Fishman Fluence KSE model VS Devin Townsend

[the4thlast1]

I had a chance to compare the Fluence Killswitch Engage bridge to the Townsend bridge in the same guitar earlier today. I've had the KSE pickup for a while and really enjoy it, the guitar came stock with an EMG 81x and I def prefer the Fluence pickups. So far in this guitar I think the KSE model is staying although the Townsend model is great as well , I might swap one more time to be sure which one I prefer.

The differences I hear between the two in Voice 1 for high gain application is that the Townsend model is darker overall and more aggressive in the low mids , its a little fatter in the bass, possibly a bit thicker on higher notes for leads. Its smooth on the highs yet aggressive on the lows.

The KSE model is super tight and quick on the lowend , the Townsend model is also tight but once again has a bit of a thicker vibe. The KSE model has more upper mids and a somewhat bright tone. However its not harsh or annoying in any way , its a smooth sounding pickup yet cutting in a nice way, I think it would sit nicely in a mix. My style of playing is very similar to KSE type of stuff so it sounds and feels right at home to me.

So yeah I think both models are killer. Im really liking how Fishman has brought a fresh take to the active sound. I would be interested in trying some other models such as the classic and modern as well as the Wille Adler model.

 

[JerEvil]

I had a chance to compare the Fluence Killswitch Engage bridge to the Townsend bridge in the same guitar earlier today. I've had the KSE pickup for a while and really enjoy it, the guitar came stock with an EMG 81x and I def prefer the Fluence pickups. So far in this guitar I think the KSE model is staying although the Townsend model is great as well , I might swap one more time to be sure which one I prefer.

The differences I hear between the two in Voice 1 for high gain application is that the Townsend model is darker overall and more aggressive in the low mids , its a little fatter in the bass, possibly a bit thicker on higher notes for leads. Its smooth on the highs yet aggressive on the lows.

The KSE model is super tight and quick on the lowend , the Townsend model is also tight but once again has a bit of a thicker vibe. The KSE model has more upper mids and a somewhat bright tone. However its not harsh or annoying in any way , its a smooth sounding pickup yet cutting in a nice way, I think it would sit nicely in a mix. My style of playing is very similar to KSE type of stuff so it sounds and feels right at home to me.

So yeah I think both models are killer. Im really liking how Fishman has brought a fresh take to the active sound. I would be interested in trying some other models such as the classic and modern as well as the Wille Adler model.

Thanks for the comparison notes. These guys seem really committed to what they are doing. I want a pair of them to try in my Flying V, just not sure what set. Maybe the Classics.

 

[D-Rock]

Thanks for your analysis. It's a tough pick between those when you have very little user input to go on.

 

[lowmantotempole]

It all depends what amps your using. I too have both sets and have mostly similar descriptions. The KSE pickup definitely have a certain mid flavor that that band strives for. It totally doesn’t work with some amps. Both sets are great.

 

[the4thlast1]

It all depends what amps your using. I too have both sets and have mostly similar descriptions. The KSE pickup definitely have a certain mid flavor that that band strives for. It totally doesn’t work with some amps. Both sets are great.

Yeah the KSE pickup is "that sound" it's instant gratification if you are chasing that tone. Sounds killer through my 6505+ and my Fortin Bones. I bet it would also kill through a recto since it has a really tight low-end along with the upper mid cut.

Out of curiosity what amp did you not like it with ?

 

[Oblivion DC]

I had a chance to compare the Fluence Killswitch Engage bridge to the Townsend bridge in the same guitar earlier today. I've had the KSE pickup for a while and really enjoy it, the guitar came stock with an EMG 81x and I def prefer the Fluence pickups. So far in this guitar I think the KSE model is staying although the Townsend model is great as well , I might swap one more time to be sure which one I prefer.

The differences I hear between the two in Voice 1 for high gain application is that the Townsend model is darker overall and more aggressive in the low mids , its a little fatter in the bass, possibly a bit thicker on higher notes for leads. Its smooth on the highs yet aggressive on the lows.

The KSE model is super tight and quick on the lowend , the Townsend model is also tight but once again has a bit of a thicker vibe. The KSE model has more upper mids and a somewhat bright tone. However its not harsh or annoying in any way , its a smooth sounding pickup yet cutting in a nice way, I think it would sit nicely in a mix. My style of playing is very similar to KSE type of stuff so it sounds and feels right at home to me.

So yeah I think both models are killer. Im really liking how Fishman has brought a fresh take to the active sound. I would be interested in trying some other models such as the classic and modern as well as the Wille Adler model.

Thanks for the info. I’ve been wanting to try one of these but I didn’t know which way to go. I’m gonna give the KSE pup a try along with an Evertune bridge. Hopefully have it done before Christmas.
Always something new to try out!