want to hear your opinion

[CK71]

And can I use SSL-52 for metal? I want to use it for various genres (pop, blues, classic rock and mass rock, and even metal) after modification.

The 52 wouldn't be my first choice for metal but with the right amp and pedals why not. It is a true single coil and very balanced tone wise. I have used them in a strat and really enjoyed the tone. They will work well for the other genres of music you play.

[Mincer]

If I was going to use a lot of gain, I might look into a stacked design instead, or single coil-sized humbucker. You can run them in parallel for a clearer, cleaner single coilish sound.

[GuitarStv]

If I was going to use a lot of gain, I might look into a stacked design instead, or single coil-sized humbucker. You can run them in parallel for a clearer, cleaner single coilish sound.

This is a good idea. You can always add gain to a clean sounding pickup . . . but doing that with singles can make the hum and noise a bit of a nightmare.

[Architect-128]

Hum measures are fine. I prefer regular single coils over stacked or single size humbuckers.

[Architect-128]

Thank you CK71.I consider ssl-52-1

[Architect-128]

I overheard that a tapped version of the SSL-7 could be used in a variety of genres, what do you think?

[Mincer]

It can, but with higher gain, you will get higher noise.

[Architect-128]

Ok,I'm going to install ssl-52

[Mincer]

Five Twos are great pickups. I have one in the middle of my HSS set.

[Architect-128]

That's good. What is your neck pickup?
My question is, does the SSL-52 feel 'flimsy'? Do you have any beef with the sound?

[Mincer]

In the neck I have a Classic Stack. As far as Five Twos having 'beef;...well, they are single coils, and they 'feel' like single coils. So comparing them to a humbucker, they are cleaner, clearer, more dynamic, but still certainly single coils. Great for vintage sounds. You'd need a boost for heavier stuff.

[Architect-128]

Ok,thank you.
Sorry for repeating the question. Does Duncan have a "Modern Vintage" single coil pickup like the Suhr ML?

[Architect-128]

I'm looking for a Duncan pickup that is just a little hotter (like a Suhr ML for that matter) because the SSL-5 has a higher output.
Can the SSL-52 produce a modern sound?

[Mincer]

The Five Two is a vintage sound, not particularly modern. How do you define a modern sound? I am not familiar with the Suhr.

[Teleplayer]

Suhr ML has a middy sound - I think its a bit like having a tube screamer on all the time. To me the SSL-2 are not too far away from the Suhr ML in terms of output, but the Duncan's have a more relaxed voicing in the mids which I prefer.