When it comes to guitar pickups, two brands stand out as industry leaders: Seymour Duncan and EMG. Both companies have a long history of producing high-quality pickups that have shaped the sound of countless guitarists across various genres. This article will provide a detailed comparison of Seymour Duncan and EMG pickups, exploring their similarities, differences, and unique features to help guitarists make an informed decision.
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Company Backgrounds
Seymour Duncan
Seymour Duncan was founded in 1976 by Seymour W. Duncan and his wife Cathy Carter Duncan. Seymour’s journey in pickup making began in the 1960s when he started rewinding pickups for famous guitarists like Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page. This experience laid the foundation for what would become one of the most respected pickup manufacturers in the industry.
Seymour Duncan is known for its wide range of passive pickups, covering everything from vintage-style single-coils to high-output humbuckers. The company has also ventured into active pickup designs, though they are primarily recognized for their passive offerings.
EMG
EMG (Electro-Magnetic Generator) was founded in 1976 by Rob Turner. The company initially focused on replacement pickups for Fender basses but quickly expanded into guitar pickups. EMG is credited with popularizing active pickups in the 1980s, revolutionizing the sound of metal and hard rock guitar.
While EMG is best known for its active pickups, the company also produces passive pickups and a range of preamp systems for both guitar and bass.
Pickup Types and Technologies
Seymour Duncan
Seymour Duncan offers an extensive range of pickup types:
1. Passive Humbuckers: From vintage-inspired PAF-style pickups to high-output models for metal and hard rock.
2. Single-coils: Ranging from traditional Strat and Tele-style pickups to more specialized designs.
3. P90s: Both traditional and modernized versions of this classic pickup type.
4. Active Humbuckers: The Blackouts series, designed to compete with EMG’s active offerings.
5. Specialized Pickups: Unique designs like the Tripleshot switching system and the Mag-Mic hybrid acoustic pickup.
Seymour Duncan’s approach to pickup design often involves recreating and refining classic tones while also pushing the boundaries with innovative designs. They use a variety of magnet types (Alnico II, III, IV, V, and ceramic) and winding techniques to achieve specific tonal characteristics.
EMG
EMG’s lineup focuses primarily on active pickups but also includes some passive options:
1. Active Humbuckers: The iconic 81/85 set and various other models designed for different tonal needs.
2. Active Single-coils: Models like the SA and SV series.
3. Passive Humbuckers: The H series, offering EMG’s take on traditional passive pickup designs.
4. Specialized Pickups: Multi-voice pickups like the 89 series and acoustic pickup systems.
EMG’s active pickups use preamp circuits powered by a 9V battery to boost the signal and provide a high output with low noise. This technology allows for a consistent tone regardless of cable length and provides excellent clarity and articulation, especially with high-gain amplification.
Tonal Characteristics
Seymour Duncan
Seymour Duncan pickups are known for their dynamic response and ability to capture the nuances of a player’s technique. The tonal characteristics vary widely across their range, but some general traits include:
1. Vintage-style pickups: Warm, open, and dynamic with a focus on midrange and harmonic richness.
2. Modern passive humbuckers: Tight low-end, prominent midrange, and crisp highs, ideal for rock and metal.
3. Single-coils: Bright, spanky tones with excellent clarity and definition.
4. Blackouts active humbuckers: High output with enhanced bass response and midrange compared to EMG’s offerings.
Seymour Duncan pickups often allow more of the guitar’s natural tone to come through, making them popular among players who value organic, responsive sounds.
EMG
EMG pickups, particularly their active models, are known for their high output, low noise, and consistent tone. Common characteristics include:
1. Active humbuckers: Tight, focused sound with strong bass, scooped mids, and crisp highs. Excellent for high-gain tones and lead playing.
2. Active single-coils: Noiseless operation with enhanced output and sustain compared to traditional single-coils.
3. Passive humbuckers: Warmer and more organic than their active counterparts, but still with EMG’s signature clarity.
EMG pickups tend to compress the signal more than passive pickups, resulting in a more consistent, “hi-fi” sound that cuts through dense mixes. This characteristic makes them popular in metal and other high-gain genres.
Genre Suitability
Seymour Duncan
Seymour Duncan’s diverse lineup caters to virtually all genres:
1. Blues and Classic Rock: Vintage-style humbuckers and single-coils excel in these genres, providing warm, expressive tones.
2. Jazz: The Jazz model humbucker and certain single-coil designs are popular among jazz guitarists.
3. Country: Twangy single-coils and P90s are ideal for country styles.
4. Hard Rock and Metal: High-output passive humbuckers like the JB and Distortion models are staples in these genres.
5. Modern Metal: The Blackouts series competes directly with EMG in this space.
6. Alternative and Indie: Medium-output humbuckers and P90s offer versatility for these diverse genres.
EMG
While EMG pickups can be used in various genres, they are particularly associated with:
1. Metal: The EMG 81/85 set is iconic in thrash, death metal, and other extreme subgenres.
2. Hard Rock: Active humbuckers provide the high output and clarity needed for modern rock tones.
3. Pop and R&B: Active single-coils offer noise-free operation and enhanced sustain for clean and lightly overdriven tones.
4. Fusion: Some jazz fusion players appreciate the clarity and consistency of EMG’s active pickups.
5. Progressive Rock/Metal: The articulation and high output of EMG pickups suit the complex arrangements in prog music.
Installation and Maintenance
Seymour Duncan
Most Seymour Duncan pickups are passive and require no additional power source. Installation is straightforward for those familiar with basic soldering:
1. Standard passive pickups can be direct replacements for existing pickups in most guitars.
2. Some models may require minor routing or modification to fit properly.
3. The Blackouts active series requires a battery and additional wiring, similar to EMG installations.
4. Seymour Duncan provides detailed wiring diagrams for various pickup configurations.
Maintenance for passive pickups is minimal, typically only requiring occasional cleaning.
EMG
EMG’s active pickups require a more involved installation process:
1. A 9V battery must be installed in the guitar, usually in a dedicated compartment.
2. EMG uses a solderless installation system with quick-connect cables, making it easier for those uncomfortable with soldering.
3. Some guitars may need minor modifications to accommodate the battery and additional wiring.
4. EMG provides comprehensive installation guides and wiring diagrams.
Maintenance for EMG pickups includes periodic battery replacement (typically every 3000 hours of play time) and occasional cleaning.
Price Range and Value
Seymour Duncan
Seymour Duncan offers pickups across a wide price range:
1. Entry-level passive pickups start around $60-$80 per pickup.
2. Mid-range options, including many popular models, fall in the $80-$120 range.
3. High-end and specialized pickups can cost $150-$300 or more per pickup.
4. The Blackouts active series is priced competitively with EMG’s offerings.
Seymour Duncan is generally considered to offer excellent value, with many professional-grade pickups available at moderate prices.
EMG
EMG’s pricing is relatively consistent across their range:
1. Most active pickup models are priced between $90-$130 per pickup.
2. Signature models and specialized pickups may cost up to $200 or more.
3. Passive EMG pickups are typically priced similarly to their active counterparts.
4. Complete installation kits, including all necessary hardware, are available for a premium.
While EMG pickups are generally more expensive than many passive options, their consistent quality and unique tonal characteristics justify the price for many players.
Artist Associations
Seymour Duncan
Seymour Duncan has been used by countless influential guitarists, including:
1. Angus Young (AC/DC)
2. Eddie Van Halen (early career)
3. David Gilmour (Pink Floyd)
4. Slash (Guns N’ Roses)
5. Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits)
6. Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains)
7. Rivers Cuomo (Weezer)
EMG
EMG’s artist roster is particularly strong in the metal and hard rock genres:
1. James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett (Metallica)
2. Zakk Wylde (Ozzy Osbourne, Black Label Society)
3. Kerry King (Slayer)
4. David Gilmour (Pink Floyd, later career)
5. Steve Lukather (Toto)
6. Yngwie Malmsteen
7. Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine)
Innovation and Future Developments
Seymour Duncan
Seymour Duncan continues to innovate in several areas:
1. Expanding their active pickup offerings to compete with EMG.
2. Developing new passive designs that push the boundaries of traditional pickup technology.
3. Exploring hybrid pickup systems that combine multiple pickup types.
4. Refining their manufacturing processes to improve consistency and quality.
EMG
EMG’s recent innovations include:
1. The X-Series, which offers extended frequency response and dynamic range.
2. Developing new active preamp designs for enhanced tonal flexibility.
3. Expanding their passive pickup line to cater to players seeking more traditional tones.
4. Exploring new materials and winding techniques to refine their signature sound.
Conclusion
Both Seymour Duncan and EMG offer high-quality pickups that cater to different playing styles and tonal preferences. Seymour Duncan’s strength lies in its vast range of passive pickups that cover nearly every genre and playing style, with a focus on organic, dynamic tones. EMG, on the other hand, excels in producing high-output active pickups that deliver consistent, clear tones ideal for high-gain and modern music styles.
Ultimately, the choice between Seymour Duncan and EMG comes down to personal preference, playing style, and the specific sound you’re trying to achieve. Many guitarists find that having both brands in their arsenal provides the most versatility. Regardless of which brand you choose, both Seymour Duncan and EMG have earned their reputations as top-tier pickup manufacturers, and either can be an excellent choice for discerning guitarists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mix Seymour Duncan and EMG pickups in the same guitar?
While it’s technically possible to mix Seymour Duncan and EMG pickups in the same guitar, it’s generally not recommended due to the differences in output levels and tonal characteristics. Active and passive pickups require different wiring setups, which can complicate the installation. If you do decide to mix brands, it’s best to stick with either all passive or all active pickups for the most consistent results.
How do I know if Seymour Duncan or EMG pickups are right for me?
The best way to determine which brand is right for you is to try both in person if possible. Consider the genres you play, your preferred tonal characteristics, and whether you value organic, dynamic response (typically associated with Seymour Duncan) or consistent, high-output performance (often associated with EMG). Reading reviews, watching demo videos, and consulting with experienced guitarists can also help inform your decision.
Are EMG pickups only for metal and high-gain styles?
While EMG pickups are popular in metal and high-gain genres, they are versatile enough for many styles of music. Their active design provides excellent clarity and note definition, which can be beneficial in clean and low-gain settings as well. Many players in genres like fusion, prog rock, and even pop use EMG pickups for their consistent tone and noise-free operation. However, if you prefer a more traditional, vintage-style tone, Seymour Duncan’s passive offerings might be more suitable.