HN3 Characteristics?

[ztevie]

Hi!

I have ordered a Tom Anderson HN3 for the bridge in my Ibanez RG1550...
It will replace a X2N which is a bit too much and lack some dynamics I'm looking for...
I wanna ask: What can I expect from the HN3? I have never tried it in person, but the few descriptions and reviews I found all point to a pickup that should fit me pretty much perfect...
I thought about H3+ and HN3+ too, but the HN3 seem to have enough power for my taste.. Also, years of playing have tought me that higain pickups is not necessary to achieve a heavy tone out of the amp, but will rather sacrifice some of the dynamics and tone I want.

What I look for: A pickup that is clear and dynamic, still should have power and tight bass for those palm-muting metal riffs, but also can do classic/hard rock. I want it to be responsive and articulate. I use the neck PU(A Paf Pro) for soaring, warm solos, so it's mainly for rhytm stuff I'll use it.

What I DON'T want: Muddy bass and/or shrill, thin treble.

Hope some of you guys can give me a hint of what to expect :cool:

[pipedwho]

Welcome to the forum!

The HN3 is very good at doing what you describe. It isn't too bass heavy or with too much treble, and it does have a very good mid presence.

While still being articulate, it is however quite hot, so you may have to raise your neck pickup quite high and lower the HN3 to get the levels matched (unless you don't really care about neck/bridge level balance).

[ztevie]

Sounds nice! I look for dynamics, articulation and tightness.

I never had much of an issue levelling neck/bridge, since nowadays I play at home and not in live situations... But I guess it won't be hotter than the X2N anyway..? :D