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18v mod.
This. I'd also try swapping the EMG's positions and have the 85 in the bridge and 81 in the neck. I've never been a huge fan of EMG's but I really enjoyed the 18V modded 85 I had in the bridge position of one of my guitars for a while.
Are there any specific bands or sounds you're going for? Heavy and articulate is pretty broad...What's your rig like?
A couple of passive sets I've used and enjoy are
-BKP C-Pig bridge/Liquifire neck
-Dimarzio Titan bridge/Liquifire neck
-D-Activator set (or with an LF or Air Norton neck)
They make the Titan in regular spacing. There are some up on eBay or you could go through Dimarzio directly or fill out an order form from the Axe Palace.
Besides, even if they weren't available in Regular spacing, the difference between using a 50mm pickup and 53mm is negligible at best. It makes absolutely no difference on the sound and can hardly be seen anyway.
I think it's more of a fitting in issue. If it was the other way around it wouldn't be an issue.
But if they do then that's great. I am now leaning more towards the 18v mod honestly. I really miss the dynamics and more "earthy" feel of the 58/06 pickups I had on my PRS McCarty.
Guys! Thanks for the help. Really appreciate it. Now I just gotta pull the trigger on something haha..
EDIT: I also found out that for passive 500k pots I will need to enlarge the holes.. No thanks![]()
You'll only need to do that if you choose US spec pots (CTS, Bourns). Alphas and several no-brand pots go right in without modification.