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Thread: K&K pickup difference

  1. #1
    Resonate globally Pete Jenner's Avatar
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    Default K&K pickup difference

    Can anyone tell me the difference (apart from price) between the K&K Twin Spot internal pickup and the K&K Mandolin Twin internal pickup? Is the cheaper one good for mandolins and mandolas?
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    Registered User Tavy's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I've always used the regular "generic" twin spot not the mandolin one - and it works fine for me - tends to be a touch heavy on the mid-range and light on the trebble, but nothing that can't be EQ'ed out. I couldn't tell you whether the official mandolin version is better in that regard. Sound sample in this thread: http://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/sh...mp-K-in-stereo

  4. #3
    Mandolin Botherer Shelagh Moore's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I also use the generic twin spot for most jobs, usually the normal one and sometimes the big twin for larger or stiffer tops. I haven't used the "mandolin" version.

  5. #4
    Resonate globally Pete Jenner's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    Thanks fellows.
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    Peter Jenner
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    Registered User Tom Haywood's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I've only installed their guitar spot pickups - in guitars. They all require a preamp for volume and some EQ adjustment. Have only heard good sounds from them.
    Tom

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    Gibson F5L Gibson A5L
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    Please post your findings. I am thinking about getting a K&K installed in a mandolin and am on the fence. R/
    I love hanging out with mandolin nerds . . . . . Thanks peeps ...

  8. #7
    Resonate globally Pete Jenner's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I just got this from K&K tech support.

    "The Twin Spot is a multi-use pickup designed for general application. The Mandolin Twin is specifically designed to get the best results in a mandolin. The Mandolin pickup is larger and uses a different construction technique which results in more output, less over-sensitivity and clearer tone then the Twin Spot (when used in a mandolin). The price difference reflects the differences in size and manufacturing process."
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    Resonate globally Pete Jenner's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I assume he means 'than' not 'then'.
    Last edited by Pete Jenner; Sep-22-2014 at 2:01pm.
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    coprolite mandroid's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    what did K&K say?
    writing about music
    is like dancing,
    about architecture

  11. #10
    Registered User Mandobart's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    Don't forget the JJB PPS-200, especially if price is one of your criteria. I've used the K&K mandolin fusion (internal p'up, external carpenter jack) and could not detect any difference in sound or quality. Just cost $150 more.

  12. #11
    Registered User Joey Anchors's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    Quote Originally Posted by Mandobart View Post
    Don't forget the JJB PPS-200, especially if price is one of your criteria. I've used the K&K mandolin fusion (internal p'up, external carpenter jack) and could not detect any difference in sound or quality. Just cost $150 more.
    Glad I read your post as I found the pickup I'll be using for my mando.. PPS-200 baby!
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  13. #12

    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I've used a JJB PPS-100 in a mandolin. Sounded just fine, as far as I could tell. No discernable difference between that and a K&K, although they were in different instruments and I did not try them in a challenging live settting.

  14. #13
    Resonate globally Pete Jenner's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    Quote Originally Posted by Mandobart View Post
    Don't forget the JJB PPS-200, especially if price is one of your criteria. I've used the K&K mandolin fusion (internal p'up, external carpenter jack) and could not detect any difference in sound or quality. Just cost $150 more.
    I looked into those a while back. This time I ordered 2 of the generic K&K ones but will probably try the PPS-200 sometime in the future.
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I use the K&K Mandolin Twin for mandolins for the reasons put forth by K&K. Dieter knows what he is talking about and gets right to the point if you ask technical questions. I trust them.

    If you want to shop to save a few dollars by all means suit yourself, but I will go for the quality nearly every time, and I have not been disappointed by the K&K line. I think for the money spent they are the best bang for the buck.

  16. #15
    Registered User Mandobart's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

    I've found Jessie at JJB to be very knowledgeable as well. As you say, suit yourself. At least I have actually tried the products from both companies and am able to choose based on direct experience with each. I've been gigging with five of my JJB-equipped instruments for the past three years and have had no problems to date.

  17. #16
    Registered User almeriastrings's Avatar
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    Default Re: K&K pickup difference

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