For nearly 30 years, the DiMarzio® X2N® has been the top choice for all-out power. In the last couple of years, we've developed totally new ways to combine power with clarity, which first resulted in the D Activator™. Now we bring you the D Activator-X™ Neck model. It features the same striking look as the X2N®, but we've adjusted the output and tuned the coils to different frequencies to create a powerful sound wide open with a surprisingly clean sound when the volume control is rolled down, even with extreme metal and high-gain amps. The Neck model is designed to produce a highly focussed attack centered on the upper mid range, with less magnet pull and output in order to balance perfectly with the Bridge model. The D Activator-X™ Neck model features universal spacing for both standard and F-spaced applications.
Tech Talk: As you can see from the specs, the D Activator-X™ Neck Model has a lot less output than the Bridge Model. What is often forgotten is that strings generate much more output voltage over the neck position because they vibrate more strongly there than over the bridge position, so the neck and bridge models actually balance very well with each other. The neck model also has a weaker magnetic field, so it doesn't interfere with sustain or intonation. Both models were primarily designed for heavy music, but they're also very good for clean, bright sounds in split and parallel modes.
Recommended For: Either position.
DiMarzio Tone Guide:
Treble, Middle, Bass, pretty much like on your amp. Scale is 0-10. Relationship between Treble, Middle & Bass is important too.
- Treble - 4.5
- Middle - 5.5
- Bass - 6.5
DiMarzio Output (mv) Guide:
The higher the number, the more power you get. Humbuckers (generally):
200mv "classic"
300mv "punchy"
400mv "hot"
*Full-Size Humbuckers are available in Standard & "F"spacing. Pickup size is the same, but the polepieces are set further apart on F versions. Measure the E to E string spacing over each pickup. 48mm takes Standard, 51mm takes F-spaced