I have 2 guitars with EMG's ( 89 in one and 81 in the other)and 2 with passives (WCR Iron Man in one, Manlius Full Range in the other). I like both types equally.
Which Blackout? I hate the AHB1 and AHB2. I've just picked up a AHB3 EMTY to check out. I've been told its super tight, like a EMG 81(which I actually like), but thicker and more output. An Invader will sludge it up for sure. waaayyy more than a X2N.
Nathan, if you like the Yamaha shredders, you should really try and find the Ty Tabor ( of Kings X ) model. One of if not the best Yamaha I've ever played.
I'm going to see them tonight. And like you, as soon as I saw Joe Perry, low strapped Bich, and cigarette dangling from his lips, I knew I wanted to play guitar, he just looked COOL. And as soon as I saw Angus Young... forget about it, I was hooked!