Future S.D. Pickup Tone Samples - WISHLIST

[Masta' C]

So, we are all aware that the classic pickup sound samples on S.D.'s site are outdated, limited in scope and even inconsistent in some ways. We have received news that the sound clips on the site WILL be updated in the near future. Frank has asked us to compile a "wishlist" of specifics we would like to see in the new samples, so let's get them posted in this thread to help keep things organized!


Here are my personal suggestions to start things off:

AMPS: FENDER, MARSHALL

GUITARS: GIBSON LES PAUL (MAHOGANY), FENDER STRATOCASTER (ALDER), IBANEZ RG (BASSWOOD)

MODES: CLEAN, MID GAIN, HIGH GAIN

PLAYING STYLES: SOLO RUNS, CHORDS, SUSTAINED NOTES.


ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Amp settings should be kept neutral and identical throughout. The idea is consistency between samples.

The riff(s) played should be consistent between same modes (i.e. all clean samples play riff #1, all mid-gain samples play riff #2, etc.). By doing this, a person should be able to play the "Custom-Clean/Marshall/Strat" sample back-to-back with the "Screamin Demon-Clean/Marshall/Strat" sample and get a basic feel for the tonal differences between the two.

Also, I would suggest keeping the "tone samples" separate from any "video highlights" that are made. The tone samples must be consistent to be used for comparison.

Video spotlights, on the other hand, would be the perfect place to fine-tune the test rig for a particular pickup and highlight its strengths and weaknesses without restrictions on amp settings, playing style, etc. Also, I would save use of backing tracks for the video demos only, where each pickup's character and presence in a mix can be better tailored. It would also be nice to hear some palm muting and pinch harmonic qualities demonstrated in high gain modes, also, but not on the regular "tone samples"...again, save the "special" stuff for the videos!


What would you like to see?



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[Ventilator]

Re: Future S.D. Pickup Tone Samples - WISHLIST

Copied from the other thread:

I may be in the minority here, but I really would like to have audio samples of every pickup played using the same riffs, both clean and distorted.

I find it annoying when I want to compare tones and have to deal with strats having a different set of riffs for clean and dirty. I want to hear the same riff. It also annoys me when humbuckers and telecasters have different riffs than each other as well as different riffs from the strats. If I can only make one suggestion it would be find one good short piece of music that showcases open chords, power chords, and a good progression of single notes. Then take this one piece and play it across every pickup in the production line, and maybe even the custom shop models. Play it through the same amp with a neutral EQ in the same guitar. Provide the tabs too, that way people can compare to their own equipment.

In short: It really bothers me that I cant really find out how a full sized humbucker is going to sound on a strat (or similar) based on the audio samples. The riffs are different and that throws me off. It also bothers me that I cant really tell how the addition of distortion is going to change the sound because the riff is different.

Oh yeah, and a dedicated middle position option on the strat samples please.

 

[Masta' C]

Re: Future S.D. Pickup Tone Samples - WISHLIST

Good points.

Choosing the right Strat body would allow them to demo the H-H pickup configuration, but also the S-S-S configuration to demonstrate single coils and middle positions with nothing more than a pickguard swap.

I can also see your logic for wanting the same riff played for both clean and dirty.

 

[Ed Hunter]

Re: Future S.D. Pickup Tone Samples - WISHLIST

I just hope the gain clips are not overdone with a amp like a RECTO or similar
with that much gain the tone is very hard to make out anyway

 

[Artie]

Re: Future S.D. Pickup Tone Samples - WISHLIST

I would actually prefer to hear the pickups in a more "clinical" environment. For example, into a high-quality direct box, into a hi-fi amp, (Crown, et al), hi-fi speakers. (Good monitors.) I remember when I played my guitars through my mixing board>Crown amp> Yamaha monitors. It really highlighted the difference between the pickups and guitars.

Then, use the "Tips and Clips" section of the forum for individuals to demonstrate their pups through specific rigs.

But thats just me. :1:

 

[Got_tone?]

Re: Future S.D. Pickup Tone Samples - WISHLIST

Hopefully, they can make clips for some of custom shop pickups. The '78, brobucker, s-deco, and Bug-Sey "Bucker" to name a few. $160 for a pickup and no clip(s) is a huge leap of faith. I've never been disappointed with my orders with the CS, but sometimes word of mouth isn't enough to entice you. When times are hard, you honestly need more than a specs sheet or online review.

 

[King IzzO)))]

Re: Future S.D. Pickup Tone Samples - WISHLIST

Hopefully, they can make clips for some of custom shop pickups. The '78, brobucker, s-deco, and Bug-Sey "Bucker" to name a few. $160 for a pickup and no clip(s) is a huge leap of faith. I've never been disappointed with my orders with the CS, but sometimes word of mouth isn't enough to entice you. When times are hard, you honestly need more than a specs sheet or online review.

This.