Dimarzio Super Distortion pu's ?

[Tone Slinger]

Over the yrs, I've played guitars with these in them, but have never owned one, to where I could really play it through my gear to establish if I really like them. What do y'all think of them ? I Know lots of '70's era dudes put them in thier guitars, like Ace Frehley. Will they clean up, are they bright or dull ? Are the new ones the same as the old one's,etc ? Any info is appreciated, Thanks.

[jcmjmp]

I like 'em. I've got 1 from the 70's and one from the 90's. They sound pretty much the same to me.

They have a nice full sound and they really drive the amp's input. Compared to a low output T-Top, its like having an overdrive pedal between the guitar and the amp. Nice attack, the highs aren't too piercing but there plenty of them. Just be careful with the treble and presence controls on the amp.

They clean up nicely with my amps and respond to dynamics (soft/heavy picking) well. Definitely suited to hard rock and 80's British metal. On a trem equipped guitar, they retain a lot of the bass response. They're cheap enough that you can try 'em out without breaking the bank.

The one I got from the '70s that had to be potted or it would squeal in high gain, high volume settings.

[Tone Slinger]

Thanks for the info 'Bro, based on your description, I think I'll get one. On a dual hb'er Gibson style, what would go good in the neck posistion ? Maybe the Dimarzio paf or paf pro ?

[jcmjmp]

Thanks for the info 'Bro, based on your description, I think I'll get one. On a dual hb'er Gibson style, what would go good in the neck posistion ? Maybe the Dimarzio paf or paf pro ?

I combined my 70's super distortion with a 70's PAF on my flying V. The PAF is a real sweet pickup in the neck position. The PAF Pro is also an excellent choice. I actually prefer the sound of the PAF Pro in the neck of my '87 Jem to the sound of the PAF on the V. Not sure if its the guitar or the pickup though.

[killpop99]

try changing the magnet to A5, it sounds great.

[fivecoyote]

The SD is a great, classic-sounding pickup, especially in a Les Paul. BUT it is sort of a one-trick pony, and can sound a little harsh or a little flat because of the ceramic mag -- hence killpop's suggestion.

[SandovalPDV]

I agree the SD is somewhat of a one trick pony but I have had some success getting some really good low gain tones out of it. But, it definitely has some bite to it.

[Aquila Rosso]

If you go to Dimarzio.com and listen to the clips, I find that the good old Super Distorstion is their only pup that has a really distinctive familiar classic sound. I could pick it out blindfolded.

I love em.

[IloveMyMarshall]

try changing the magnet to A5, it sounds great.

Right on!! night and day with the A5 is outstanding nice highs mids and bass she has it all cut the volume back and she sounds great as well. Im hooked.. Only think I would suggest is playing with the pickup height....