How different are the FS-1 and the SSL-5?

[Hairmail]

It's a question I've been asking myself this for a while and there doesn't seem to be much online about this so I thought I'd go ask the question here. For those who have used both, is it a massive difference or a more subtle shifting of the EQ?

[idsnowdog]

Re: How different are the FS-1 and the SSL-5?

I wouldn't put too much faith in the simple statistics that both SD and Dimarzio publish for either pickups. B/M/T graphics are like asking someone if a piece of food is spicy or not and is based on individual perception.

[Simon_F]

Re: How different are the FS-1 and the SSL-5?

I have used both (though not for a while now) and the difference seemed pretty subtle to me - very similar! Both do a great job of beefing up a Strat bridge position while retaining a single coil vibe.

[TimmyPage]

Re: How different are the FS-1 and the SSL-5?

It makes sense that they'd be similar, considering that both were more or less designed for David Gilmour, if memory serves.

[Hairmail]

Re: How different are the FS-1 and the SSL-5?

The FS-1 wasn't, I'm pretty sure David was just using them, and he went to Seymour Duncan later to try and get something different, although not too different it seems. They're both very much in the "beefy strat pickup" realm.

[JeffB]

Re: How different are the FS-1 and the SSL-5?

Ido not have nearly the EQ probs with the FS1 and vintage middle/necks, as with the SSL5, where I find I can never get the EQ right for the vintage singles and thessl5...one always sounds alot better than the others. FS1 just doesnt seem so overwound and midrangey.