• From: Nova Scotia, Canada
  • Registered: 2013-01-20
  • Posts: 4,083

Topic: Screeching EMG Pickups

Every time I listen to a guitar solo that has a headache-inducing screech to it, I typically find the guitar being played has EMG 81's or 85's on it. What is it with those things? They say they're designed to "cut through the mix" but it feels like they're cutting through my skull. If I ever buy a guitar that comes with those stock, they'll be pulled immediately for Gibson 490's or some other Alnico Magnet humbucker. I just find the ceramic magnet pickups used in EMG's too shrill ... hurts the ears.

I know it's very subjective, but does anybody else find that some pickups just sound awful?

  • From: Fixing myself a drink
  • Registered: 2015-05-16
  • Posts: 171

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

Alas, I do not know enough about the differences between the different types of humbuckers to be able to tell, so I'm of no help to you, Funster.

We can beat them just for one day
We can be heroes just for one day

RIP Bowie

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3 Reply by Tenement Funster (edited by Tenement Funster 2015-07-12 10:33:02)

  • From: Nova Scotia, Canada
  • Registered: 2013-01-20
  • Posts: 4,083

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

No worries, Tails ... I was just making an observation with my ears. Every pickup has its own "voice", and a person's preference will depend on their playing style, use of effects, type of amp, etc. I just find that most EMGs are too shrill sounding for my ears, and they stand out immediately when someone's playing a solo. In their own words:

EMG Pickups
"EMG Pickups started a revolution. Utilizing powerful ceramic magnets and close aperture coils, the tone was designed with detailed intensity, incredible amounts of high end cut and fluid sustain. Traditionally used in the bridge position, this pickup will make your leads slice right through even the densest mix. A distinctive look and sound, there's simply no mistaking EMG pickups."

  • From: Fixing myself a drink
  • Registered: 2015-05-16
  • Posts: 171

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

Any linkable examples of the annoying pickup in question?

We can beat them just for one day
We can be heroes just for one day

RIP Bowie

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  • From: Probably Somewhere
  • Registered: 2010-12-09
  • Posts: 2,446

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGGh7wxEN4E

Im a seymour duncan guy till i die.

  • From: Fixing myself a drink
  • Registered: 2015-05-16
  • Posts: 171

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

Baldguitardude wrote:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGGh7wxEN4E

Im a seymour duncan guy till i die.

Ah, grazie mille! I will listen to it when I get a chance to on my 'puter, rather than the iPad.

We can beat them just for one day
We can be heroes just for one day

RIP Bowie

Cocktailsfor2's Website

7 Reply by Tenement Funster (edited by Tenement Funster 2015-07-13 10:01:39)

  • From: Nova Scotia, Canada
  • Registered: 2013-01-20
  • Posts: 4,083

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

That's a great example, BGD ... thanks. The S-D Alnico II Pro's are one of my favorite pickups. I like a moderate output for the best clean sound, and would rather use amp settings, effects, etc. for higher gain needs. I also find that higher output PUPs seem to reduce the sustain ... must be the stronger magnets slowing down the string vibration sooner.

  • beamer
  • beamer
  • THE METALIZER. Naughty Rocker Boy.
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  • From: WASHINGTON ST
  • Registered: 2006-07-29
  • Posts: 2,811

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

IDK what EMGs  were in a Epi LP I played,, but it was like being 18 on 2 hits of viagra! EMGs that I have played have always been in the heavy side of music, so i can not actually be biased.  Ijust know that they freaking have teh power for heavy metal! LOL

“Find your own sound.  Dont be a second rateYngwie Malmsteen be a first rate you”

– George Lynch 2013 (Dokken, Lynchmob, KXM, Tooth & Nail etc....)
  • From: Nova Scotia, Canada
  • Registered: 2013-01-20
  • Posts: 4,083

Re: Screeching EMG Pickups

" like being 18 on 2 hits of viagra! "

Beamer, that analogy wins an award ... talk about vivid ... whew!