Duncan Blackouts backing

Rydock

Rydock

New member
Hi guys. I'm new to this forum, and I just bought myself a set of blackouts today. I'm actually really excited to install them into my ibanez RG (project for the ultimate metal tone on basswood). Right now I can't install them yet until I pick up some solder; wait for my custom H-H pickguard to delete the middle single; and decide if I should buy a 3 way switch or just use the stock 5 way.

I opened the box to have a look at them. The black backing stuff on the on the back of the bridge pickup has like a bubble or something on one corner. When I touch it, it sounds like tape. This is only on one corner of the bridge and none on the neck.

I was just wondering what this stuff is (thin tape or something thicker). I'm not too worried about it, but I wanted to be sure that this wont affect the output of the pickups. I read somewhere a long time ago that EMG actives had to be sealed and if they ever opened, it would render them useless.

The damage is very minimal. Only about 2 mm on the black plastic that the pcb sits on. I don't want to poke at it anymore incase I cause more damage.

Let me know what you guys think. I can take pictures tomorrow if that helps. Thanks
 
Re: Duncan Blackouts backing

whoa that's crazy. i have no idea about that but i'm thinkin of trying those pickups soon so let us know what you think when you get it all sorted out...
 
Re: Duncan Blackouts backing

It sounds like just an air bubble in the epoxy that dried. I've seent that on some EMG's. It shouldn't affect anything at all. The epoxy you see around the back is generally superficial. The pickup is potted and epoxy sealed, and we fill it up to the edge. A picture will confirm it.
 
Re: Duncan Blackouts backing

If that is epoxy, then it looks like everything should be fine. I'll post a pic anyways. Thanks for the input guys. Will also get you guys pics of the finished product. I remember a long time ago someone told me that 80/20 rosin core solder was the best for pickups. Cant remember though :scratchch. Well
I guess solder is solder lol.
 
Re: Duncan Blackouts backing

livewires never seem to come with all the right bits. ive had 3 sets and you always struggle to get the bits you need. i had to go back to the shop twice on my last lot for a output jack then the pickup screws!
 
Re: Duncan Blackouts backing

I was struggling into making up my decision of getting the D activators or duncan blackouts. One main reason I went with blackouts is because it came with almost everything I needed (minus 3 way switch). Also they claimed they can get an active sound with a passive circuit. Then I thought 'what about the preamps'. I wanted a true active pickup because this is the only guitar that I will need an active sound. Also, I didn't want to cross over into the darkness known as Dimarzio. I've been a long time Duncan user, ever since I got my first JB.
 
Re: Duncan Blackouts backing

Erm, just to make sure, the D Activators are normal passive pickups that claim to have the character of an active (how that is I ain't sure nor really concerned).

The Blackouts ARE actives. They were made as new and improved EMG 81/85 A.K.A. the Zakk Wylde set.
I've read (haven't heard them myself) that they have the basic EMG character with more lows, more highs and a more growling type of distortion than the EMG Hi-Fi metallic type...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top