High VS Low output p/ups & tube amps

[Dankerella]

Well we all know how tube amps sound best cranked, which is how I use them. So I'm wondering, with respect to high output/distortion pickups versus lower output: would a higher output pickup actually drive the tubes harder, or is it just a perceived volume increase? On another note, do you think a lower output pickup may work better comparatively because to get at the same volume as a high output pickup, you'd need to turn the amp up louder, thus driving the tubes harder?

 

[SABOTAGE]

Re: High VS Low output p/ups & tube amps

Well we all know how tube amps sound best cranked, which is how I use them. So I'm wondering, with respect to high output/distortion pickups versus lower output: would a higher output pickup actually drive the tubes harder, or is it just a perceived volume increase? On another note, do you think a lower output pickup may work better comparatively because to get at the same volume as a high output pickup, you'd need to turn the amp up louder, thus driving the tubes harder?

what happens is if you play with say a medium gain amp like a JCM 800
and use no overdrive pedal a high output pup will hit the preamp stage of the amp with more millivolts and in turn this creates more distortion
NO pup itself is DISTORTED(this is a myth)
lower output pups will not hit the preamp stage of the amp with as many millivolts and in turn
do not create as much overdrive.
I love a pup like the EMG 81 or duncan distortion through high or meduim gain amps due to the fact that both have power but keep a clean type tone.
'this is because both of these pups have real good clarity.
i dont care for lower output pups,they have the clarity but not the balls :dance:

 

[Thames]

Re: High VS Low output p/ups & tube amps

Hmm.. I personnaly prefer low output HBs for their exceptionnal clarity and definition, and dynamics.

Power tubes will distort when cranked AND driven hard. If you apply a weak signal, you wont get overdrive.