DKM2 pickups

[catzodellamarina]

I'm not happy with my DKM2 Duncan pickups. I use this guitar as my drop-D and metal axe. These pickups just don't have the bite and clarity of, say EMG's, which would be my first choice as replacements. I've had EMG's in the past and they are great for metal but I remember putting an 81 (KH kit) in my1st Jackson and it was too much. I had feedback probs and could only get 1 tone: chainsaw. I haven't had an 81 since (late 90's) and I was wondering if they have improved. I do like the 85's but I'd be willing to get an 81/85, like a Zakk kit. Anyone have suggestions for EMG's in my DKM2? I want higher output with clarity, bite, edge, but no excessive fb.

BTW - I don't remember what Duncans come stock on the DK2M's. I know it's 2 models. Shed some light for me.

[guitarsjb]

I've never tried on in a DK2, but I like DiMarzio X2N's for my RR's.

[QuantumRider]

BTW - I don't remember what Duncans come stock on the DK2M's. I know it's 2 models. Shed some light for me.

JB Bridge, Jazz Neck.

[DonP]

If your first Jackson was the same as the DK2M, the results with EMG's will likely be the same. EMG's are pretty consistant and don't change much if at all through the years. So the only changes would be with the guitar itself.

Are you sure the EMG's were wired correctly in that 1st guitar? Sounds like something not right. Did you use the EMG pots and caps?

I'm more of a passive pickup guy but I have 3 EMG loaded axes and they all sound good to me.

[catzodellamarina]

Brain fade

I got to thinking and I forgot that I DID have problem with the 81. Sorry my facts were incomplete. It's been a long time.
I had the KH kit professionally installed in a cheap Dinky RevPro. Those Made in India guitars sold by MF. It was my 1st Jackson and all I could afford back then. My tech guy said the pickup went microphonic and had to send it back to EMG for a warranty replacement. I had him put in a 85 to get me running again and he kept the new 81 when it came in. The 85 was perfect.

I'd take a chance on a 81/85 kit if someone here who has that setup in a DK2M could give me review.

[Conzo8]

I've got the 81/85 set in my Ke3 and its pretty awesome great metal tone and no problems with fb.

Also i just put a Bare knuckle Warpig in my Soloist Xl and that thing screams, everything is so tight. If money aint too much of a problem i'd look into them.

[DalyTek]

A lot of people are happier with the 81 in the neck and the 85 in the bridge.

[Nightbat]

Indeed

an 81 by itself, or fitted with another 81 or 60 neck p'up doesn't sound half bad, but combined with an 85 in the neck it's underpowered

[drago]

Also i just put a Bare knuckle Warpig in my Soloist Xl and that thing screams, everything is so tight. If money aint too much of a problem i'd look into them.

+1 for BKP

I have BKP Painkiller in my SL3 and I like it very much. Tight and crunchy.

I`ve heard a lot of praise for Warpigs. I`ll give it a shot in my next guitar for sure.