EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

Re: EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

as far as emgs go, i think the 60 makes the best neck pup and the 81 is the most popular bridge pup. if you like the tone, then youre in good shape
 
Re: EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

81s are great. Soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo many guitar players use them for a reason. (dillinger escape plan, my one of my favs, uses them and they rock)
 
Re: EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

I've actually had emg 81's, 85's, & 89's in my les pauls for over 15 years. I am getting ready to put some SD p/up's in them (at least one of them). Put it this way...(with the emg's) I'm happy with my sound, but want a better tone. I've been researching the crap out of these pick-ups and have about decided on a Custom 5, or a Duncan Distortion (for a bridge p/up).....I think they're great, I'm just ready for a change....in tone.
-Burk
 
Re: EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

EMGs have a very distinct sound, however players like me like that. I'd say try the 85 in the bridge though, I did and I like the 85 head and shoulders above the 81. It has more chunk and thud, and it has got a really heavy midrange. Players like Killswitch Engage and Shadows Fall prefer it because of that. In my opinion it kills the 81, no contest. Alot of people base their judgement of all EMGs on the 81, but really, the 81 is just a unique pickup it has alot of treble and tons of output. The 85 on the other hand is really clear has strong output, but also has a much richer sound. My preference is the 85b/60n pair if you are going the EMG route. Checkout my soundclick page if you want to hear the combo. All of my recent stuff was all done with that pickup combo.

www.soundclick.com/shredhead


Cheers,
George.
 
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Re: EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

+1 on the 85 bridge... 60 neck is really really nice. Heck try a 60 or 60A in the bridge. It is bright but in a cooler way than the 81. Warmer, with more character.
 
Re: EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

shredhead7, your stuff sounds really cool. So far "left alone" is my fav.
 
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Re: EMG 81(B)-60(N) set?

The 60 and 60a are the best PUs..Well balanced ,dynamic yet tight enough!
60a is a great Bridge PU for 1HB guitars or Bridge PU Solos...
 
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