ACTIV OR NO ACTIVE??

[kbozz316]

I am looking at making my s 470 more of a hi-gain monster. should i go active? i was debating on EMG's (81-85? or there new X series with one of there single coils, Maybe the new Duncan Blackouts) or do i stay passive with maybe a trembucker set up or some really hot duncans?

[djohns74]

Remember, high output does not necessarily mean "active pickups", that's a common misconception. Yes, the EMG 81 is a powerful pickup, and I have no issue with the sound, but it does have somewhat of a distinct tone just the same. Not that it sounds the same in every guitar as meny know-it-alls like to say, but the sound isn't for everyone in any event.

I'm a Dimarzio fan generally and either the X2N or the D Activator X models should do an effective job of getting the result you're after. I'm not sure what Duncan offers that would work for you, but I'm sure someone will be along shortly to recommend Bareknuckles.