Jerry Donahue + APS-2

[Supernautilus]

A while ago I tried to do a Telecaster with a Strat neck pickup using a STL-1b Broadcaster in the bridge and an SSL-2 in the neck. I thought I would love it, but eventually I realized I didn't and switched that set out for something else. It's weird because I used to really like the Broadcaster because it's so ballsy, but lately I think I've been growing weary of A5 in single coils, as it's just too thin and harsh sometimes. Likewise, the SSL-2 was just a bit too thin and trebly for my taste. This is why I love the Jerry Donahue model so much, as it's just so smooth.

Meanwhile, today I realized I never actually tried a JD with an APS-2. Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't this the exact combo that he used? Makes sense if he did, as I bet it would be a perfect match.

Is anyone here actually using this combo? Or have you used it in the past? I'm seriously thinking about giving it a go. I would need to buy an APS2 though, as I don't own one. So I just figured I'd ask around here first before I pull the trigger. Thanks.

 

[jeremy]

yes, it is. ive used it in the past, and it was great. i was using a aps2/aps2/twangbanger set in a strat right when the twangbanger came out, actually a little before (thanks sd!) so i knew i liked the aps2 and the jd was a great match in my black tele.

 

[Supernautilus]

UPDATE: I finally got a chance to put together my Jerry Donahue inspired Tele.

First off, the APS-2…wow. I’m thoroughly impressed. THIS is the Strat tone I was looking for. The SSL was way too scooped and harsh. The APS is the complete opposite. Fat and smooth. A+.

Combined with the JD bridge, it’s a great combo and makes for a very useful Tele. I did skip the 5 way JD wiring though, as it didn’t sound that interesting to me. I went with a standard 3 way plus a dedicated series switch.

The only other thing I was thinking about was maybe a fancy new pickguard from Decoboom to Jazz it up a bit. Otherwise, I think this axe is finished. What do guys think?

 

[Mincer]

Great choice in pickups! How does series sound? I'd be interested in out of phase sounds with those pickups too, as a Tele usually particularly good out of phase sounds. I also like the pickguard. What is different about the one you want to change it to?

 

[Supernautilus]

Great choice in pickups! How does series sound? I'd be interested in out of phase sounds with those pickups too, as a Tele usually particularly good out of phase sounds. I also like the pickguard. What is different about the one you want to change it to?

Series sounds surprisingly good. I almost didn’t do it at first because I was worried it would sound too dark with two A2 pickups in series. But it’s still pretty crunchy with a decent amount of presence.

I’m interested in Decoboom pickguards because they have some neat prints and look well made. I would need a custom cut though, so they might not be able to do it. I’ll have to ask them I guess.

 

[Mincer]

Series sounds surprisingly good. I almost didn’t do it at first because I was worried it would sound too dark with two A2 pickups in series. But it’s still pretty crunchy with a decent amount of presence.

I’m interested in Decoboom pickguards because they have some neat prints and look well made. I would need a custom cut though, so they might not be able to do it. I’ll have to ask them I guess.

Hmm, I think I like the way it is now.

 

[Supernautilus]

Hmm, I think I like the way it is now.

I do too, but I was just thinking about ways to jazz it up a little.

The APS came with a white cover of course. But that looked way out of place so I changed it to black. The black on black looks better I think, but maybe a little bland. I generally like it when pickups contrast with a guitar's pickguard. But I suppose this is good enough. For now anyways lol.

 

[jeremy]

glad you like the new set. i like the a5 sound as well, but love the chewy mid feel of a2.

 

[Mincer]

I do too, but I was just thinking about ways to jazz it up a little.

The APS came with a white cover of course. But that looked way out of place so I changed it to black. The black on black looks better I think, but maybe a little bland. I generally like it when pickups contrast with a guitar's pickguard. But I suppose this is good enough. For now anyways lol.

The black on black is fantastic.

 

[Artie]

I'm interested in Decoboom pickguards because they have some neat prints and look well made.

Thanks for that. Cool stuff.