Questions on Blackout AHB-2 / active PU in general

[Tobi09]

My Ibanez XP300 still has the built-in passive pickups (INF 3/4) installed and I am planning to put active's in, the AHB-2 in bridge position for sure, but still unsure what to put in neck position, probably the AHB-1.

Since I never used active pickups before, how does the power supply work, is one 9V battery enough to power both pickups?
From passive pickups I am used to use both at the same time, does this even make sense with the AHB-2 if you play distortion or would you better use only the AHB-2 and switch to the neck pickup if you want to play clean?

Is there anybody who has experience upgrading a XP300 to active?

[masta' c]

Yes, one 9V battery will power both pickups.

You will need to change out your pots (i.e. volume/tone controls) to the Blackouts/EMG type (25K ohm). When you buy a new Blackouts pickup, these are included.

You would absolutely be able to play in the middle position still with the AHB-1/AHB-2 pairing. Just like your current pickups, all switch positions will give you a different sound.

NOTE:
If you plan on buying an AHB-1n (neck), I've got a mint condition one for sale in the Trading Post section for $55 shipped if you're in the U.S.! If you buy the AHB-2 new, it will come with all the wiring you need to set up your guitar with both pickups!

[mustaine-who?]

Masta'c is correct. You basically gut your electronics cavity and install the hardware for the new actives. If you really want to make it easy...EMG sells solderless pots, output jack, and 3-way switch. So the whole thing is plug and play. Thats what I have in my TAT. I find it real tedious to solder the 3-way...and the pots especially.

[Tobi09]

Thanks, very helpful. And thanks for the offer, I would grab it in a sec for that price but unfortunately I am from europe.

The EMG plug&play wiring sounds compelling, but one kit costs 40€ that seems to be a bit too much when you consider that the pots are also included wit the SD pickups.