Jackson Pro DK2 with JB concerns..

[napalmdeath]

So, I bought a Pro DK2 for a killer price, and it has the '59/JB combo, and 5-way, which I prefer over the SL2 I had, due to split coil abilities, and the slimmer neck. It set up beautifully, and I even threw in noiseless HD springs.

However, you'd expect bright, cutting tone with the JB, but honestly, it sounds like the tone knob is on zero. It is dark, dark, dark, and borderline muddy. Oddly enough, in my thick beast Skolnick ESP, the JB in it is clear as a bell. So, I think the JB needs to go in the Jackson. I love the guitar, but could also return it..

Any suggestions on a bridge pickup with more clarity?? I was thinking going the TB-5, Duncan Custom. It's a big favorite of mine, but what else is out there?

 

[thenine]

Maybe it’s just that guitar. JB has always been bitey enough for me.

 

[WashburnX50]

Give the Custom a try. I find it fantastic. Slight mid scoop compared to the JB, but still cuts through. Nice top end too. Not too bright, and not super fizzy.

 

[skullfxr]

Remarkably odd, my MIJ DK2M was like that until I put the Gotoh trem in. That bridge woke the whole guitar up.

An hour ago I just wrapped up the last Gotoh trem install in my fifth MIJ Jackson. It really woke it up too. There is not a better way to spend $120 to upgrade a LFR guitar.

 

[napalmdeath]

Give the Custom a try. I find it fantastic. Slight mid scoop compared to the JB, but still cuts through. Nice top end too. Not too bright, and not super fizzy.

I think I will. However, I got it dialed in pretty good with the height, and with my Splawn cranked, it crushes. However, I know the Custom will be tighter!

 

[jsp]

Custom or Distortion.

 

[sytharnia1560]

it sounds to me like something is wrong with the electronics. Before looking into new pick ups I would undo the wiring and wire first the bridge pickup directly to the output jack and see if that helps..then report back and let us know

 

[Fiesta Red]

Are the pot values correct? 500K and not 250K?

 

[napalmdeath]

Are the pot values correct? 500K and not 250K?

Not sure how a new guitar would have incorrect pot values.

Needless to say, it sounds much, much better when I crank the amp! JB's definitely like volume.

However, a Duncan Custom is still going in it.

 

[Fiesta Red]

Are the pot values correct? 500K and not 250K?

Not sure how a new guitar would have incorrect pot values.

Needless to say, it sounds much, much better when I crank the amp! JB's definitely like volume.

However, a Duncan Custom is still going in it.

A slip up in QC? It's been known to happen.

 

[guitarbilly74]

Remarkably odd, my MIJ DK2M was like that until I put the Gotoh trem in. That bridge woke the whole guitar up.

An hour ago I just wrapped up the last Gotoh trem install in my fifth MIJ Jackson. It really woke it up too. There is not a better way to spend $120 to upgrade a LFR guitar.

This. I had the same exact experience with my MIJ DK2. Super dark until I installed a Gotoh Floyd. Sounds amazing now.

 

[Bardagh]

What about an LFR would make a guitar muddy? Are they made out of some substandard alloy or something?

 

[skullfxr]

What about an LFR would make a guitar muddy? Are they made out of some substandard alloy or something?

To a degree yes. And better machining. Much bigger block too. Just a better unit. I have 5 of them. Noticeable difference every time.

 

[napalmdeath]

What about an LFR would make a guitar muddy? Are they made out of some substandard alloy or something?

To a degree yes. And better machining. Much bigger block too. Just a better unit. I have 5 of them. Noticeable difference every time.

Damn, I've seen the Gotohs for $109.

 

[sytharnia1560]

Buy a new pick up ... buy a new floyd .. totally ignore the best advice you have been given so far

 

[skullfxr]

What about an LFR would make a guitar muddy? Are they made out of some substandard alloy or something?

To a degree yes. And better machining. Much bigger block too. Just a better unit. I have 5 of them. Noticeable difference every time.

Damn, I've seen the Gotohs for $109.

Yeah they are easy to find for under $120.