I have been something of a pickup snob in the past, and since EMG’s were popular in the 80’s, I have always shyed away from them.

But since I have been shocked one too many times in venues that have dodgy wiring, I decided to install some EMGs in to a Warmoth Frankenstrat (it is almost impossible to get shocked using EMGs).

I have to say they sound great! Not vintage, very “Hi-Fi”. Using the EQ the guitar can sit back in a mix really well for rhythm, but also cut through when you solo. They a stupidly versitile, and make the band sound much more “produced” like we have a great sound guy on the board.

I would say they make a great choice for a no nonsence, do-everything, guitar.

As for a lack of soul, I think that is a matter of fingers and heart, rather than gear. Too many people buy into the guitar magazine idea of “perfect tone”, and forgetting to actually say anything. Why does everyone sound the same these days?

I’m not in love with the way they look, and they don’t sound like your father’s guitar, but my Frankenstrat is seeing a lot of action over many more expensive “desirable” guitars.

I’m not selling my passive guitars though!

Luke