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Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup vs Seymour Duncan ASB2-5B Active Soapbar 5-String Bridge Pickup
The Blackouts for Bass 5N is engineered for aggressive metal and hard rock with deeper lows and expanded dynamic range, while the ASB2-5B Active Soapbar is a versatile bridge pickup optimized for articulate mids and modern hi-fi tone across funk, rock, and studio work. Choose Blackouts if you play drop-tuned heavy music; choose the ASB2-5B if you need a punchy, articulate bridge pickup for broader musical styles.
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Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup
Seymour Duncan ASB2-5B Active Soapbar 5-String Bridge Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup | Seymour Duncan ASB2-5B Active Soapbar 5-String Bridge Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $145.00 | $145.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Neck | Bridge |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup
- ✓ Voiced specifically for metal, punk, and aggressive tones with less EQ tweaking needed
- ✓ Deeper lows and cleaner highs with greater dynamic range than traditional active pickups
- ✓ Accommodates wider string spacing up to 3.10" for 5-string bass
Why choose Seymour Duncan ASB2-5B Active Soapbar 5-String Bridge Pickup
- ✓ Modern hi-fi tone with smooth, broad response works across funk, rock, progressive, and studio sessions
- ✓ Articulate mid-range with punchy attack and no harshness or hum
- ✓ Split-blade design delivers single-coil punch without electromagnetic hum interference
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either pickup as a bridge-only replacement?
The ASB2-5B is specifically designed as a bridge pickup for 5-string bass. The Blackouts for Bass 5N listed here is a neck pickup; Blackouts are available in both neck and bridge configurations but you must verify the specific model orientation.
Which pickup has better mid-range definition?
The ASB2-5B Active Soapbar is known for its articulate, pleasing mid-range with no harshness. The Blackouts for Bass 5N emphasizes cleaner highs and deeper lows with aggressive character, making it less focused on mid-range clarity.
Are both pickups direct replacements for standard soapbar routing?
Yes, both are the same size as Seymour Duncan Phase II soapbars and are direct replacements for EMG 35, 40, and 45 models, so they fit standard soapbar cavities.
Which is better for genres outside metal and hard rock?
The ASB2-5B is designed for funk, rock, progressive, and studio sessions with broad tonal flexibility. The Blackouts for Bass 5N is specifically voiced for metal, punk, and hard rock, making it less ideal for traditional jazz, country, or folk applications.