Hey Chad! EMGs are funny beasts, and everyone's opinions vary so much that I don't think there is a fair consensus on "how they sound". The most prevalent opinion is that they sound compressed, which is fair comment until you increase their supply voltages to 18v from 9v. The extra headroom opens up the dynamics a lot more and changes the character. I'm about to rewire my EXP build to supply 18v for the bridge and 9v to the neck on the basis that I like a bit of compression in my neck character, so it works to my advantage. I guess it's worth experimenting to see what works. FWIW, I usually use dual 81s or an 81 in the bridge and a 60 in the neck. Never been too into the 85s. The second most popular opinion on EMGs is that they sound "too hifi" which again can be a good or a bad thing. Either way, I like both actives and passives, but it does become a chore having to pop the pad button on my amp when I change between the two.
As for the rotary switch - as you've figured, you won't get as much use of one with EMGs as you would passives, as each coil is connected internally rather than being led out like most passives. The newer EMG TW pickups might be different in that respect, but i'm not 100%. Have you considered other viable control options, such as semi coil taps (where the connection between the coils of a humbucker is tapped to ground using a tone control) etc?
Hey prostheta cheers for the info. I don't think i have heard of those controls, is that like a blend pot sort of setup? Please explain?
Cheers.