What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

[noisy humbucker]

Hello all,

As the title says, I’m wondering if there’s anything between the Duncan Distortion and the Omega bridge pickups. They’re probably my two favorites from Duncan, but the Distortion is just too much of everything (eq and output) for my taste these days whereas the Omega is maybe just a bit too modern (trimmed down a bit too much). If I had to choose one I’d probably stay with the Omega, but that’s still not ideal.

Thanks!

[Masta' C]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

Black Winter

[noisy humbucker]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

That’s actually what I started looking at initially, but the more I dig the more I think it’s not what I’m looking for. Still a bit too modern and too hot.

I’m not opposed to giving it a shot, just doesn’t seem like I’f ultimately choose it over the Omega.

[Mincer]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

I'd maybe go with the regular Custom, then.

[Adieu]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

So.... ceramic, >13, <16?

One of the DiMarzio Super models? Gibson 500t? Duncan Distortion magswapped to a smaller regular thickness ceramic or maybe A8?

[Masta' C]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

I'm with Mincer...really can't lose with the good ol' Custom. Not as modern as a Black Winter, not as hot as a Distortion. You might really like it!

Plus, the Custom wind takes magnet swaps better than just about any other pickup made.

[noisy humbucker]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

Also sticking to Duncan for this one because borderline- not-really-OCD.

Just listening to Keith Merrow’s 6-string shootout, am I crazy for contemplating the Custom 5? The SH-5 comes across as too bright for my taste.

[Masta' C]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

The Custom 5 is noticeably scooped...and plenty bright.

If you like the Custom 5's general tone, but want a tighter bottom end, check out the Full Shred

Have you thought about trying the classic JB?

The Alt 8 is really cool, also.

[noisy humbucker]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

All I recall of the JB is that my ears were not a fan when I first developed tinnitus... but I've grown more accustomed so perhaps it's worth another look (on paper anyway it's nearly a perfect step up across the EQ).

P.S. I don't like Keith's tone for my stuff (I tend to wring most of the "quack" out of my rig, but it works great for him), but his old videos are hard to beat for a 1-1 comparison.

P.P.S. Thanks for all of the input so far guys, much obliged!

[noisy humbucker]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

Now I’m thinking of getting a 250k volume for the bridge and giving the SH-5 a shot (figured I’d be putting in a 250k if I try the JB anyway).

Also possibly relevant - ideally I’ll be pairing the bridge with a ‘59 in the neck.

[Masta' C]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

I strongly suggest sticking with 500K if that's what you have now. Change one thing at a time

[noisy humbucker]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

This is all for a new build, all the references I’ve made to other pickups are what I’ve used previously in different guitars. I can change the pot easily enough if it comes to it. I’d even use a liberator if they had a push-pull version.

[noisy humbucker]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

I almost committed to the JB, but then I saw the Thrash Factor. While I like the idea of it (though “more aggressive highs” worries me) there’s not a whole lot of useful info out there. I’m sure it’s a cash grab, but possibly different enough from the standard JB to be worth trying if one is starting from scratch.

[orpheo]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

the SH6N is an amazing pickup. It has a bit more power than the omega but not nearly as much as the distortion. it's got the cut but also the clarity.

The custom is imho way too chewy to be considered an in between model.

[STLMTLHD79]

Re: What’s between a Distortion and an Omega?

I say Alternative 8. Its all the things you want in a JB, but better. It is becoming my favorite high output pickup.