Problem swapping Bartolini MK-1s for EMGs?

[Chris Gardiner]

Okay, so I got myself an Ibanez SR605 about a month or so ago. LOVE IT. I'd also tried out a new SRT805 which was very nice as well with EMG DCs installed. The only thing I disliked on the SRT over the SR was it was significantly heavier and the neck wasn't quite as fast.

Here's my issue:

I want to try and install EMGs into this Ibanez without compromising the feel. I also realize there's no 5 strings SR models I can find with EMGs already installed. I was looking at the 40J models but is the housing larger than the DCs and would 40Js or ANY EMG pickup for that matter fit into the Bartolini housing?

The other issue I"ve been hearing is because of the Bartolini EQ section it'd be a pain in the butt to install EMGs into without major work.

Any input?

 

[Hugh Jass]

EMG's will not fit. Plus, Switching to active EMG's creates some other problems.

Bartolini, Nordstrand and I believe SGD all make passive pickups that will be drop in replacements for the MK-1's.

 

[SGD Lutherie]

Bartolini, Nordstrand and I believe SGD all make passive pickups that will be drop in replacements for the MK-1's.

I make a Bart P2 size pickup, which is almost exactly the same size as an MK-1.

Mine have an edgier tone from the Barts, almost an active tone. More bottom than a DC though. They are kind of thin and brittle sounding.

Here's a comparison of US made Mks and my wide neos.

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