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Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup vs Seymour Duncan ASB2-5N Active Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup

Both are high-output active 5-string neck pickups for the same EMG 40 cavity, but the ASB-BO-5N (Blackouts) emphasizes articulate mids with a presence-focused 8.0 kHz peak, while the ASB2-5N prioritizes aggressive single-coil punch with split-blade balance. Choose the Blackouts for studio precision and controlled tone shaping; choose the ASB2-5N for aggressive, punchy live performance and fast bass lines.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup

$145.00
View Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup

Seymour Duncan ASB2-5N Active Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup

$145.00
View Seymour Duncan ASB2-5N Active Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup

Specs side by side

Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck PickupSeymour Duncan ASB2-5N Active Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup
Price$145.00$145.00
BrandSeymour DuncanSeymour Duncan
Pickup TypeNeckNeck
ConditionNewNew

Why choose Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-5N Blackouts For Bass 5-String Neck Pickup

  • Dual-blade design ensures balanced response across full 5-string width
  • 8.0 kHz resonant peak emphasizes definition and midrange clarity
  • Preset EQ shaping (9/5/9) reduces need for external tone adjustments
  • Ceramic bar magnet delivers characteristic Blackouts high-output tone

Why choose Seymour Duncan ASB2-5N Active Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup

  • Split-blade construction specifically voiced for aggressive single-coil punch
  • Onboard active preamp gives neck position bridge-like authority and cut
  • Includes mounting hardware and logo covers for streamlined installation
  • Approximately 1,000 hours continuous battery life per set
Bottom line: Choose the ASB-BO-5N Blackouts if you prioritize articulate mids, studio-ready tone control, and versatile funk/slap work with a presence-focused character. Choose the ASB2-5N if you want aggressive punch, single-coil attitude without hum, and maximum cut for complex, fast-moving bass lines in live or progressive settings.

Frequently asked questions

What's the main tonal difference between these two pickups?

The ASB-BO-5N emphasizes articulate mids with an 8.0 kHz presence peak and preset EQ shaping, delivering a balanced, controlled tone ideal for studio clarity. The ASB2-5N prioritizes aggressive single-coil punch with split-blade voicing, providing more cut and authority for live performance and fast bass lines.

Are both pickups compatible with my bass?

Yes, both are direct replacements for EMG 40-sized soapbar cavities and use two-conductor wiring. Both accommodate modern 5-string neck widths and include necessary mounting hardware.

Which is better for slap bass and funk?

The ASB-BO-5N is explicitly designed for slap and funk with its 8.0 kHz presence peak emphasizing transient definition. The ASB2-5N suits funk as well but leans more toward aggressive punch, making it better for players who prioritize cutting through dense mixes on fast, complex lines.

Do both pickups require batteries?

Yes, both use active electronics with onboard preamps. The ASB2-5N is rated for approximately 1,000 continuous hours of battery life per set; battery life specifications for the ASB-BO-5N are not provided in the available data.

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