DESCRIPTION:
Here's a very simplistic comparison between EMG's 81/85 set and the JH (Hetset) one. I couldn't come up with anything worthwhile nor bothered to practice a bit so don't expect sizzling solos and impeccable performance; I'm not that good of a guitar player.

I'm using D.I. on an M-Audio Profire 610 with Amplitube Free for both sections (crunch and hi-gain).


My opinion on the Hetset is that, compared to the 81/85 in 18V, it has more gain (you can hear it clipping at points). I am not sure if it can even work in 18V (had a bad experience with 18V-ing a pair of two EMG 40TW-X with an AB where a pot would suddenly die) but at least according to EMG's instructions, you're supposed to operate it at 9V, with no direct or indirect instruction regarding an 18V operation (on this specific set).

One thing that struck me as rather odd is that in powerchords you don't really get the same gratification as with the 81/85 set, even with the 18V mod on the 81/85 set (which apparently reduces the inherent preamp compression), despite being a higher gain pickup. Another thing which I liked though, is that you can feel the harmonics flying a lot more compared to the 81/85 set, but methinks that the hetset is a bit muddy, even more muddy than another of my guitars where the 85 is on the bridge. What can I say, I've only had these for only a few hours; I'll need some more time before I pass judgment.

In the end (according to my experience so far at least), I am not sure if this is the set to go for if you are in for heavy stuff, where a set consisting of the traditional 81/85/60 pickups (especially with the 18V mod) will perform much better and will be a hell of a lot cheaper. Then again, even my humble Seymour Duncan 59/JB set is at least comparable, if not better than the JH set, offering much better flexibility which is what you'd expect from a passive pickup the class of Seymour Duncan. Try before you buy! The JH is expensive and is not necessarily better, just different!


Images are (c) by EMG Inc. http://www.emgpickups.com