EMG installation assistance

[drucifer]

Posted this over at HC, but they may be tired of seeing EMG problems

I've removed and reinstalled EMG's many times. I've followed the diagram (Les Paul wiring, post-1975). I typically leave the tone controls out of the circuit, and this time is no different. I've removed and re-checked my connections. However, the 81/85 I just installed in a LP Studio sound very thin, and suspiciously single-coil-like. I know that's not how they're supposed to sound, but at this point, I don't know why they do.

I used the pots supplied with the ZW set. Can a fouled-up pot do something of this nature? Perhaps I've melted the insulation on one of the white wires coming from the pickup and it's shorting to ground? Help?

EDIT:

I failed to mention that with the bridge volume on 0, and with the switch in the bridge position, I get bleed-through from the neck pickup.

 

[ksmith63]

Re: EMG installation assistance

maybe its a bad solder connection somewhere. if you have a voltimeter try using that to make sure all of the connections are good.

you could also try the 18v mod on them. made mine sound a little more alive.

i have no idea how to help with the bleed-through problem......

 

[Zerberus]

Re: EMG installation assistance

...I failed to mention that with the bridge volume on 0, and with the switch in the bridge position, I get bleed-through from the neck pickup....

This sounds like the switch is either miswired or faulty.... This could also be the cause of the other issues....

 

[fenderiarhs]

Re: EMG installation assistance

if your emgs have the quick connect system also check if you have used the quick connect plug with the right orientation(not upside-down)

 

[drucifer]

Re: EMG installation assistance

Ignore me guys...I'm an idiot.:22:

 

[frehley]

Re: EMG installation assistance

So what was the problem?

 

[drucifer]

Re: EMG installation assistance

My ears. :guilty:

They were not prepared for the dramatic difference in tone/clarity between a 498T and an EMG 81 without a tone pot.