this.
Model of guitar or bass:
Gibson Les Paul Standard
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Dunca ‘59 Classic
Artists using this pickup:
me
You musical style(s):
rock; hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock Gibson Les Paul pickups sound like you are playing uder water.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
choda
Perceived output level:
i have to pee.
Tone:
trebly and kinda thin
Sonic evaluation:
Gibson Les Paul Standard through Fender Hot Rod Deville with a boss DS-1 Distortion peal and a Boss MT-2 Metal Zone pedal.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
it’s alright. i am going to be switching to a Dimarzio Steve’s special soon, i think.
Model of guitar or bass:
both a fender strat and jazzmaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
none
Artists using this pickup:
I dont know
You musical style(s):
punk
Reason for pickup change:
I needed a sound for my self so i wouldnt just be another guitar player, I wanted to be a “guitarist”. I believe I have obtained that title now.
Pickup features:
humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
i have no clue
Perceived output level:
fat and bright. it has a great sound clean and dirty. all guitars would be better off if they came prestocked with the SH6
Tone:
perfect balance
Sonic evaluation:
I am using these in both a fender strat and jazzmaster (in the neck on both guitars). I run them trough a marshall vs100, 87′ fender 4×10 cab, and an art digital effects unit (for the flange) in use at all times. If you liked blink 182s album “Enema of the State” at least the guitar sound then you would love my sound. I know he uses an “invader” but that is only for his live sound, I think this setup I am using is the most accurate sound to that album any one can create live.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
punk: the Descendents, Propagandhi, and Blink 182
Model of guitar or bass:
charvel model 1 or 2
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
ive heard rhoads, old lynch
You musical style(s):
hard rock, metal
Reason for pickup change:
wanted to try new one
Pickup features:
humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
very hot!
Tone:
great rythym sound, nice!!!!! great lead tone! a bit trebly but great!
Sonic evaluation:
i am using a few amps. i have a marshall jcm800, and a jubilee, and a laney aor100. this pickup is just hot enough to get the jcm 800 clipping a bit more. it sounds great with the jubilee. great toney chunk, and great leads. this pickup is the best metal pickup ive heard. i ripped the emg81 out after the first day i had it in, took it right back to mars, and scored this one. i am totally sold with duncans, and ive played dimarzios….all of them. duncans have tone.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
good match for heavier styles, no good for country or jazz
Model of guitar or bass:
1998 EPIPHONE LES PAUL STANDARD
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
STOCK EPIPHONE
Other pickups on guitar:
SEE ABOVE
Artists using this pickup:
MYSELF
You musical style(s):
CHRISTIAN ROCK/METAL
Reason for pickup change:
TO STOP COMMITTING NOISE POLUTION WITH UNWANTED, UNEEDED FEEDBACK GENERATED BY THE SUBSTANDARD EPIPHONE STOCK HUMBUCKER
Pickup features:
PASSIVE HUMBUCKING BRIDGE POSITION
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
HIGH, SMOOTH OUTPUT WITH MUCH APPRECIATED CLARITY AND NO FEEDBACK EVEN AT 10
Tone:
PEFECTLY BALANCED FOR HARD ROCK/METAL
Sonic evaluation:
VARIOUS GUITARS(KRAMER, IBANEZ, JACKSON, GODIN, EPIPHONE)PLUGGED INTO A DIGITECH RP2000 STRAIGHT INTO A MARSHALL 80GRCD COMBO PLUGGED INTO A 4/12 CAB FOR PEFROMING AND PRACTICE
KRAMER BARETTA INTO A POD V2 INTO A TASCAM 788 FOR RECORDING
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I WRITE, PERFORM, AND RECORD CHRISTIAN ROCK/METAL TO HELP SPREAD THE WORD OF GOD TO PEOPLE WHO, OTHERWISE, MIGHT NEVER GET THE CHANCE TO LISTEN-ALSO BECAUSE THERE ARE NOT THAT MANY CHRISTIAN ROCK/METAL ACTS OUT THERE.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Red Fender Lace Sensor
Other pickups on guitar:
Blue Fender Lace Sensor and Silver Fender Lace Sensor
Artists using this pickup:
Me, and every one else that wrote a review for this pickup
You musical style(s):
Early to mid 90s grunge, the Who, Jimi Hendrix
Reason for pickup change:
the Red FLS was not thick enough for my taste, to tell you the truth it sounded almost like the stock pickup that was there before.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Ummmm…….
Perceived output level:
on a scale from 1 to 10, 1 being stock, and 10 being active EMG i’ll give it an 8.
Tone:
it’s a really good balance between treble and bass, really well balanced.
Sonic evaluation:
well my setup consist of an Fender Princeton Chorus amp, a EH Big Muff Pi, a Vox Wah, and this unknown chorus pedal i use. the pickup sounds great with my setup
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
well this pick up suits my style perfect, i don’t suggest this pickup for bluesman.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Fat Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock bridge humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender texas specials
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Grunge, Punk
Reason for pickup change:
I mainly play Nirvana so I wanted and needed something heavier that would boost my sound.
Pickup features:
High Output Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
N/A
Perceived output level:
20 times better than it was before
Tone:
Bassy
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Fat Strat>Boss Ds-1 Distortion>Electro Harmonix Small Clone Chorus>Mesa/Boogie Studio Pre-amp>Crest 4801 Power Amp>2 4X12 Marshall Cabs
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
N/A
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez AX-70
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Ibanez “powersound”
Other pickups on guitar:
Gibson ‘57 Classic PAF
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Blues, rock, modern
Reason for pickup change:
Ibanez pickups suck
Pickup features:
passive humbucking pickup
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
High output, very hot
Tone:
Trebly, lots of bass
Sonic evaluation:
Using guitar w/ Gibson ‘57 classic and this sh-6 pickup. Great sound with my Marshall VS-65R. I can get a perfect AC/DC sound. This pickup is very hot but its also clear. For the most part, you can hear all the individual notes. Not so good for blues, better for hard rock.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
AC/DC, Van Halen, Led Zeppelin, ROCK! Easy to get a good sound.
Model of guitar or bass:
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
h’bucker
Impedence or other specs:
my balls itch
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Sonic evaluation:
I just LOVE how some of these dickheads put a review in here and say shit like “Oh it definetely does’nt have enough bottom end for metal and sounds like shit, etc, but i’m using a fuckin joe-blow fuckin crappy $125 guitar, and a suck-ass Peavey no name fucking garbage amp with DOD sucky fuck turd effects.”
QUIT TRYING TO SOUND LIKE A FUCKING MUSICIAN DIPSHIT
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Kramer American Stagemaster Neck thru custom
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
JB
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan SA’s I think they are called.. Single Coils by Duncan that came with the guitar
Artists using this pickup:
Don’t know, don’t care..hehe
You musical style(s):
Rock, is there anything else?
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more power and more definition…
Pickup features:
Hum passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Very very hot..
Tone:
Very good.. A little trebly, but not harsh.. Lacks mids it seems to me, but very balnaced overall..
Sonic evaluation:
I am using the Kramer and a marshall vs80 pre amp has a tube and digital post amp.. Valvestate.. Can’t remember the exact model, but it’s very good thru this amp.. This pickup is very very hot..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It is a bridge pickup I think, but I think it would work well with alder body strat guitars in the neck !
Model of guitar or bass:
94′ Custom Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
texas special single coil
Other pickups on guitar:
tesas specials
Artists using this pickup:
alot
You musical style(s):
jazz,rock
Reason for pickup change:
Needed a bit more edge, texas special bridge pickup is bright without a reason this pickup was supposed to be punchy, but anyways the distortion was bright with reason and worked well in everything.
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
no clue
Perceived output level:
to-die-for
Tone:
balanced, bright, edgy
Sonic evaluation:
strat-tube screamer-ac2-dd1-pandora-line 6 ax2.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Great match, for rock, blending with the middle texas special produced a rather sweet tone, once you use the tbx and back off on the tone knob a little
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez GRX45
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
p.o.s ibanez powersound humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
p.o.s ibanez powersound single coils
Artists using this pickup:
alot of metal players…. i think george lynch used to use it befor he got his screamindemon pickup
You musical style(s):
metal,hard rock, a bit of blues,classic rock
Reason for pickup change:
i have nowhere near enough money to buy a new guitar, so i thought id upgrade the one i already have, boy was it a good desicion
Pickup features:
passive Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
how the hell would i know
Perceived output level:
its very hot pickup, with alot of treble and mids, and balanced lows, very chrunchy and loud as hell
Tone:
balance, plenty of treble and mids, and enough bass to keep it balanced
Sonic evaluation:
i have a shitty fender 15w frontman amp, but when i got the pickupinstalled i plugged into a marshall halfstack to try it out, it ripped, tons of distortion, very loud and hot, but isnt harsh at all, retains clarity, you can hear every note.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i like metal and hard rock, this suits it perfectly, and dont put this in the neck position, it is way to high output, it would sound terrible at the neck
Model of guitar or bass:
dean avalanche 7-string
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
none
You musical style(s):
kiss, megadeth, korn, bizkit, skid row, and other
Reason for pickup change:
wanted to upgrade from stock pickup
Pickup features:
humbucking passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
good high output, a little louder than the stock
Tone:
very balanced, clear which is good for a seven string, good response
Sonic evaluation:
i am using a dean avalache seven, with the tunamatic bridge and string thru the body. a peavey bandit, ibanez smashbox, a zoom player 2100 for eq and effects, dunlop crybaby. this pickup isn’t muddy like the stock which i thought sounded good until i put this bad boy in it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
great, good clean sound, great lead pickup, but then again seymour duncan is awesome
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Prodigy
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Two Stock Fender Single Coils
Artists using this pickup:
Does it really matter? But since you asked… Randy Rhoads, and I think Billy Gibbons used one for a while.
You musical style(s):
Classic Rock, Blues
Reason for pickup change:
To improve responsiveness, and increase output. Stock P/U sounded dead and muffled.
Pickup features:
Passive, Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
No Clue
Perceived output level:
Hotter than the stock ones, and more brightness to the sound. not as muddy
Tone:
In this guitar it has lots of bass with a nice balance across the spectrum.
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Carvin 50 watt tube combo. It has 3 12AX7 tubes for the preamp and two EL34 tubes for the power amp. This pumps a 5150 4×12 cab, and occasionally I will use the stock 12″ british series speaker. I also have a small 30 watt Marshall valvestate combo. No effects besides the spring reverb, just a Monster Cable Jazz cable.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Perfect match for what I like to play and listen to. Rush, Queen, van halen, led Zeppelin. I wouldnt recommend this P/U for the neck position, its output may be too high… but i’ve never tried it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Epiphone Les Paul
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Epiphone Stock Neck
Artists using this pickup:
??
You musical style(s):
Metal/Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup didn’t have enough character, wasn’t very present, too muffled.
Pickup features:
Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
??
Perceived output level:
Hot, but not so much that you can’t get a clean sound
Tone:
Good mids, very balanced, nice presence
Sonic evaluation:
Epi Les Paul -> cry baby wah -> digitech xp-100 -> Boss Ds-1 -> Boss DD-5 -> DOD ice box -> Marshall DSL 100 head and Marshall 1960 4×12 cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play metal, and this pickup is hot enough for it, I really like how clear it is. This is suitabale for the bridge, but I wouldn’t ever put it in the neck position.
Model of guitar or bass:
1981 Ibanez Destroyer II
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Ibanez
Other pickups on guitar:
Neck Humbucker(Ibanez)
Artists using this pickup:
Randy Rhoads, Early G.Lynch
You musical style(s):
Metal(DeathThrashClassicalDoomJazz)
Reason for pickup change:
Needed MORE OUTPUT in an otherwise Excellent Guitar.
Pickup features:
Humbucking/Passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
ALMOST Enough!?
Tone:
TOO BRIGHT, but Good GROWL, Overall:Too”BRASH”!?,”RUDE”!?
Sonic evaluation:
Using Randall 120watt Amp & MosValve500watt Stereo Power Amp as LOUD CLEAN Power Amps, and use Either a ZOOM 9050 Preamp/Processor,or ZOOM’s 8080 Floor Preamp/Processor For All My Distortion/Overdrive & Reverb&Effects.My Tone Can CHANGE from a Grinding MARCH,to a ChimingClean Octaved Downward,to a Ultimate SURF Guitar Fendery Tone, so I Know the Tone Rudeness of the Duncan Distortion Is Soley The Signature Stamp of its inherent Tone, not my Gear,Plus Ive Played Many Types of Guitars Through My Rig, and Had very Excellent Discoveries of a number of FAMOUS Pickups. In all It Really Does get a Dead On “Randy Rhoads” Tone Though, which is Excellent,and STILL Modern,YOU CAN Smooth this Pickup out to some degree with EQ’ing/Presence & Compression.Its NOT that the Distortion’s Ceramic Magnet is nesessiarily the “Culprit” either,(Ceramic vs Alnico) Case in Point: Duncans “HOT RAIL’s” Bridge Pickup Is Also a Ceramic Magnet Pickup, as Is Duncans “CUSTOM,SH-5″, and EACH of these Ceramic Magnet Pickups are Very Smooth And WARM(just enough).Whats Funny is EVEN Though The SH-5 Custom Is Supposedly “Weaker Output” Than SH-6 Distortion,It Has WAY MORE “PUNCH”,and way moe Vivid Tone,But Dont Tell Anyone “I” told you that TONE SECRET!! Can ANYONE SAY: “AKIRA RULES”!!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Metal(DeathThrashClassicalDoomJazz) IT Comes REAL Close to what Im’ after
Model of guitar or bass:
jackson KE-3
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock neck
Artists using this pickup:
uhhh…….me
You musical style(s):
hard rock / metal
Reason for pickup change:
the high notes sound really thin and trebly. maybe its my tremelo or the poplar wood. the distortion is good, but lead playing lacks feeling. it gets a good metallica and pantera sound, but the solos just suck. lead playing on my Am. strat w/ stock pickups sounds better
Pickup features:
passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
this pickup is very hot
Tone:
low strings are bassy and the high strings are very trebly which pisses me off. it’s hard getting a good balance between the two
Sonic evaluation:
Jackson KE-3 —> Crybaby 535Q —> Boss Metal Zone (everybody has one) —> fender princeton 112. The pickup isn’t that bad, but i want something that is more alive and has more sustain and better harmonics. The trebly high strings can sometimes get piercing high and sound weak. But this pickup is really good for rhythm and has a good distorted tone.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
hard rock / metal. good for my musical tastes, but needs more definition for shredding
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson DK2
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Duncan Design
Other pickups on guitar:
Middle-stock Duncan Design single coil, Bridge-Seymour Duncan Distortion.
Artists using this pickup:
Me, Jason and maybe some guitarist that makes alot of money?
You musical style(s):
Shred, 80’s metal, grunge, punk, rock, blues ( ? ) and most anything i can play using loud volume and lots of distortion.
Reason for pickup change:
I like single coils, but this was the last single coil in the store and I just wanted a decent replacement pickup so I can get a little more output. I can’t ever take anyones word for it so I had to try this one out. After reading the specs I found out that it was a stacked humbucker. I figured it would be interesting. I also read on here that Eric Johnson uses one. I like his sound and decided that this would be a great experiment. Besides, if it didn’t work out I could always put it in a Strat and add to 57 model pickups and have an EJ Strat.
Pickup features:
Single coil sized stacked humbucker with six staggered pole pieces. White cover. Passive. Four Conductor wiring. Splitable, series, humbucker or single optional wiring. Came with some screws and very detailed instructions in tech and laymans terms.
Impedence or other specs:
What i listed above. Impedance doesn’t matter to me. I just play guitar.
Perceived output level:
A little higher output than your usual single coil. Alot less than say a HOT RAILS.
Tone:
Very warm. Good for blues stuff. Great for clean stuff. Distorted it sounds smooth and even. Great sustain. Great overall performance. I am not unhappy with it and it’s staying where it’s at for now. I may drop it in a Strat one day. A good compromise of tones for anything rock, blues and metal.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using my Jackson DK2. I got lucky with this one as it has one of the best necks I have ever used. The JT580LP bridge is better than most origional Floyds I had or used and stays in tune great. I am basically using this guitar as a project guitar. I plan to put a nice straight single coil in the middle soon to balance things out. I am using a CRATE GX212, DOD EQ, DOD Delay, BOSS Metal Zone and Morely Wah. I love my setup and can’t seem to find anything better for me. This pickup shines through in this setup very well. I’m not a big tube amp fan so I couldn’t say what it would sound like through a Marshall JCM800 ful stack. I don’t really want to know.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I bought this guitar for it’s versatility so I went in search for pickups that would enhance the versatility. I got what I was looking for in a great neck single coil. I’m not into humbuckers in the neck due to their muddy sound. At least that is how I hear them. The book says this pickup can be used in all positions. I think it would make a great, warm bridge pickup. I thought about using it in the bridge position in one of my other guitars, but it would look kinda funny sitting in a humbucker pickup ring. I may try it anyway. I can go from Cheap Trick to System of a Down. This pickup helps me out alot.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RG270DX Hum-Sing-Hum configuration
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Powersound
Other pickups on guitar:
Bridge- DiMarzio Evolution Neck- Dimarzio Evolution (Neck Model)
Artists using this pickup:
From Dimarzio website- Eric Johnson, not sure who else?
You musical style(s):
Progressive Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The stock Ibanez Powersound pickups were just horrible. First I changed out the humbuckers, next came the middle single coil. I came up this combination with advice from one of the tech’s at Dimarzio.
Pickup features:
Stacked Humbucker or single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
This is a stacked humbucker but I wired it for single coil use only. Balances well with the “UltraHot” Evo’s.
Tone:
I like said this pick up designed as a humbucker to fit in a single coil slot but at the advice of Dimarzio, I installed it to run as only a single coil. GREAT single coil sound!!! Much like you’d hear from a great vintage Fender. I think clean Strat when I hear it. Nice ‘pop’ and ’snap’ and big lucious chords. Very thick when combined with the humbuckers in the 2nd and 4th positions with, of course, higher output. Just beautiful and so fun to play and hear!!!
Sonic evaluation:
I absolutely love the sound this pickup delivers!!! I couldn’t be more happier with a pickup. I will never change out this model. I play through a decent Peavey Renown 2×12 solid state amp from the 80’s. It provides a very nice clean sound with lots of headroom. The distortion channel is just ugly, I never use it. I just stick a Boss Distortion pedal with a Boss EQ behind it and I sounds good.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mostly progressive metal such as Dream Theater, Spock’s Beard, Kings X, Planet X, along that vibe. Also instumental from Steve Vai to Joe Satriani. Just about everything guitar based rock has to offer. This pickup handles the clean to slightly distorted areas exactly how I want it to!!!
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender stadard strat
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Default
Other pickups on guitar:
Cool RAil Neck – Hotrail Bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Stupid Question
You musical style(s):
Metal / Rock
Reason for pickup change:
Was bored..Experimenting
Pickup features:
Single Coil HumBucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Tone:
Hard to describe..
Sonic evaluation:
Sounds like a good pickup..This should be a standard pickup that should come with most guitars..Its better than the regular fender I had in there..I get good harmonics on it..The low strings could have some more brightness to them but overall I happy with it in the middle position..This pick up should be used in the Neck or middle IMO..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Stew-Mac 7/8 Strat body w/ maple neck, rosewood fretboard, and ash body
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
(n/a newly built custom)
Other pickups on guitar:
SD hot rails (bridge), SD lil ‘59 (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
EJ, apparently
You musical style(s):
Rock.
Reason for pickup change:
Looking for single coil sound w/o the hum.
Pickup features:
Stacked humbucker, single coil size
Impedence or other specs:
about 14K as I recall; see DiMarzio’s website
Perceived output level:
A bit less than the lil ‘59, a lot less than the hotrails. Should be hotter than most single coils, and may be louder than a non-hot humbucker.
Tone:
Well balanced, crisp. Sounds like a single coil.
Sonic evaluation:
Used this a couple ways. Going direct into the Marshall solid state, it gives good clean sound, and an OK distorted sound (remember, it’s being compared to high-output humbuckers). Going into an effects unit (RP-10 or VGS 2120), then into the Marshall’s effects loop return, I initially thought it was just like going through the amp’s preamp. But, I realized that there was something about this p/u’s high-end that worked well with the Digitech distortions. They are pretty crispy to start with, and with this p/u, the high end definition and brilliance really sparkled. I find myself switching to the HS-2 more and more because it has that nice high end. The down side is it does not have those cutting mids that the hot rails does (but, hey, it’s not a hot rails). An interesting sound is the position in between the hot rails bridge and the HS-2 middle. That position has the crispiest high end, and a little bit of balls at the low-mid area.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock. Rock rock rock. Then some funk and blues. Then back to the rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Japanese 1962 reissue Stratocaster (1996)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Standard/Seymour Duncan JB Junior
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Johnson
You musical style(s):
Rock etc
Reason for pickup change:
The stock pickup isn’t too good at rock tones but does have plent of life. I did replace it with a Jeff Beck Junior but it had no clarity.
Pickup features:
Stacked Humbucker (sungle coil sized)
Impedence or other specs:
15k Ohm
Perceived output level:
A bit higher out than standard.
Tone:
Balanced, slightly bassy
Sonic evaluation:
I have a ‘62 Jap Strat and old Park Lead 50 valve combo. It’s got plenty of life and character – like a single coil but without the hum and a flatter response. The output is a bit higher than the stock but needs hiking right up to produce a lot of power.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock and rockabilly/country
Model of guitar or bass:
Fernandes ‘57 Strat
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Johnson
You musical style(s):
Blues, classic, progressive, and acoustic rock
Reason for pickup change:
Exploring new sonic territories
Pickup features:
Passive single coil size stacked humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
www.dimarzio.com
Perceived output level:
Medium output, hotter and warmer than stock strat single coils
Tone:
humbucking mode: warm and balanced on the bassy side; single coil mode: bright and middy, nice vintage vibe
Sonic evaluation:
I’m a minimalist when it comes to amps and effects. I mainly play thru a Marshall combo w/ stock distortion pedal switch or a Line 6 AX/2. With the right settings on the amps, I am able to get some beefy Texas Blues tones as well as the Eric Johnson ‘Violin tone’ in neck position.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
6 awsome pole pieces great for blues and rock, not hot enough for metal; definitely no go for the trendy corn biscuit 182 7-string crap.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Johnson
You musical style(s):
Anything
Reason for pickup change:
I heard that E.J. was using one so I decided that I should try one out. Besides the bridge pickup was a little to bright
Pickup features:
Passive Hum canceling single coil size
Impedence or other specs:
???
Perceived output level:
Not real hot but not real cool. Just right in the middle.
Tone:
Well balanced with a bit more glass than anything.
Sonic evaluation:
I used the Strat and plugged it into a Peavey Special 2X12. The pickup has a coil tap switch to move from humbucking to single coil.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Definately a good bridge pickup. Good for anything. Great for Blues and Rock.
Model of guitar or bass:
tele partocaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
duncan pearly gates
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
blues , rock, jazz
Reason for pickup change:
Pickup features:
stacked humbucker (single coil size)
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
slightly higher than vintage
Tone:
balanced
Sonic evaluation:
tele partocaster, hot rod deluxe amp. sounds full and rich , but still strat like , very nice
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
blues, rock, jazz, great match, neck
Model of guitar or bass:
54 reissue fender strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
fender custom 50’s
Other pickups on guitar:
fender custom 50’s
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Johnson ( The MASTER)
You musical style(s):
rock, blues, jazz, country, classical
Reason for pickup change:
stock bridge pickup sounded too thin, trebly, and didn’t have enough volume to match the neck and middle pickups
Pickup features:
stacked humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
see dimarzio catalog
Perceived output level:
slightly more beefed up than a standard single-coil, but not much
Tone:
much more balanced, flat sounding EQ than most single-coils
Sonic evaluation:
I use the Fender ‘54 reissue through a Fender amp for my clean rig and a marshall w/ a fuzz face for my distortion rig. I tried to mimic EJ’s “violin tone”, but it didn’t quite deliver. I’ll probably try a Dimarzio Virtual Vintage pickup with a little more output to it next.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It would be an awesome middle position pickup if you have a guitar with a standard humbucker in the bridge position.
Model of guitar or bass:
1992 American Standard Stratocaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock American Standard single coil
Other pickups on guitar:
stock (middle), HS3 (bridge)
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Johnson
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:
Original ones were a bit too trebly and noisy
Pickup features:
Stacked Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
How would I know??!!
Perceived output level:
A bit louder than the stock pickup
Tone:
Bassy, dark tone, not as bright when compared with an actual single coil
Sonic evaluation:
I plug my strat through a TS-9 into a Blues Junior. The tone of this pickup is dark to start with. It’s just a bit louder than a single coil. However, it’s much more silent than a single coil when you dial in more gain. But it just doesn’t sound like a real single coil to me. It’s not as jangly as the real thing.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play mainly Blues. I think that this pickup would be suitable for all positions.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Mexican Strat
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Fender stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour Duncan Classic Stack (middle), DiMarzio HS-3 (Bridge)
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Johnson
You musical style(s):
Soul, funk, rock
Reason for pickup change:
The original Fender pickups were very noisy. I wanted to
maintain single-coil look and sound and get rid of the hum.
Pickup features:
Strat replacement vertical humbucker, passive
Impedence or other specs:
DC resistance 15 K
Perceived output level:
normal, a bit more than the original shitty Fender single-coils
Tone:
balanced single coil tone, a bit more middle than the original pickup.
Sonic evaluation:
Classic single-coil neck pickup sound without any hum. Balanced clean
sound. Distorted sound gets a bit muddy when driven fully.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Unsuitable: Metal . Might work well in other positions, too (DiMarzio claims so anyway)
Model of guitar or bass:
1988 Am. Std. Fender Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
All HS-3’s, installed one at a time for comparison with stock units.
Artists using this pickup:
Eric Jonson (in single-coil mode)
Your musical style(s):
Blues
Reason for pickup change:
Single-coil noise at high volumes; experimentation.
Pickup features:
Stacked Strat humbucker
Impedance or other specs:
Perceived output level:
About the same as a stock strat.
Tone:
Balanced; smooth and still glassy in the notch positions.
Sonic Evaluation:
I think the HS-2s do a good job as quiet strat replacements on this particular Strat. With a rosewood fingerboard, it’s fairly dark to start with, and turning up the TBX puts back most of the highs that the humbucking design loses. Great, meaty sounding pickups when clean; big wolfy tones when cranked. Eric Johnson in an old GP interview said he used one of these as a single-coil; I think putting one in the bridge and using a coil-splitting Omni-Pot would make a great, low-cost versatile mod.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Heavy metal.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Stratocaster (Warmoth) w/ Callaham vintage bridge, scalloped neck
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
N/A
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio HS-3
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen, Joe Stump, James Byrd
You musical style(s):
Rock, progressive rock, blues, jazz, metal
Reason for pickup change:
Always wanted to try these out based on my appreciation for Yngwie’s tone. My other Strat has humbuckers.
Pickup features:
Stacked single-coil passive.
Impedence or other specs:
93mV output
Perceived output level:
Lower output than stock Strat single-coils.
Tone:
Clear, well-balanced, bright without being tinny.
Sonic evaluation:
First off…my guitar: Warmoth rosewood/maple neck, 21 frets, 6100 fretwire, scalloped. Bone nut, vintage Kluson tuners, alder body with flame maple top. Callaham vintage 6-screw Strat bridge.
My signal chain:
Guitar-Boss CS-3 Compressor/Sustainer-Crybaby Wah-Tech21 Sansamp GT2…this goes to either a Behringer V-amp2 (if I’m playing through my PC), a Line 6 Spider II amp (if practicing at home), a PA system or a Roland JC-120 if I’m out at a gig.
In my opinion, these pickups are excellent in all positions for overdriven and high-gain tones, as well as shimmering clean tones. They are not as bright as stock Strat pickups, and the “in-between” positions don’t have the same degree of “quack”. This doesn’t mean they sound bad…in fact, I can get some AMAZING blues tones out of this guitar when I’m not ripping it up.
These pickups do not hide your playing…if you like the idea of a pickup that articulates the nuances of your picking style, with a smooth, balanced response and clean output…these are the pickups for you. Excellent for fast lead runs.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a mix of everything from 70s classic rock, 80’s metal, neoclassical shred, blues and jazz. These pickups are great for all of them – even super-high gain chunk (just use a compressor or booster prior to your amp). I suspect these pickups wouldn’t be great for country picking, but I wouldn’t know, since I don’t play country.
Model of guitar or bass:
YJM Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Fender
Other pickups on guitar:
YJM (neck) Stock Fender (middle)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie, Joe Stump, etc
You musical style(s):
Metal, Hard, Neoclassical and fusion
Reason for pickup change:
Single coil’s “Hum from hell” and searching for a “warmer” sound.
Pickup features:
Stack
Impedence or other specs:
-
Perceived output level:
Output level is low. Definally. Less or equal than a Fender single…
Tone:
Not so bassy, more treble.
Sonic evaluation:
Using a YJM strat in a VS-100 combo. Sounds a little poor, it can’t “make a party” alone, but using a cs-3 boss compressor this pickup make hot and freak sounds! And better: NO HUM AT ALL! Clean sound is not great, but not bad, just simple.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Indicated for fret burners. Use it on the neck or (most typical) in bridge
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Standard Mexican Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie… Myself
You musical style(s):
Classic Metal (Maiden, Priest, Dio, Iced Earth, Deep Purple, Rainbow and a bit of hendrix)
Reason for pickup change:
Stock was good for blues but not for metal, too thin sounding, plus the hum was killing me.
Pickup features:
Stacked Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
check the website
Perceived output level:
Low, about the same as stock
Tone:
Quite balanced
Sonic evaluation:
Using a Marshall VS100R half stack and a fender strat through a DOD Yngwie overdrive, Boss Flanger, and a Dunlop Crybaby.
The OD pedal and the Pickups go hand in hand. Sounds just like the maestro, cept without all the lightning fast harmonic minor runs. Put the gain at about 50%, and match the volume with the amp and the pickup comes alive. I get great Maideny sounds, Blackmore sounds, hell even Master of Puppets chugging and Hendrixy screeches. It holds its own well without the pedal, with the amps distortion, i get the single coil sound i love without the drawbacks. I love it. Not good for cleans though, but thats what the stock middle pickup is for
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Old School Metal… and it works great, you could put them in all positions, but i’m leaving the middle stock so i can play cleans.
Model of guitar or bass:
fender strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock texas shit special
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
yogi malmsteen, sorry he,s a cheeseball i call him yogi
You musical style(s):
malmsteen, becker, that sorta shit
Reason for pickup change:
texas specials are absolute crap, tyey broke up at louder volumes and would not stay clear and smooth
Pickup features:
humbucker passive
Impedence or other specs:
93 mv
Perceived output level:
about the same as a usual single coil
Tone:
balanced, rolls of bass, nice clear highs and just thick enough mids
Sonic evaluation:
i use the strat, into a yjm 308, 250 or dod juice box, best kept secret might i add! i got 2! if ya want one give us an email then run into the drive channel half distorted on my marshall jcm 900, it sounds just great!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
this pickup is good if youre using all valve stacks, solid state amps just seem too tinny, hence the reason for other idiot reviews that i,ve read
Model of guitar or bass:
2001 Standard Mexican Stratocaster (Black with maple fretboard)
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock neck pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Seymour-Duncan Cool-Rails on middle, Seymour-Duncan SSL-5L on bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
Anything that sounds good!
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted to tranform my guitar into a versatile ax. Stock neck pickup sounded to wooly and nasal. Bridge pickup was, in my opinion, awesome. Middle pickup was blah. Yngwie Malmsteen is my favorite guitar player so naturally I wanted to get this pickup. Sounds pretty good even though it’s NOT a hot pickup; in fact it’s a pretty subtle pickup in my opinion. BUT, it has a very beautiful clean tone in the neck position and it makes my Strat sound like a full-bred acoustic guitar ran through an MXR 6-Band EQ and a Marshall MG10DC with the mids scopped. So I really enjoy using this pickup for acoustic and classical works. Quite frankly I’m impressed with the natural and clean tone of this pickup.
Pickup features:
“Stacked Humbucker”
Impedence or other specs:
93mV output (pretty quiet)
Perceived output level:
Out level is low compared to other pickups such as Cool-Rails or Fas Tracks. Nice rhythm pickup though.
Tone:
Tone is beautifil clean. Best clean sound of any pickup I’ve ever heard. Distorted is pretty good too but low output level somewhat hinders it.
Sonic evaluation:
Like stated before I have this pickup on my maple fretboard strandard strat ran through like this as of 22 November 2003: guitar>Morley Little Alligator Volume>Boss CS-3>MXR 6-Band EQ>Ibanez Turbo Tube Screamer>DOD YJM 308>Boss MT-2>MXR Blue Box>EH Dr. Q>EH Worm>EH PolyChorus>Boss DD-5>Marshall MG10CD. I basically just use the HS-3 for rhythm (Tube Screamer and YJM 308) and clean guitar (6-Band EQ) playing. It’s rare when I use it with my lead and metal tones (MT-2). Sounds good when it has to!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Well I finger pick a lot because I’m a big fan of classical spanish/flamengo music. This pickup is perfect with my setup! For distorted tones it is ok but not the best. I’ve never tried it on the bridge postion but I’m pretty sure it has much more “ooomph” to it if it were on the bridge position. Just try it as see if you like it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster.
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Strat Pick-ups.
Other pickups on guitar:
A Stock Strat in the middle
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie J. Malmsteen, Steve Vai(YES,YES in the middle position of his Evolution equipped JEM) and many others.
You musical style(s):
Rock (severel styles)
Reason for pickup change:
As a big fan of Yngwie J. Malmsteen i wanted to create a guitar wich i could use to create some Yngwie sounds. I wanted a Strat like his except for the scalloping, so i made myself one.
Pickup features:
Stacked passive single coil with four conductor wiring.
Impedence or other specs:
Alnico V magnet, Output:93mV, DC Resistance:23.72K.
Perceived output level:
Not a hot output at all!!! Rather normal or vintage output. Like a standard stock Strat pick-up, not more output than that so be warned!! This is no high-gain pick up at all!!!
Tone:
Bassy tone with good mids, treble tends to roll off, warm tone,not glassy at all!
Sonic evaluation:
I have used this pick-ups in a lot of set-ups really and it performed nice in all of them.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play lots of different styles, but the Strat with the HS-3’s i am using just to play Yngwie songs or Rock. This pick-up is very suitable for that styles of course. Also good in all positions!
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender MIM Stratocaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Duncan Hot Rails in Bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie and his followers and the fools that don’t know about it yet.
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rock, Death Blues, more Blues and did I say Rock?
Reason for pickup change:
Duh, who likes stock el cheapo guitar pick-ups?
Pickup features:
Passive
Impedence or other specs:
It’s on the website
Perceived output level:
Medium-low compared with higher output pickups like the HotRails
Tone:
Flute-Harp like, chiming bell tone and clarity galore
Sonic evaluation:
Marshall 50/50, Mesa 20/20, cabs. MP-1 racks. Crate Vintage 30. The pick up is just spectacular with tube amps but hey, you already know this right? Marshall 72-73 mk II on 11 anyone??
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues, crunch in the neck which I highly suggest, don’t know as a bridge pu
Model of guitar or bass:
84 strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock fender
Other pickups on guitar:
fs 1 in middle position
Artists using this pickup:
Me and Yngwie
You musical style(s):
Everthing from Clacical to Nu Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Want Yngwavian Tones
Pickup features:
Stacked Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
23k
Perceived output level:
Not hot on the output, slightly above normal
Tone:
Bassy
Sonic evaluation:
This pick up rocks, Yngie tones can almost be yor, So can Jimi tones, very versatile, not great for Nu Metal though, but in a pinch will work. Great for intricate lead stuff
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Everything but Nu metal
Model of guitar or bass:
‘00 Standard Fender Stratocaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Fender Pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Virtual Vintage 2.1(middle) & Seymour Duncan Hotrail(bridge)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
Rock, Blues, Jazz, Heavy Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup was too noisy and I wanted to experience with different neck pickup
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
Stacked Single Coil
Perceived output level:
Output: 93mv(slightly more than stock pickup)
Tone:
Bassy and middy but not muddy. It remains clarity even with lots of distortion
Sonic evaluation:
I run my Fender Stratocaster through Marshall VS50 and Boss Metal Zone pedal
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I like to play many different styles of music. Dimarzio HS-3 doesn’t have enough output to be high power bridge pickup
Model of guitar or bass:
squier affinity strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
dimarzio blue velvet
Other pickups on guitar:
dimarzio blue velvet(middle) , custom rewound dimarzio dp119 (neck)
Artists using this pickup:
YJM?
You musical style(s):
blues , alternative rock
Reason for pickup change:
the blue velvet wat to glassy for the bridge , at least when matched with my custom wound neck , that is quite fat-sounding
Pickup features:
stacked humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Normal :quite low. Single coil mode : as hot as most moderately hot-rodded bridge pos. single coils
Tone:
balanced , not too bright but still very cutting and defined , expecially when overdriven or distorted
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using my squier strat thru a marshall jtm612 currently fitted with 12at7 preamp valves , wich are pretty bright soundingI use an ibanez compressor as a clean boost.With this setup , this pickup delivers a very aggressive sound , yet it is quite friendly : it responds well to almost any eq setting and any picking style . It hasn’t got a really attractive clean sound but I guess how many of you use a strat’s bridge for really clean stuff.Anyway , from slight crunch on it’s a beauty even if I gotta tell you that this is a quite modern-sounding pickup : it sort of combines an humbucker’s attitude for distortion and definition and single-coilish “in your face” feeling.Unfortunately it lacks that vintage “smoothness”.VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: PROPER WIRING IS FUNDMENTAL!Actually if u really want to get 100% out of this , u gotta use it in a single-coil configuration (remember that the “active” coil is the one beween black and red wires : put a switch that lets you bypass the green-to-white coil when u want)), otherwise it has lower output and lower dynamics , a bit like playing with volume set on “8″ and tone on”9″.Humbucking operation is only worth for recording.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good bridge pickup for those who can’t deal with a strat bridge but still love single coil sound above all , also good for recording in the humbucking conf.Lovely on a crunchy amp for crunchy stuff and also good for leads.Just not the one for accurate vintage fanatics or for people needing a monster clean tone aboive all
Model of guitar or bass:
20 somethin’ year old strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock vintage single coils.
Other pickups on guitar:
middle pickup is stock
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie but again, who gives a shit?
You musical style(s):
Metal, Blues, Sounthern Rock, and some other stuff mixed in
Reason for pickup change:
I was there shootin the shit, and I saw them sittin in the case. They were 35 for both of ‘em so I figured what the hell. I honestly don’t even use strats. I’m a Les Paul and Mockingbird guy. But the strat was dirt cheap for the age and condition so I bought it.I also wanted to see what the big deal about the pickups were.
Pickup features:
Single coil sized humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
who gives a shit?
Perceived output level:
not much, but with the amount of distortion I have I can still get great pinch harmonics with the bridge pu on
Tone:
I little bit of everything
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Marshall 1960 a cab, wich by the way kicks major ass, with a Peavey Triumph 120 (according to 4 different amp specialists I took it to, to find out more info, its the best amp Peavey ever built!), with a DOD grunge and a Dunlop cry baby. The bridge pickup isn’t bad with distortion, but clean its total mud, the neck just completly sux! My main axe is a les paul with an EMG 81 and a dimarzio super distortion. Now that set-up kicks ass!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This thing is good for maybe punk cause anything that sounds like shit is good for punk! because thats what punk is! If your lookin for a pu thats great soundin’ clean or distorted then get some EMGs.
Model of guitar or bass:
New American Standard Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Strat
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
Heavy Rock, Blues, Pop, Church Style, Some Metal
Reason for pickup change:
Single coil noise
Pickup features:
Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:
Don’t know
Perceived output level:
Weak
Tone:
Smooth balanced tone, highs rolled off
Sonic evaluation:
Mid 70’s 100wt Marshall Super Lead
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Suitable for just about any distortion sound, unsuitable clean sound!
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Mexican Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Fender
Other pickups on guitar:
YJM (Neck) , Stock Fender (Middle)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie J. Malmsteen and God
You musical style(s):
Diverse
Reason for pickup change:
Hated the single coil hum
Pickup features:
Stacked Single Coil Passive
Impedence or other specs:
93mV Output
Perceived output level:
Lower than the YJM pickup (neck). This is definately not a hot pickup that will overdrive ur amp. Its designed so that
Tone:
Ballsy but not Muddy. Lacks Treble.
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Mexican Strat > Boss MT-2 > GE-7 > Laney 80W Amp
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
If u own a strat, this is a MUST-HAVE.
Model of guitar or bass:
Carvin neck-thru custom Kelly, not built at Carvin
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Imposter Bill Lawrence from Stew Mac
Other pickups on guitar:
Evolution Bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen, nobody else really matters
You musical style(s):
Shred
Reason for pickup change:
The fake Lawrence really blows, it had no definition or dynamics. It was really muddy
Pickup features:
Stacked Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
23.72K
Perceived output level:
Very low, but this isn’t bad. It still balances with the hot EVO
Tone:
Bassy, yet very smooth. It is perfect for singing high gain
Sonic evaluation:
I am using an ADA Mp-1, 138 software(the best one, tone-wise). That goes into a difitech TSR-24 which I use for compression, EQ, CHorus, Delay, and Reverb. Then I go into a carvin Ht-400 power amp. My cabs are two carvin 2X12’s.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is the best one I’ve found for fast runs and sweep arpeggios. It is not suitable for someone looking for the typical sparkling strat tone.
Model of guitar or bass:
Cort (something similar to a Jaguar / Jazzmaster but with three SCs a l? Strat)
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Fernandes Single coils
Artists using this pickup:
The egotisic weirdo
You musical style(s):
Rock and Pop
Reason for pickup change:
Stocks were awful. Wanted a SC sounding PU but more robust.
Pickup features:
Truly a humbucking but sounds like a single coil and fits in a sc slot too
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Probably the quietest PUs ever. A very weird PU in deed -lots of DC resistance but little output – strange or what?!?
Tone:
Middy. Boring tone when played clean but lovely when overdriven (if using a good preamp).
Sonic evaluation:
Played clean sounds a little bit like a cheap Telecaster from the ’70s with a little more mids than usual, but distorted the PU screams in a wonderful way. It sounds to me like it wasn’t made for those Hank Marvin moments, yet if you have a SC equipped guitar and you want a PU similar to a distorted FRED but with a little bit of that SC bias this is for you.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock. More versatile than you may think but not for sparkling clean sounds.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender YJM Strat and various other Strats.
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
-
Other pickups on guitar:
DiMarzio YJM
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen, James Byrd [upto Crimes Of Virtuosity], Joe Stump, Me.
You musical style(s):
Neo-classical, blues, classic rock.
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickup.
Pickup features:
Stacked single-coil.
Impedence or other specs:
93mV output.
Perceived output level:
LOW, these are no where near as hot as stock Fender s/coils….lowest output p/up I know off!!
Tone:
Balanced, everything’s their in the right quantities.
Sonic evaluation:
Fender Strats into a Peavey 5150 2×12. First off this pickup is best used one way and it took me a while to realise this. If your amp is set to stun then this p/up will sound crap, but if you set it for a crunch and then use an overdrive box as a signal booster you will be rewarded with a superb TONE. This pickup can sing but not on its own. The OD box [pref a DOD250 or Boss SD-1]is needed but this is what all the pro’s who use this p/up do. The pickup sounds good in all positions and I use it in the bridge and neck, although they are the same output level they balance up very well. The DiMarzio YJM SUCKS in my opinion, it is passable in the neck [where it gives a flutey quality] but is LAME in the bridge position. The HS-3 is my baby and I now love this pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Neo-Classical. Classic Rock, Blues.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Am. Std. Strat.
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Bridge Single Coil
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Single Coils in Middle and Neck
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
Blues, Country, Rock
Reason for pickup change:
I’ve never really been a fan of stock Strat bridge single coil pickups.
Despite my numerous amp and guitar tweaks I could never find a happy medium. The reality slowly dawned on me that changing the pickups would be the only way of pacifying myself.
Pickup features:
Humbucking Single Coil – Passive
Impedence or other specs:
DC Resistance 23.72K – MV Output 93 – 4 conducter wiring.
Perceived output level:
Vintage
Tone:
Nice Bass and Treble response, the high midrange presence give this pickup punch, nice for soloing.
Sonic evaluation:
At the moment I am using a Peavey Classic 30. I have a small chain of stomp box effects that I use to colour the sound. I’m currently in the search for a decent cost effective multi effects unit for studio and live use.
The Strat has been modified slightly. A triple bleed capacitor has been added to the volume pot, and the middle tone control removed and a Torres Super Midrange pot added, 0-5 effectively cuts the boost, around zero or one yields and almost acoustic tone. 5 – 10 boosts the midrange, around 9 – 10 the treble bleeds away slightly, this accents the mid frequencies, thickening up the sound for solos.
The bottom TBX tone control handles the tone for all three pickups.
I notice that somebody who has already reviewed this model of pickup stated that the best way of describing the tone it produces as to think of it as a humbucking single coil, not a single coil humbucker. This is good advice.
With the bridge pickup on and the clean channel selected, this pickup displays a warm tone that lends itself nicely to arpeggiated chords. Clean with the mixed position selected, it combines reasonably well with the middle single coil. What I did notice was a loss of the ‘quack’ associated with true single coil designs when mixed.
Distorted, this pickups midrange gives it nice soloing voice – it has an almost Eric Johnson’esq tone. For rhythm, it’s fairly solid. It has a good punchy tone with a smooth decay. It handles most amounts of gain reasonably well. Harmonics of any nature are easy to attain, and it responds well to different kinds of pick attack, overall, it’s quite a fat sounding pickup.
Above all, it still sounds like a Strat pickup. There are some sonic nuances which do remind you that it is a humbucker, but these are relatively small.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It’s a good match for rock and blues applications, perhaps even jazz. For styles such as country, the amount of midrange may prove too much. It would be suitable for all positions.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Stratocaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Strat
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Strat, and DiMarzio Fasttrack 1 in bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
rock, blues, metal
Reason for pickup change:
not enough power, too noisy
Pickup features:
Passive Humcanceling Singlecoil
Impedence or other specs:
Yes
Perceived output level:
slightly less than stock, but allows for better tone
Tone:
balanced, warm, clean
Sonic evaluation:
Marshall JCM2000 DSL100, Monster Pro Cables, Big MUFF pi, Marshall 1960AV 4×12 cab loaded with celestion 30s.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Good all around.
Model of guitar or bass:
Jackson Performer PS2
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Jackson single coil
Other pickups on guitar:
middle: stock single coil, bridge: DiMarzio Steve’s Special
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie
You musical style(s):
Metal/Progressive metal
Reason for pickup change:
Just wasn’t satisfied with the single coil.
Pickup features:
Passive stacked humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
not very hot… I think it’s purposefully low output
Tone:
Pretty bassy, but not very muddy.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m currently using it through a Crate-GX 130C, and I play it mostly cleanly… it has a nice sound, though bassy. Actually when I play through it and the middle position pickup(stock single coil).. the single coil gives the sound a treble boost, so it sounds pretty nice. I also have played around with it when doing lead lines, and it holds pretty well, but I prefer the Steve’s Special.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play metal/progressive and it is a good match for me.
Model of guitar or bass:
1995 fender mexican stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
i replaced the neck and bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
yngwie malmsteem
You musical style(s):
rock,metal (megadeth,ozzy osbourne,pantera,alice in chains,van halen)
Reason for pickup change:
i wanted to get a better distortion with out the hum.i read that the reason yngwie uses hs-3s is that it has a low output and it gives you a clean distortion because since the pick output is low it wont distort the signal allowing the preamp or pedal to do it so you get a better tone. it kind of works the same way as speaker distortion. if you put your amp too high the speaker will distort itself which gives you a horrible sound. well when i first got the pickup i hated it because the output was too low and i couldn’t get a good distortion.i tried using amp distortion from my crate blue voodo and peavy bandit and they both sucked. i also tried my boos metal zone which was better but not really good. so i finnaly tried my digitech rp-5 and it sounded really good.the key is to have a really good preamp meaning you need lots of gain or distortion so the pickup works properly. i you are thinking about buying this pickup i suggest you get a effects proccesor board because if you don’t and you try to play metal or rock you will be dissappointed.
Pickup features:
single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
7 very low but it sounds great if used with a good preamp. the clean isn’t really that good so thats why i left the middle pickup stock.
Tone:
9 the tone dosen’t have much bass somewhat trebly and nice mids for great crunch
Sonic evaluation:
using a blue voodo 120 watt head. the cabnet is a carvin 4×12. the guitar is a 1995 fender mexican strat.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
not good for metallica but great for megadeth,randy rhoades and alice in chains
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez RX20 (yeah…make fun of it…)
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Texas Special neck (ugh!!!!), but first a PsoundS
Other pickups on guitar:
PsoundS, Psound1
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie….not in this position, though
You musical style(s):
Shred, and Melodic Death Metal
Reason for pickup change:
The PsoundS was weak…..and the Texas Special sucked….I’ve never ever heard a pickup that bad. Well, lemme rephrase…I didn’t match the pickup and guitar well.
Pickup features:
Humbucking stacked single coil. Passive
Impedence or other specs:
93mV output, 23.72K resistance
Perceived output level:
Nerarly the same as a Psound1 humbucker. Hotter than a strat single coil….about the same as Ibanez PsoundS
Tone:
Bassy, but *not* muddy. Super smooth, and perfect for shred. Very well balanced with both the guitar, and the humbucker.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a DigiTech 2101 Ltd, and this neck pickup loves it. No annoying hum, and very pristine boosted tone. wow. I go straight record from the Digitech Balanced out, so amps don’t come in the picture.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This pickup is very very well suited to all styles of playing. Since I play shred, I can say that it works for that and metal….but it sounds good clean too. So it’s not limited. I wouldn’t waste this pickup in the middle position, and it isn’t strong enough for me as a bridge humbucker (though it would work fine at the bridge).
Model of guitar or bass:
American standard strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
the original delta-tone system
Other pickups on guitar:
-
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie
You musical style(s):
jazzfusion mixed w/progressive heavy
Reason for pickup change:
the originals were too weak and thin…
Pickup features:
Single coil
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
warmer and more powerful than the original pickups.
Tone:
Bassy, not muddy, lot of mids, which suite for me
Sonic evaluation:
strat to an old 70’s Kustom and 4×12″ cabinet
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
This is a great pickup! it matches my style exellently, it’s loud but not distorted or muddy. All suites all positions!!
Model of guitar or bass:
Standard American strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
me
You musical style(s):
blues/pop rock/top 40
Reason for pickup change:
just didnt like the other one
Pickup features:
single coil–active
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
excellent
Tone:
hass great mids/bass at least f
Sonic evaluation:
im using the new dyna touch fender maplifiers–deluxe 90
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Model of guitar or bass:
Mongrel strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
none
Other pickups on guitar:
SD Alnico II Pro in neck; SD Custom Staggered in middle
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
Gospel, R&B, blues, contemporary Christian
Reason for pickup change:
Built a homemade strat and heard good things about it.
Pickup features:
Stacked humbucking single coil
Impedence or other specs:
dunno
Perceived output level:
Slightly hotter than stock Fender pickups, but not as loud as the Duncans in the middle and neck.
Tone:
Very transparent with lots of midrange. Weak bass response. Sounds a little too sharp in the bridge position.
Sonic evaluation:
Mongrel strat running to an old Orange Squeezer compressor, and MXR Phase 90, a Danelectro overdrive and DOD Chorus. Amp is a 40 watt Fender Blues Deluxe. I use Spectraflex cables.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Not a good match for what I do. I like a very open throated, glassy tone such as I get from the two other Seymour Duncans in the guitar. Not a good pickup for blues, jazz or clean rhythm playing. Would be best suited for modern rock, metal and fusion.
Model of guitar or bass:
ibanez radius (pre satriani model)
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
na
Other pickups on guitar:
dimarzio hs-2 and dimarzio tone zone
Artists using this pickup:
no idea
You musical style(s):
ive been told i have no style
Reason for pickup change:
na
Pickup features:
stacked humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
dimarzio.com
Perceived output level:
i guess you could say this pickup is warm, a REAL BEEFY single coil
Tone:
middy/muddy- back it off!
Sonic evaluation:
as mentioned i use the ibanez radius. i pump it through a boss me-30 and a crate 50 watt amp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i really dig satriani and the rest of the dimarzio gang, dimarzio makes great pickups (whatever duncan freaks think!) i would put this in any guitar that sounds anemic, best suited for neck position though.
Model of guitar or bass:
fender mexico
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
standart s.coil
Other pickups on guitar:
paf pro on neck fred on bridge
Artists using this pickup:
i heard that malmsteen uses this..but not so sure..
You musical style(s):
progressive rock ,rock ,blues,hard’n'heavy
Reason for pickup change:
why? beacuse there was no sound from those fender standart pickups.
Pickup features:
Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
normal
Tone:
has an balanced sound.. fat strat sound ..
Sonic evaluation:
i have a rp-20 and a power amp..connected to the speakers..
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
i read on the dimarzios web site that this suits all positon s on the guitar..but why i prefer this in the middle is that i dont want to lose my starts sound and tone..double humbuckered sytem would soundlike les paolu or ibanez js series..:))
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Stratocaster – Jimmie Vaughan Tex Mex
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Tex Mex pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Bill Lawrence L-250 (bridge), Tex Mex (middle)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie J. Malmsteen (well, he now also uses his YJM)…etc.
You musical style(s):
Heavy Metal
Reason for pickup change:
stock pickups were a bit weak. And i searched for a more
powerful tone with “character”
Pickup features:
passive single-coil sized Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
don’t know
Perceived output level:
a BIT more than tex mex stock pu’s, maybe like a low-output humbucker
Tone:
Nice strong, round bass, ok mids, but also enough treble / keeps the Strat neck sound character but…maybe boosts it a bit…and gives more bass
Sonic evaluation:
Guitar goes directly in my Boss GX-700 Fx processor and then to
my Marshall Valvestate combo
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I think this pickups is great for blues, rock, and Not-too-heavy Metal. Maybe not so good for mellow jazz or so
Model of guitar or bass:
Squier Stratocaster
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Squier Pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Fast Track 2 in bridge Squier stock in middle
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen (spelling)
You musical style(s):
Heavy Metal Grunge Punk blues Funk ALternative
Reason for pickup change:
The old Squier pickup wasn’t giving me the soloing power i needed, they just wernt fat enough
Pickup features:
Stacked humbucer
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
more than the old squier pup
Tone:
in the neck total bass. whn ever i am playing an acoustic song i swtich to this for the clean sound
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a Champion 110 amp and boss pedals. I use the DS-1 for punk, grunge, and some heavey metal (sabbath) and this pickup really made my solos come to life, and i can get everyhting i need. I slap on my Metal zone and swtich to this pickup and the Harvester of sorrow solo sounds just like it.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
for everything i play, it is perfect. i love it
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Telecaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock tele lead pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
stock neck rhythm pickup
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
new rock
Reason for pickup change:
old lead pickup too weak & trebly
Pickup features:
stacked humbucker (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
a tad more powerful than a typical single-coil.
Tone:
Quite balanced, though thin on the bass frequencies. Soft, clear, clean without hurting your ears, like the original tele lead.
Sonic evaluation:
Tested with Fender tele + Boss GT-5 preamp.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
“New rock”, glangst-rock. This enhanced my lead guitar sound a great deal. Very good for bridge.
Model of guitar or bass:
Squier Fat Strat
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio Super Distortion
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, Metal, anything I like.
Reason for pickup change:
The strat’s pickups sucked.
Pickup features:
Stacked Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
I dunno.
Perceived output level:
Tone:
It has a very smooth sound to it.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m running it through a Marshall Half-stack and it sounds great!
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play a lot of different styles, and this pickup works well on all of them. I don’t think it would sound right anywhere other than the neck.
Model of guitar or bass:
1997 & 1994 Fender Stratocasters
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
stock pickups.
Other pickups on guitar:
stock in middle.
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie J. Malmsteen & James Byrd
You musical style(s):
Neo-classical(Yngwie)/hard Rock(Scorps – Uli Roth era)
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups were too trebly bad for metal and made heavy industrial machinery seem quiet by comparason.
Pickup features:
Stacked humbucker (passive)
Impedence or other specs:
beats the fuck out of me.
Perceived output level:
Slightly quieter than the stock strat single coil.
Tone:
balanced but leaning towards low mids. Incredibly clear.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using these pickups regularly in all my strats as they really give me that warm silky distortion that I crave If they’re good enough for a virtuoso like Yngwie then they’re more than good enough for me.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These pickups suit my neoclassical style perfectly (Larry DiMarzio is God!). THis pickup is suitable in the neck (especially) and the bridge. I haven’t tried it in the mid position as I never use it.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Squier Stratocaster
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
stock (for the moment)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
blues, classic rock, hard rock
Reason for pickup change:
stock Squier pickups really sucked…. lotsa hum and screech and way too thin and jangly for my taste.
Pickup features:
stacked humbucker, passive
Impedence or other specs:
don’t recall atm
Perceived output level:
slightly hotter than stock…… almost the same to my ears though.
Tone:
I have a LOT of mids to play with now…. which makes me quite happy =-) Also there is more bass and less treble. Perfect for a bridge pickup, which tend to be bright and jangly anyways.
Sonic evaluation:
Right now I have a Pignose amp . And i also feed the guitar thru a Tech 21 XXL fuzzbox. At full volume and fuzz on, notes being played high up on the neck can sound a bit glitchy. But I know it’s the amp and tthat it can’t handle constant full on playing. I will be upgrading to either a Peavey Claassic 20 or 30, deepending on which i can get for a good deal first.
I’ve been looking for a pickup that had a middy, vocal quality when either striking a power chord or hitting a bent note and letting it decay. This pickup is right on the moneyy. =-) It may not be a pure Strat-tone type pickup, but that matters not. Those don’t have enuff mids, unlike this pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It would prolly wouldn’t be a good choice for the middle position…… which i don’t use much anyways…. except to take advantage of the 2 and 4 positions on the toggle switch. The in-between “quack”tones.
Model of guitar or bass:
Modified Mexican Standard Strat
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
HS-2 on middle and Fender Silver Lace Sencor on bridge
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie J. Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
Blues, Hard Rock, Pop, Alternative and of course Neo Classical
Reason for pickup change:
Well, Yngwie WAS my main man. When I was young I wanted to sound like him and emulate his playing(which is quite impossible). I installed it on the bridge initially. Then I added 2 new pickups and ‘moved’ the HS-3 to the neck. And it sounded great(on the neck)!
Pickup features:
Single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
dunno?!?!
Perceived output level:
Well, I turn the TBX tone all the way up just to get the high cut thru. In my opinion, I think the tone should be all up to get THE sound. The bass is round and smooth, mid is hear-able, and the treble is reasonable clean(glasy but not too bright).
Tone:
The tone is bassy and glassy. To get a clear glass, the TBX must be full…
Sonic evaluation:
I am using a modified Mexican Standard Strat… I changed everthing except the neck, body and machine heads… it looked like an American Standard Strat now… I m using Laney LC15 tube amp; it’s reliable.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I’m sort of in a transition of changing from Metal/Hard Rock to blues and rock. I guess it is a good match. But I need a pickup that captures what the strings vibrate/sound like. I need a pickup that emulate a condensor mike and throw everything(100%) back at you… I like a pickup that sound like the way I play without using an amp. I think the pickup is suitable on the neck better than elsewhere.
Model of guitar or bass:
1990 Fender American Standard Strat. w/rw fingerboard
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Stock pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
HS-2 (middle position)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie was the first…
You musical style(s):
Rock/Metal/Blues
Reason for pickup change:
I hate noise and was looking for a smooth, agressive tone.
Pickup features:
Stacked Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:
Look in your DiMarzio catalog!
Perceived output level:
Slightly hotter than stock single coil, but not hot enough.
Tone:
Balanced: This pickup has EXCELLENT tone but no balls.
Sonic evaluation:
Fender strat./Marshall JCM 900 (model 4100) 100 watt head through 4×12 A-cab.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Rock/Metal; not really a good match unless your name is Yngwie Malmsteen. You can always put a pedal in front of it for good crunch but that’s not going to help your clean tone any.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Mexican strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Fender stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Dimarzio HS-2 (neck), Seymour Duncan Classic Stack (middle)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie J. Malmsteen
You musical style(s):
Soul, funk, rock
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted a single-coil look and a single-coil sound with more
output and bass than the classic single-coils. And no hum.
Pickup features:
Strat replacement vertical humbucker, passive
Impedence or other specs:
DC resistance 24 K
Perceived output level:
more than averige single-coils
Tone:
balanced, fatter than averige single-coil.
Sonic evaluation:
Smooth single-coil sound with a little extra bass and less treble, so
it’s a good choice for a bridge pickup. This way you can get a
balanced sound in every position, so the lows won’t brake your (or
your neigbour’s) ears when you change from bridge to neck pickup.
Sweet driven tone, clean sound from a bridge pickup is never
very useful (well, that’s my opinion anyway)
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Unsuitable:Heavy metal, middle position. Best for bridge position.
Model of guitar or bass:
FENDER STRATOCASTER
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
CUSTOM SHOP VINTAGE RE-ISSUE
Other pickups on guitar:
CUSTOM SHOP VINTAGE RE-ISSUES (STAGGERED POLE PIECES)
Artists using this pickup:
YNGWIE(?);HANK MARVIN
You musical style(s):
ROCK,SOUL,BLUES.
Reason for pickup change:
WANTED MORE BODY FOR DISTORTED SOUNDS- MORE POWER; BUT DID NOT WANT TO CHANGE LOOK OF THE GUITAR.
Pickup features:
STACKED HUMBUCKER
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
DEFINITELY MORE OUTPUT THAN THE REPLACED PICKUP, MAYBE 30% LOUDER.
Tone:
MORE MIDS AND LESS HIGHS THAN ORIGINAL PICKUP.
Sonic evaluation:
EXCELLANT FOR A POWERFUL DISTORTED SOUND WITHOUT MUDDINESS. NOT AS GOOD FOR CLEAN SOUNDS – LESS JANGLETONE.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
SUITABLE FOR BRIDGE POSITION FOR ROCK OR BLUES – BUT HANK B.GETS BY USING ONE TOO.
Model of guitar or bass:
Guitar, Ibanez RG560 ( looks like the Steve Vai 6 string models)
Position:
Tried in all
Pickup being replaced:
Ibanez original single coil / humbucker
Other pickups on guitar:
DiMarzio PafPro (Neck) Dimarzio Tonezone(Bridge)
Artists using this pickup:
Yngwie Malmsteen
Your musical style(s):
Mostly Metal, R&B
Reason for pickup change:
Because the originals (single coils) hummed and squealed alot when played at high volumes
and with distortion, and they were too bright for me.
Pickup features:
4 wires, single-coil look-alike humbucker
Impedance or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Less than the originals, way quieter than a PafPro.
Tone:
The tone was wery warm, not too much higs, but not so much bass either. A middle sounding(?) pickup.
Not muddy at all, very clear.
Sonic evaluation:
Distorted:
The pickup sounded best at neck position, but it was too dark for middle position, and useless
in bridge. No squeals and no hum at all, didn’t srcream at all even at high volumes &
full distortion.
Clean:
Again no hum at all. Liked it best at the neck position.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Bridge position.
Model of guitar or bass:
GUITAR
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
LACE SENSOR
Other pickups on guitar:
SSL-1 MIDDLE, CUSTOM CUSTOM HB BRIDGE
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
ROCK ,BLUES
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted more vintage sound than the lace, and the vintage look.
Pickup features:
SINGLE COIL
Impedence or other specs:
6.5 K
Perceived output level:
typical vintage output – medium for a single coil. Hotter than the 57/62, about like a Texas Special.
Tone:
Balanced tone with plenty of quack. Has more balls than the Fender 57/62, so I would recommend this duncan for jazz and blues, and the Fender 57/62 for someone looking for that 70’s clapton sound. It is a pickup that you should try before you spend more money.
Sonic evaluation:
Sounds great through marshall jtm 312 and fender princeton with pedals. THis pickup has better string separation than any SC I have played. It is as good as anything Fender makes and is comparable to the Fralin’s. It does a good SRV tone also.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Everything but nu-metal. This pickup is not meant for super high gain metal. It will work for all other styles.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez GRX-40
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Ibanez neck pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
stock single coil (middle) and a Ibanez (powersound?) Humbucker bridge
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
I mostly play songs by the Rolling Stones, but also some light punk and metal
Reason for pickup change:
The Ibanez pickup sounded weak, and especially muddy. not good for a rythem pickup, no definition in the tone!
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
dunno… I hear its around 6.2?
Perceived output level:
Louder than stock, even when farther down from the strings than I had the stock pickup. I used to rely on the bridge humbucker for that louder sound but the SSL-1 is about the same.
Tone:
Its bassy, but not too dark, the mids are there but not overpowering, and the top end is glassey and smooth. Balanced. When played clean its sweet and chimey, when distorted its more bassy and the mids are more evident.
Sonic evaluation:
My guitar is a 200$ Ibanez stratocopy, straight into a crate 20W solid state amp. It had such cheap single coils, I had to get something to match the higher output humbucker. Since it looks almost just like a strat (the jack is on the bottom edge, not near the pickguard) I thought I should give it a more strat-y tone. It doesnt mix well with the stock middle single coil, though. the combination kinda takes alot of the sweet chiminess out of the neck SSL-1. I want to replace the middle with a SSL-1 to have a good match. I also wish I could combine the SSL-1 with the ibanez powersound humbucker for a more tele middle position sound, after all I do play music by the Stones so if it could sound more like a tele that’d be great.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I play stuff by the Stones, so i guess thats classic rock. Its sweet for clean stuff, and a lil distortion brings me closer to that vintage fender tone, but since its not a tele pickup its never going to be quite like Keith’s tone. I also play some stuff by Greenday, AFI, Bad Religion, and this pickup is NOT meant for that and I dont use it that way.
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender Strat made in JAPAN
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
blues rock, rock , heavy metal
Reason for pickup change:
I have a small amount of money don’t know where to spend…..so just bought one and try whether it is as good as those guys mentioned on this website or not.
Pickup features:
single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
It is not much better that the stock pickup.
Tone:
Not as bassy as the spec provided by Seymour Duncan, but it really sounds clean and bright; it can provide a vintage tone like those in elvis presley’s song if we use a little distortion and turn the volume of the pickup to full.
Sonic evaluation:
I am using my great PEAVEY TRIUMPH 60 full tube amp made in USA, which is not similar to those fucking PEAVEY models from CHINA nowadays.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It is really great for playing jimi hendrix’s solo. At first i placed it on the neck, hoping to provide a bassy bright tone but i did not get what i expected. It seems a mess when used with the middle pickup. Then i moved it to the bridge, it sounds great, the noise is lower than the mid and neck stock pickups, however with a much brighter and cleaner tone, which makes me feel like drinking a can of “ICE SPRIT” , the great feeling got into my heart, haha!!
Model of guitar or bass:
Mexican Nashville Tele
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Mexican trashcaster
Other pickups on guitar:
Vintage Broadcaster Bridge, and Vintage Telecaster neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Rock, Country, contemperary, big band
Reason for pickup change:
Old one had minimal quack and nominal mud
Pickup features:
Single coil passive
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Is much cleaner and has a bit more output then the stock p/u
Tone:
Very……….stratty for lack of a better word. Sounds similer to middle position on tele but without so much ring
Sonic evaluation:
I use a Fender Hot Rod Deluxe, a DanElecto Daddyo, a DanElectro tuna melt, and a Morley volume pedal. I wanted absolute clarity mixed with more power. As I looked at more power I started to worry that I would loose clarity so I went with a vintage pickup in each position and bought a volume pedal. The sounds are exactly what I was looking for. If/when I get a strat I’ll get 3 of the ssl-1s to put in it. It has more power than the stock ones and definately gets THE tone for me.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Pretty much anything but metal
Model of guitar or bass:
Mexican Stratocaster – Fat Strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
(all positions but bridge) Stock ceramic pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock Fat Strat Humbucker
Artists using this pickup:
like i care
You musical style(s):
Blues, Blues rock, some Indie rock
Reason for pickup change:
Wanted an upgrade. Love the sound of the vintage (Pre-CBS) strat, (think clean hendrix)… totally in love with the strat sound, but wanted something more breathable than my stock Ceramic pickups
Pickup features:
Single Coil Passive
Impedence or other specs:
6.8 or so
Perceived output level:
louder than the stocks, almost equal to the stock Humbucker, which is funny, because i always used to be able to rely on the humbucker for a boost in a gigging situation
Tone:
Chimey. very chime like, but with a bite. Much more responsive to the tone controls than the originals. Bell like, very pre-CBS
Sonic evaluation:
OK, first thing about this review is that my rig is a bit obsessive. I’m a tone freak. I’ve done some switching mod’s on the strat, inluding a Series/Single/Parallel on the humbucker and a Master Phase on the middle PU. Forget about all that “mexican’s aren’t real strats” garbage, the body wood is quite nice, she feels gorgeous, and the only thing I felt she was lacking was a real ability to sing through her eletronics. these pickups helped immensly. they’re a bit biting in the clean tones, but in a good way. chimey and hendrix-like, if you like playing blues without a driver they are punchy pickups that you will enjoy immensley. Position 4 (middle/neck) is still dark and clean, with a significant drop in the bite but an excellent tone. These pickups have a gorgeous bottom end running through my Fender Hotrod Deluxe, and though the treb sometimes bites a bit too much on “10″ tone, a roll back to “8″ or so levels them out while retaining the sonic beauty. Running through the Telefunken tubes in my second and third gain stages, these pickups are unbelievable. pump up the bass and you can feel the low-E in your chest, great for some dirty bassy blues. equalize them and turn the tones down and you’ve got some good Stephen Stills-type distortion. up the treb and its very hendrix-esque. these pickups are *very* 60’s. (which isnt to say they cant do heavier styles… run through my solid state drivers they can really growl)
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
perfect blues pickups. a little soft without the right drivers for a hard rock sound, and a little too dirty for pristine jazz runs, but my entire setup is geared towards the 60’s sound so take my words with a grain or two of salt
Model of guitar or bass:
54 re-issue
Position:
neck
Pickup being replaced:
stock
Other pickups on guitar:
stock
Artists using this pickup:
dont care. I tried I lkied it I bought it and I d buy more.
You musical style(s):
Blues
Reason for pickup change:
Why not try it , no real need but i did.
Pickup features:
single coil
Impedence or other specs:
6.5k
Perceived output level:
A little bit higher output than stock but I wouldnt recomend buying one as I have done as it sounds great on its own but when mixed with others of different Ohms it tends to drown out the mix of both ( my Fault there you go but i tend not to mix it in position 2 anyway)
Tone:
OK Compared to stock pup it is far more glassy a sound ( if you know what I mean) treble good mid good bass ok a good balanced tone can easily be achived with the correct set up amp speakers etc.
Sonic evaluation:
54 reissue strat ash body ( this might make a difference to sound as the the crap new stuff aka 97 strat american standard boy below will tel you ).going through 60’s bassman and 2×12 greenbacks
blues pups these no problem there at all,nice clear tones through out the range bass response is not as high as some fender pups I use ( texas specials) or ( original fender 70’s flat poles these are in ash body also and are far bassier than SD’s)
even though 97 strat boy ’s review was crap he was right about matched sets they will be far better suited to over all tone when switching and mixing positions IE 2+4
Overall though it is very close sound to my 63 start in neck position
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues . yes it is a good match Try it in any position if your looking for a different tone its only a soldering job?
Model of guitar or bass:
Fender American Std. 97
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Fender Delta Tones
Other pickups on guitar:
All SSL-1’s
Artists using this pickup:
Puff Daddy? Oh no, he’s not an artist
You musical style(s):
Blues, blues rock, modern rock
Reason for pickup change:
Companies always hold out with the good pickups so you have to buy them separate. Bastards.
Pickup features:
Passive single coil set
Impedence or other specs:
Perceived output level:
Slightly hotter and warmer than stock. A little more mids-not too much
Tone:
A little warmer and slightly more mids than Fat 50’s. Less mids than Texas Specials.
Sonic evaluation:
First of all, I felt compelled to write a review because no one else in this column was qualified. All I heard was Buzz Buster, Mix and match problems, solid state amps, Ibanez and Mexican junk. Good God. Buy a good guitar first. Anyway, The SSL_1’s should be bought in a matched set like any strat player would naturally do. The sound is basically a Clean fifties style sound with more warmth and punch. Seymour Duncan did his homework on this set. Some of his earlier strat pickups which were likely wound by him eventually became the SSL-1. I believe they have Alnico-5 magnets which is most people’s favorite for toneful pickups. This set has nice vintage chime set on clean but really handles lead tones better than most vintage Fender pickups. The only set I like as much as these is Fender’s Fat 50’s. They have a little less mids than the Duncans but similar output. I like the Duncans bridge pickup more than the Fat 50’s but I like the Fender’s neck and middle more. Both very good. Real Strat players will love both.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
I hate it when reviewers say “these single coils wouldn’t suit a thrash player” DUH!!!!
Model of guitar or bass:
1975 Fender Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
all
Other pickups on guitar:
middle RW/RP
Artists using this pickup:
n/a
You musical style(s):
Contemporary jazz, blues, funk & gospel
Reason for pickup change:
In 1988, I destroyed all my pickups trying to install a Buzz Buster kit to eliminate the noise in my strat. I later found out that installing the Buzz Buster kit would only eliminate the electrostatic noise. The 60 cycle hum still exists.
Pickup features:
Single-coil, passive, made like an original PRE-CBS strat pickup
Impedence or other specs:
6.5 kohms, earlier Fender pickups varied from 5.6kohms to 6.2kohms with the neck pickup as the highest output.
Perceived output level:
Little hotter than a Fender 57/62
Tone:
Glassy with good bass and mids, very well balanced
Sonic evaluation:
First of all, I must apologize to Seymour Duncan. Terribly Sorry. I thought this pickup was truly crap until just a few days ago, 2/16/02. Although I have had these pickups about 14 years, their specifications didn’t seem to match their tone. For example, the resonant peak of this pickup is 10kHz which means the timbre of this pickup is very bright. Now I understand how to adjust the HEIGHT to obtain the desired affect. That is very important with these pickups.
As far as amps, I have a Fender solid state Deluxe 112 amp with a stock eminence 1×12″ speaker. The tone would improve if I were to replace the speaker with a Celestion G12T-75.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Very good overall pickup for all styles.
Model of guitar or bass:
1975 Fender Stratocaster
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
all
Other pickups on guitar:
n/a
Artists using this pickup:
n/a
You musical style(s):
Contemporary jazz,blues, funk, & gospel
Reason for pickup change:
In 1989, I destroyed all my pickups trying to install a Buzz Buster kit to eliminate the noise in my strat. I later found out that installing the Buzz Buster kit would only eliminate the electrostatic noise. The 60 cycle hum still exists.
Pickup features:
Single-coil, passive, made like an original PRE-CBS strat pickup
Impedence or other specs:
6.5 kohms, earlier Fender pickups varied from 5.6kohms to 6.2kohms with the neck pickup
Perceived output level:
Little hotter than a Fender 57/62
Tone:
Glassy with good bass and mids
Sonic evaluation:
Fender solid state Deluxe 112 amp with stock eminence 1×12″ speaker. The tone would improve if I were to replace the speaker with a Celestion G12T-75.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Very good overall pickup for all styles.
Model of guitar or bass:
Ibanez GRX-70DX
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Worthless buzzing noisy stupid stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Stupid stock soon to be replaced
Artists using this pickup:
hopefully a lot
You musical style(s):
Ska, punk, metal, funk, blues, etc
Reason for pickup change:
Well this is primarily my backup guitar, but since I wrote a funk song, and I feel weird playing funk a Gibson LP with Duncan Invaders (highest output they make), I figured I’d pimp this baby out with some new hardware.
Pickup features:
Passive Single coil
Impedence or other specs:
no clue
Perceived output level:
It’s a little louder than my stock pickup, but not by much. It’s probably just more of a punch than actual volume change.
Tone:
Amazing. I didn’t know a single coil pickup could sound this good. It’s incredibley round, warm and even.
Sonic evaluation:
I’m using a Boogie 50/50 Power amp w/ peavey 4×12, fed by an RP2000 preamp, with a USA Big Muff Reissue, with all Monster Jazz/Rock cords (rock from guitar to pedal, jazz from pedal to amp). It’s awesome. This guitar is a cheap piece of shit, and since upgrading it (got the neck shaved properly, truss rod adjusted, grover machine heads put on, etc) it’s awesome. It’s really warm, has a little bite, but not shirll at all. Words can’t describe what I think of this pickup and I’m dead serious.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It’s a match made in head with ska and funk since it keeps things so clean. A blues player might want something a little more hollow sounding or more in the mid range. This is a really even pickup despite what SD says in their website.
Model of guitar or bass:
‘57 U.S. VIntage Reissue Strat
Position:
bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Stock Fender Reissue Pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Stock
Artists using this pickup:
??
You musical style(s):
Blues, Rock, Funk, Fusion, R&B
Reason for pickup change:
I wanted something slightly warmer and not so brittle sounding with a little more output.
Pickup features:
Vintage Staggered Single Coil Passive
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
A little bit hotter than the stock Fenders.
Tone:
Nicely balanced without the treble harshness than the stock pickups but still with “bite”.
Sonic evaluation:
I wanted to replace my bridge pickup because it was virtually useless with my current amps. When running my Strat through my ‘58 Fender Tremolux the bridge pickup didn’t have enough gain to get really nice sustain and sounded kind of thin with the stock pickups; running through either Marshall (JTM-45 plexi or MK-II 50W) the stock bridge pickup would rip your head off because it was sooooo trebly and as with the Fender it still lacked the sustain I wanted. The Duncan pickup gave me the improvements I wanted. It sounds fatter and less thin and trebly than the stock Fender pickup while providing more sustain and “vibe” than the original pickups. Even with clean tone I can add vibrato to the strings and the notes won’t die out quickly like with the stock Fender reissue pickup.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
It’s a GREAT match for my style of music and I want to add one to the neck position. I wouldn’t recommend this pickup if you’re into heavy-metal or highly overdriven tones as it would be too noisy IMO.
Model of guitar or bass:
Kramer Focus 111S – $69 special on MusicYo
Position:
middle
Pickup being replaced:
Stock korean pickup
Other pickups on guitar:
Fender 57-62 vintage in the neck and a SSL-5 in the bridge
Artists using this pickup:
dunno
You musical style(s):
jazz, blues
Reason for pickup change:
Stock pickups were too weak at 5.3 KOHMS
Pickup features:
Single coil
Impedence or other specs:
7.75KOHMS, staggered AlNiCo V magnets, vintage cloth-covered wire
Perceived output level:
At 7.8KOHMS, this guy is hotter than a vitnage Strat pickup. It fits very well in the middle with a 6.5kohms in the neck and a 14kohms in the bridge.
Tone:
Very balanced. Bright, yes, but not overly. Great pickup for soloing blues and R&R and I never thought I’d say that about the Strat’s mid position.
Sonic evaluation:
I run this guitar through a SS clean amp and a couple of small tubies. This pickup is too strong for the neck position where I originally had it as it sounds more like a very bright humbucker, maybe more P-90′ish in that position. In the mid position, it is perfect. Plenty of quack, too.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
Blues, funk, R&R.
Model of guitar or bass:
Homebuilt Strat
Position:
all positions
Pickup being replaced:
None
Other pickups on guitar:
None
Artists using this pickup:
?
You musical style(s):
Blues, Blues based Rock, Acid Jazz
Reason for pickup change:
I needed some pickups to throw in. Nothing got replaced.
Pickup features:
Passive Single Coil
Impedence or other specs:
?
Perceived output level:
They aren’t real hot, but I think they distort better than “hot” pickups.
Tone:
Balanced. Clear. Very much a vintage strat sound
Sonic evaluation:
I tried for years to cop Hendrix on a Les Paul. Then I broke down and got a ‘57 reissue strat. That was closer. Then I made my own strat and put these in it. This kind of pickup (vintage style -AlNiCo 5) was the missing ingredient. I never thought pickups could make a real difference until I put these in my homebuilt. I’m a believer. I mostly play this guitar through a reissue deluxe reverb or ‘63 princeton.
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:
These pickups are a great foundation for anything (except maybe death metal).
