[Trepan]

Which one would sound better in an RG7321? pros/cons of each compared to each other? I searched but didn't see a thread directly related to these.

I'm going to replace the stock pickups at some point and can't decide what to get. I thought I wanted to get the d activators but I've seen some bad reviews of them. I've also seen some really positive reviews of the blackouts and that they don't need routing. I will be primarily playing metal but it would be nice to also be able to clean up a bit and play some lighter stuff if necessary.

One thing I guess that is different is that with d-activators I could do some coil tapping and various combinations of single or humbucker, whereas with the blackouts I think you can only have a pickup either on or off? That would limit the sound possibilities a bit I would think.

Thanks for your insight guys.. maybe I should just go with the blaze instead

[bmedeiros678]

I just posted the same question! I am so confused on which ones to get.

[zimbloth]

Oh guys, this is really an easy one. The Blackouts are better in every aspect imaginable.

Things they share in common:

1) Clarity
2) Output (though the Blackouts are much much hotter)
3) Balanced EQ

That's where the similarities end. The Blackouts sound sooo much better. They have loads more balls, character, bite, bass response, etc. The Blackouts have insane articulation but the highs don't get overly bright and peaky like the DAs do. They're warmer AND heavier than the DAs.

The main problem with the DAs is their lack of character. They are clear like I said, but they just have boring tone. It sounds like a completely neutral, characterless, bland pickup. The pickup can sound good through certain amps, but all in all I really don't recommend it. The Blackouts do everything the DAs do but much better.

Get the Blackouts, you won't be disappointed.

[ibznorange]

blackouts dude. the dactivators were designed to have active sound while curing all of the "active" problems inherrent in EMG's. Blackouts did the same, less sterile than the 81 (which imo is responsible for the "actives sound sterile" deal), the bridge sounds really good.
they are different from emg's though tonally.
you really should look at a pair in person, if thats an option

[bmedeiros678]

Thanks guys, looks like I am getting the DA's...........just kidding.

[7 Dying Trees]

Well, I'm going to be finding out what the DA neck sounds like, hope it's good Otherwise it's air norton time!

[TheMasterplan]

Interestingly enough I was wondering about this. Apparently I know a guy and talked to him about getting me some DA's. He told me it would be $100 for a neck and bridge with shipping which is well, fucking awesome for me. I've seen and heard a lot of sound test and I was pretty impressed but I'm one of those guys who always gets bit in the ass with buyer's remorse after the fact.