EMG SA Output problem

[jonsick]

I have an EMG SA in the neck of a Jackson SL2H. It came with the guitar.

My problem is I love the EMG81 in the bridge position but the SA's output is markedly lower than the bridge, to the point where it's just weak.

So questions:
- Any suggestions on naturally increasing it's output like a boost under the control cavity? Basically anything I can do before I go pickup shopping?
- Are the Blackout single coil offerings a bit stronger? If so I could just drop one of those in to match up to the EMG 81? I'm not worried about mismatching brands.
- If I decide to say nuts to it and go passive (thinking the trusty JB Antiquity or a Perpetual Burn), what should I pair into the neck position to keep that output nice and high? I'm thinking Duncan Hot-Rails.

The middle position is coming out, don't like middle pickups. Happier with just a hole there

 

[BRHGM]

Re: EMG SA Output problem

It's just an warmer active strat pickup. I like the EMG S with the EMG 81. It's brighter. The Blackout Single is supposed to be hotter. The EMG singles are not like a Dimarzio Super D single or a Hot Rail. So no they will never balance out and no, a Hot Rail will not equal the output of a full sized hot humbucker.

 

[jonsick]

Re: EMG SA Output problem

I've decided to go with a full new set.

Open to suggestions... I play metal but I like a nice midrange to my sound, round tone if that makes sense. Basically I'm not into the super zeddy everything has to be exact sort of tones. Think more Skid Row.

So hum,sing,sing. May leave out the middle SC, but I figure as the switch is showing its age, annoyed that I can't use the neck pickup for anything meaningful, going for a full swap out.

So suggest away.

--SECOND that I'll make a new thread

 

[BRHGM]

Re: EMG SA Output problem

Dimarzio makes a full line of humbucker singles from bright to very hot. More choices than Seymour Duncan or EMG. I have used most of the Seymour Duncan humbucker singles and they vary from vintage to hot but not as extreme as some of the other choices. The EMG singles are definitely in the vintage range. Personally, I like a vintage sounding neck. It doesn’t get muddy. I have a 5-2 Strat single in the neck of a Tele and it stays warm, but not muddy. I have a classic stack in the neck of another Tele and it’s bright and airy. Cool Rails are a good choice if you go Duncan. They can be split. I like the EMG SAs in my Strat, but it’s not for everyone. Good luck.