Higher output JB model?

[DrNewcenstein]

Re: Higher output JB model?

The trick to bands like Megadeth getting a killer Metal tone with the JB is layering 2 JB-equipped guitars playing identical parts and being doubled by the bass. Using a JB by itself will not sound as "Metal" as some would prefer (i.e. bedroom jamming), so in that respect, it does seem a bit underpowered.

Over the years I've learned that these are the critical details often left out of these threads.

 

[Rabihz24]

Re: Higher output JB model?

The trick to bands like Megadeth getting a killer Metal tone with the JB is layering 2 JB-equipped guitars playing identical parts and being doubled by the bass. Using a JB by itself will not sound as "Metal" as some would prefer (i.e. bedroom jamming), so in that respect, it does seem a bit underpowered.

Over the years I've learned that these are the critical details often left out of these threads.

I agree....

 

[Rabihz24]

Re: Higher output JB model?

I don't think the PATB-1 sounds much like a stock JB. It does great singing leads, where the JB more screams. Both great sounds, and it's possible to do similar things with a bit of amp tweaking, but they aren't really interchangable. The mids aren't out of control on the PATB-1, and it can do a ridiculous range of tones well. It is thicker than the JB, and actually a bit brighter, but less harsh because it doesn't have the crazy upper midrange peak of the JB (which makes harmonics & lead playing so unpredictable on the JB).

PATB-2 is closer to the JB than the PATB-1 is. Given it's an overwound take on the Distortion, with some of the harshness dialed down... It solos a lot like a JB, only with more & tighter bass. Rhythms are more like a thicker Distortion or a wider range Invader. Cleans aren't much like the JB, though it can pull off a cool cold clean if your amp has enough headroom.
The PATB-2 is a monster for thrash and has an awesome growl for riffs.

I absolutely LOVE the PATB series, thickens a floating tremelo guitar up like a Les Paul, without getting loose or farting out. The improves sustain, reduced string pull, boosted harmonic response and higher output with more usable tones on tap from the volume & tone knob are just wonderful bonuses past that.

There are some Custom Shop pickups that are variations on the JB (Bug-Sey, Warren DeMartini, and the Lynch Super-V), but most of them are hotter winds, and all are A2, which likely isn't what you're looking for, as cool a sound as it is.

Given you don't want more mids, just more grunt from the sound of things, you may just want the Dave Mustaine actives.

Great review mate...Thanks