EC400, need new pickups
 

So I'm getting a EC400 in a trade soon, and I already know I'm gonna replace the pickups (no EMG's, he threw those out long ago, it has epi stock pickups now). I don't want to put EMG's in it again, I'm looking for passives.

I'm more focused on a bridge pickup, I can replace the neck later (unless there is a nice set :) )

I want something that can handle gain similar to Devin Townsend, BtBam, Opeth, distorted Porcupine Tree, but isn't hot enough where I couldn't play classic rock like Black Sabbath or Deep Purple.

Current gear is in the sig, (stop me now if I need to upgrade my amps first).

I'm thinking of a D-activator for the bridge, would that help me accomplish my desired sound?

Thanks for helping out guys :)

I'd go for a Tone Zone and Air Norton !

Duncan SH-4, Pearly Gates
Dimarzio SD

I'd say Duncan Custom bridge, Jazz or '59 neck.

Check out the SD Custom. Maybe even a Custom 5.

I have a Custom in my H-301 right now. I'd say it'd be good for getting those tones.

D'activator sounds great with for that sort of stuff (though your amps may not be the best choices- none of them are really metal amps). definitely go for a pair too. they sound nice and clear without being quite as crisp sounding as actives on the cleans. they're pretty hot pickups, but they have a reasonably pleasant character to pull off the more classic sounding stuff.

I would also check out the dominion bridge unit with a breed in the neck. it's a little bit of a lower output set that gives you really nice and chunky rhythm tones with big fat lead tones. I really like the sound of the dominion because its super heavy without any of the "active" sound you're trying to avoid in the first place.

I'm working on trading or buying a used 6505 for my metal playing, just not sure how long it'll take.

I'm gonna look into SD custom, maybe a D-activator too. Might depend on which one I can get cheaper if they will both work for the tones I want :haha:

the 6505+ will help a tonne!

also, make sure you swap for better pots when you do the pickups. it'll cost maybe $30 for the lot and it will make a tremendous difference!