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Author Topic: So how good is the Apache set  (Read 11381 times)

Tonewolf

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So how good is the Apache set
« on: October 05, 2005, 07:38:54 PM »
I'm looking for a very dynamic set of pickups that have that vintage vibe and can growl when needed.  They have to sound great both pristine clean and with bluesy overdrive from the amp.

Please help me decide if this set is for me.

38thBeatle

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #1 on: October 05, 2005, 08:33:22 PM »
Welcome to the forum. I have Apaches fitted to my 1970's Strat. They replaced EMG's which in turn replaced the stock pups several years ago. They are, to me, classic Strat- they are wonderful clean and can bite if required.They are modelled on 1950's pups with slightly more on the bridge- better balance than standard. I'd got sick of the EMG's they had no character. I sought advice and Apaches were suggested. They have a great response- I can't recommend them highly enough. I've used the guitar alongside my other standard Strat with identical amp settings and it is then that the responsiveness of the Apaches makes itself apparent.Others will chip in I am sure-there are some clips in the players section too and I hope to post something myself soon.
Send three and fourpence we're going to a dance
BKP's: Apache, Country Boy, Slowhands.

Tonewolf

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Well can the give me a close Gilmour tone like....
« Reply #2 on: October 05, 2005, 08:48:48 PM »
Well can the give me a close Gilmour tone like in "Shine on you crazy Diamond" or "Comfortably Numb" Solo 1 and 2

Bad sounding pickups :shock: ME

PhilKing

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #3 on: October 05, 2005, 08:50:20 PM »
This is the set for you  :D

I have them on my 57 Strat and they are perfect for what I want (classic rock and blues).  The Irish Tours drive a lot more, which doesn't give quite the vintage tone.  I haven't heard Mother's Milk so I can't comment on them.
So many pickups, so little time

38thBeatle

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #4 on: October 05, 2005, 09:38:22 PM »
Like Phil says ( and he knows his onions does Phil) you will not regret getting them. From the sound of things they match exactly what you want. I did too, I wanted to get back to a good vintage tone and I got it. As soon as I can I will get my other Strat fitted with them though it is in the queue behind my Tele.
Send three and fourpence we're going to a dance
BKP's: Apache, Country Boy, Slowhands.

Tonewolf

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I will probably order the ... OK I will - but tell me more..
« Reply #5 on: October 05, 2005, 09:52:05 PM »
I am purchasing a 2002 American Stratocaster Deluxe HSS without the electronics or guard.  I'll have it by October 15th.  It has a rosewood board and a clearcoat ASH body.  I heard it played when it had the Vintage Noisless Pickups installed and it has lots of snap and pop to it.  I plan on installing a custom birdseye maple pickguard on it.  I'll be using candy apple red wood tint on the guard as a finish.

I'm going to use the switch from a Deluxe Players Strat as an "add bridge"  option to position 1 and 2 giving me all the "S1" options.  Yes, I could use a push-pull switch for this but I don't like the feel of the cheap potentiometers used in those assemblies.  

I'll post pictures and sound bytes when it's finished.  

Tim I'll let you know when I have the funds together to purchase the set.

Tim

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #6 on: October 06, 2005, 12:41:58 PM »
When you're ready!

I'd suggest either Apache of Mother's Milk..............the Apaches are warmer whereas the Mother's Milk have more aggression without losing the vintage vibe.
Tim
BKP - "Wound, made and played the traditional way --- by hand!" Amen.

HJM

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #7 on: October 06, 2005, 03:26:37 PM »
For modern Floyd tones, you might want to consider a Trilogy set. For the kind of sound Dave got at the Strat 50th concert, I'd go for the Apaches.

OT - didn't he use a custom made 24 fret guitar on Shine On - not a strat?? :?:
Apache,VHII,Emerald,Nailbomb,MiracleMan,StormyMonday,BlackDog,Trilogy,Mothersmilk,Sultans+Sinner

Tonewolf

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Tones I'm looking for
« Reply #8 on: October 06, 2005, 08:57:31 PM »
I'm looking for the tones from "Shine on you crazy Diamond"  and the second solo from "Comfortably Numb"

HJM

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #9 on: October 06, 2005, 09:46:42 PM »
If you're looking for the tone on the original albums, go for the apaches, if you like the tones of the live versions on Pulse, go for the Trilogies! :)
Apache,VHII,Emerald,Nailbomb,MiracleMan,StormyMonday,BlackDog,Trilogy,Mothersmilk,Sultans+Sinner

Tonewolf

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I like both orig and Pulse
« Reply #10 on: October 07, 2005, 03:30:10 AM »
I like both versions - now what?

HJM

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #11 on: October 07, 2005, 08:09:31 AM »
What I'm trying to get over is the originals had a more vintage tone, Dave used EMGs on the Division Bell tour. So you're hearing old passives, and modern actives. The Apaches are the most versatile,  they sound really clean and drive well. The trilogies have a more modern sound and are higher output, getting towards a more active modern tone imho. If you want your strat to sound pure classic strat, then buy the Apaches. Does that help?

Also, don't forget all those effects..... :lol:
Apache,VHII,Emerald,Nailbomb,MiracleMan,StormyMonday,BlackDog,Trilogy,Mothersmilk,Sultans+Sinner

Tonewolf

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Yup that helps
« Reply #12 on: October 07, 2005, 01:03:06 PM »
Yes, that helps - I just have to listen to Floyd all day and decide.  I'm really liking the sample of Mark Knopfler "Down by the Waterline" for the Apache Set.  I should look for some Trilogy and Mothers Milk Samples and really listen through a quality speaker set.  

I suppose I could always add mids to an Apache set by using a Pedal of my making using EMG Active circuits used in their DG20
that could be switched on to "edit" to a more modern tone and off for pure vintage.

Do you think that would work?

38thBeatle

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So how good is the Apache set
« Reply #13 on: October 07, 2005, 06:48:30 PM »
I don't know about your idea- all I'd say is that if youget the basics right, i.e. a decent Strat with gereat pickups, you stand every chance of getting what you want in terms of tone. I was playing last night  in a small club and I have my BKP Strat and my stock Strat. I broke a string on the former and switched to the latter. My stock Strat is great but the BKP one just has more dynamics- it gives you great cleans and you have a great basis for higher gain tones. Yes it is vintage style Strat but it still provides a good kick. I honestly don't think you'll be disappointed but in the slim chance that you are, Tim has a great return policy and  you'll find it mentioned several times in the forum.
Send three and fourpence we're going to a dance
BKP's: Apache, Country Boy, Slowhands.

Tonewolf

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Another question - RWRP or not?
« Reply #14 on: October 07, 2005, 09:12:44 PM »
Who has the RWRP middle and if not what does that sound like?