Replacement for my Zakk set?

[keano12]

I have 2 Les Pauls with EMG Zakk set but on one guitar the 81 sounds Very hi fi. Not full. Is there something out there similar but with more fulless?

Maybe 85/85 or JB/Jazz.

I like the sound of my old strat with Hot Rails.

 

[JOLLY]

Re: Replacement for my Zakk set?

Maybe a Duncan Distortion set. I've never tried it in any of my Les Pauls, but I've only heard good things about it.

 

[D-EJ915]

Re: Replacement for my Zakk set?

You could try turning up the tone pot all the way, when I turn mine all the way up it sounds like having the 81 in the neck, so my 1 81 is essentially like having 2 That might thicken it up a bit.

I always thought of the Distortion being a rather bright pickup, like the 81, so I think the Custom would be more like the 85 if he were to go the passive direction.

 

[DeadSkinSlayer3]

Re: Replacement for my Zakk set?

^^ He means turning it down, not up.

The Custom is like the 85, but with a brittle high end and less punch.

I'd try the 85 first!

 

[frehley]

Re: Replacement for my Zakk set?

^^ He means turning it down, not up.

The Custom is like the 85, but with a brittle high end and less punch.

I'd try the 85 first!

I agree, the 85 will keep the agressive characteristics of the 81 but with
more bass. It won't be as edgy as the 81 but thicker. At least try it first before you gut the guitar cavity for passive pups.

 

[PRG]

Re: Replacement for my Zakk set?

I love the 81 as a neck p'up, but find it too thin and bright in the bridge, maybe put the 85 in the bridge and move the 81 to the neck.

 

[keano12]

Re: Replacement for my Zakk set?

Tried the 85 and liked it but I don't think it a live situation it would cut though. Chucky ass hell though. I did reocrding tests and 81 just cuts better. Just wish it was a little smoother.