I Play Metal

Drop tuning, high gain, brutal riffing?
Bridge: Seymour Duncan Invader or EMG 81
Neck: Seymour Duncan Jazz Model or EMG 85

Guitar: Schecter, ESP, Ibanez metal models
Jump to: Metal Pickups Section

I Play Blues & Rock

Vintage tone, touch sensitivity, natural breakup?
Bridge: Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates or '59
Neck: Seymour Duncan '59 or Jazz Model

Guitar: Les Paul, SG, ES-335 style
Jump to: Blues & Rock Section

I Play Jazz & Clean

Smooth articulate tone, chord clarity, low output?
Neck: Seymour Duncan Jazz Model or Seth Lover
Bridge: Seymour Duncan '59 or Pearly Gates

Guitar: Hollowbody, semi-hollow, clean applications
Jump to: Jazz & Clean Section

I Play 7/8/9 String

Extended range, djent, progressive metal?
Bridge: Seymour Duncan Nazgul or Blackouts 7-string
Neck: Seymour Duncan Sentient or Blackouts 7-string

Guitar: Ibanez RG7/8, Schecter 7/8 string
Jump to: Extended Range Section

I Play Stratocaster

Upgrading Strat single-coils for more output?
Bridge: Seymour Duncan SSL-5 or Hot Rails
Middle/Neck: SSL-5 or SSL-1 vintage

Guitar: Fender Stratocaster, Strat-style guitars
Jump to: Single-Coil Section

Versatile All-Around Player

Need pickups working across multiple genres?
Bridge: Seymour Duncan JB Model
Neck: Seymour Duncan Jazz Model or '59

Why: Most versatile combination worldwide
Jump to: Pairing Strategy

Extreme Metal (Death, Black, Grindcore)

Bridge: Seymour Duncan Invader (SH-8) or EMG 81 Active
Neck: Seymour Duncan Invader Neck or EMG 85 Active
Why: Maximum output for brutal riffing, tight bass prevents muddiness under extreme gain, aggressive midrange cuts through dense mixes
DCR: Invader 14.4k ceramic / EMG 81 active
Price: Invader $260-350 each, EMG 81/85 set $340-380
Most common upgrade: Schecter Hellraiser, ESP LTD EC-1000, Ibanez Iron Label

Invader delivers crushing passive output with three large ceramic magnets perfect for drop tuning (C-standard, B-standard, lower). EMG 81/85 active set provides zero noise and consistent output ideal for recording and high-gain live performance. We install more Invaders and EMG sets than any other metal pickups in Melbourne based on local metal community preferences. Pair with professional drop tuning setup optimizing action, intonation, and nut slots for low tunings.

Technical Metal (Prog, Djent, Metalcore)

Bridge: Seymour Duncan Distortion (SH-6) or Seymour Duncan Blackouts
Neck: Seymour Duncan Jazz Model or Blackouts Neck
Why: Clarity under gain for fast technical passages, note definition preventing blur at speed, balanced output for complex rhythm patterns
DCR: Distortion 13.8k ceramic / Blackouts active
Price: Distortion $250-350, Blackouts set $500-700
Most common upgrade: Ibanez RG/S series, Schecter C-1, ESP LTD MH series

Distortion pickup provides high output while maintaining harmonic content and note definition essential for technical playing. Blackouts active pickups offer EMG-style performance with slightly more organic character appealing to progressive metal players. Jazz Model neck prevents excessive output muddying lead tones while providing smooth articulation for solos and melodic passages.

Classic Metal & Hard Rock (Thrash, Traditional)

Bridge: Seymour Duncan JB Model (SH-4)
Neck: Seymour Duncan Jazz Model or '59 Model
Why: Versatile output suitable for clean through high-gain, coil-split capability adds single-coil tones, balanced frequency response works across classic metal styles
DCR: JB 16.4k Alnico V
Price: JB $250-350, Jazz/59 $250-350
Most common upgrade: Les Paul, SG, PRS SE, versatile metal guitars

JB Model represents most versatile metal pickup spanning thrash through modern metal while maintaining enough dynamics for clean passages. Coil-splitting adds single-coil clarity impossible from pure high-output designs. Most popular metal pickup combination worldwide due to versatility - we install more JB/Jazz sets than any other pairing across all genres.

Doom & Stoner Metal

Bridge: Seymour Duncan Custom (SH-5) or Distortion
Neck: Seymour Duncan '59 or Pearly Gates
Why: Thick midrange for heavy riffs, controlled bass preventing muddiness at high volume, vintage character for classic doom tone
DCR: Custom 14.4k Alnico V
Price: Custom $250-350
Guitar type: Les Paul, SG, Telecaster (Stoner rock), baritone guitars

Doom metal benefits from pickups balancing high output with vintage character. Custom pickup provides aggressive output while maintaining PAF-style warmth. Pair with lower tunings (C-standard, Drop B) and heavy gauge strings (12-60 or heavier) for crushing doom tone.

Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates (SH-PG1)

Output: Moderate-High (8.8k DCR)
Magnet: Alnico II
Best For: Texas blues, Southern rock, classic rock
Position: Bridge or neck
Price: $280-380

Named after Billy Gibbons' legendary 1959 Les Paul, Pearly Gates captures Texas blues power with enhanced output. Alnico II magnets provide warm smooth character with sparkling highs and thick midrange. The pickup delivers vintage PAF vibe with extra kick driving amplifiers harder than traditional low-output models. Perfect for blues players wanting authentic vintage tone without sacrificing modern performance. Works beautifully in both positions though particularly popular in bridge. Our most recommended blues pickup for players seeking Billy Gibbons/SRV style Texas blues tone.

Seymour Duncan '59 Model (SH-1)

Output: Moderate (8.13k DCR)
Magnet: Alnico V
Best For: Classic rock, blues, vintage tone
Position: Neck (most common), bridge for vintage output
Price: $250-350

The '59 faithfully recreates authentic Patent Applied For (PAF) humbucker tone from Gibson's golden era. Sweet harmonics, balanced frequency response, and touch-sensitive dynamics define character. Lower output provides natural tube amp breakup without excessive compression. Excels in neck position delivering smooth lead tones with singing sustain perfect for blues solos. Many players pair '59 neck with Pearly Gates or JB bridge creating versatile combination spanning vintage warmth to enhanced output.

Seymour Duncan Seth Lover (SH-55)

Output: Low-Moderate (7.8k DCR)
Magnet: Alnico II
Best For: Blues, classic rock, ultimate vintage tone
Position: Neck or bridge
Price: $280-350

Named after Seth Lover who invented the humbucker at Gibson, this pickup provides ultimate vintage PAF authenticity. Lower output than '59 emphasizes clarity and note definition favored by blues players wanting pure vintage character. Alnico II magnets create warm organic tone with exceptional touch sensitivity. Premium choice for blues players prioritizing vintage authenticity over modern performance characteristics.

Seymour Duncan JB Model (SH-4)

Output: High (16.4k DCR)
Magnet: Alnico V
Best For: Rock, hard rock, versatile applications
Position: Bridge primary
Price: $250-350

While typically considered a rock/metal pickup, JB works excellently for blues-rock players wanting more output than vintage models. Aggressive midrange punch with sparkling highs suits blues-rock, classic rock, and Southern rock styles. Coil-splitting capability provides usable single-coil tones when split creating versatility. Many blues-rock players pair JB bridge with '59 or Jazz neck creating perfect combination balancing vintage warmth with modern aggression.

Seymour Duncan Jazz Model (SH-2)

Output: Moderate (7.88k DCR)
Best Position: Neck (designed for jazz)
Price: $250-350

The Jazz Model delivers warm, articulate neck tone with exceptional clarity and note definition perfect for jazz, blues, and clean playing styles. Lower output provides clean headroom and dynamic response impossible from high-output models. Balanced frequency response ensures every note in complex chord voicings rings clearly without muddiness. Designed specifically for jazz though works excellently for any clean playing style requiring articulation. Most popular jazz pickup in our Melbourne shop based on sales to local jazz guitarists.

Seymour Duncan '59 Model (SH-1)

Output: Moderate (8.13k DCR)
Best Position: Neck or bridge
Price: $250-350

Vintage PAF tone with sweet harmonics and balanced response works beautifully for jazz when clarity and warmth both matter. Slightly higher output than Jazz Model provides more presence while maintaining clean character. Works in both positions making it versatile choice for players wanting vintage warmth with enough output to cut through acoustic instruments in ensemble playing.

Seymour Duncan Seth Lover (SH-55)

Output: Low-Moderate (7.8k DCR)
Best Position: Neck or bridge
Price: $280-350

Ultimate vintage PAF authenticity with exceptional clarity perfect for jazz players requiring pure clean tone. Lower output emphasizes note definition and harmonic content. Alnico II magnets create organic warmth without harshness. Premium choice for traditional jazz requiring authentic vintage character and maximum clean headroom.

Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro (APH-1)

Output: Low-Moderate
Best Position: Neck or bridge
Price: $280-380

Slash signature pickup though works excellently for jazz and clean applications. Alnico II magnets provide warm smooth character with singing sustain. Lower output suits players wanting vintage warmth with enough presence for lead playing. Works beautifully for jazz guitarists requiring smooth lead tone with organic character.

Seymour Duncan Nazgul/Sentient 7-String Set

Output: High (Nazgul bridge), Moderate (Sentient neck)
Magnet: Ceramic (Nazgul), Alnico V (Sentient)
Best For: Progressive metal, djent, modern metal
Configuration: 7-string humbucker set
Price: $500-700 per set

Nazgul bridge delivers aggressive output with tight low-end response perfect for djent and progressive metal. Ceramic magnets provide clarity preventing muddiness on low B string even under extreme gain. Sentient neck offers balanced output with smooth articulation for lead playing and melodic passages. Together they create perfect extended range combination balancing brutal rhythm tone with singing lead voice. Most popular 7-string pickup set in our Melbourne shop particularly among djent and progressive metal players. Works excellently with baritone scale lengths and drop tunings (Drop A, Drop G#, lower).

Seymour Duncan Blackouts 7-String Active Set

Output: Very High (Active)
Power: 9V battery
Best For: Modern metal, extreme metal, zero noise applications
Configuration: Active 7-string humbucker set
Price: $600-800 per set

Blackouts 7-string active pickups provide EMG-style performance with extreme output and zero noise perfect for high-gain 7-string applications. Active circuitry ensures consistent output across all seven strings preventing weak low B string common with passive designs. Tight focused tone with crushing gain suits modern metal, deathcore, and brutal technical metal. Requires 9V battery compartment routing if not present. Includes solderless installation system simplifying wiring for 7-string configurations.

Seymour Duncan Pegasus/Sentient 7-String Set

Output: Moderate-High
Magnet: Alnico V
Best For: Versatile 7-string applications, rock through metal
Configuration: 7-string humbucker set
Price: $600-750 per set

Pegasus bridge offers balanced output with clarity and articulation suitable for players needing versatility spanning clean through high-gain. Sentient neck provides smooth warm tone perfect for lead playing. Together they create versatile 7-string combination working across multiple genres from prog rock through modern metal. Alnico V magnets deliver organic character with natural dynamics responding to playing touch variations.

EMG 707/707TW 7-String Active

Output: Very High (Active)
Power: 9V battery
Best For: Metal, zero noise, consistent output
Configuration: Active 7-string single or set
Price: $240-280 per pickup

EMG 707 represents industry standard active 7-string pickup used by countless professional metal players. Zero noise performance perfect for recording and high-gain live applications. Consistent output across all seven strings prevents weak low B. EMG 707TW adds coil-tap capability providing single-coil tones when split. Available as individual pickups or sets allowing flexible configuration.

Passive Pickups

How They Work

Use magnetic coils generating signal through string vibration. No external power required. Output varies based on playing dynamics - soft touch produces lower output, hard attack produces higher output creating natural dynamic range.

Advantages

• Natural dynamics and touch sensitivity
• Organic tone variation responding to playing
• No battery required
• Wide tonal palette across output range
• Vintage character and warmth
• Volume knob roll-off creates natural clean tones
• Works with all amplifiers and pedals

Disadvantages

• Some electromagnetic interference (hum)
• Output varies with playing dynamics
• Potential for microphonic feedback
• Tone affected by cable length and capacitance

Best For

Blues, rock, jazz, versatile playing, players wanting expressive dynamics, vintage tone applications, touch-sensitive response

Popular Models

Seymour Duncan JB, '59, Invader, Distortion, Jazz Model, Pearly Gates - most pickups are passive

Active Pickups

How They Work

Use low-impedance coils with onboard preamp powered by 9V battery. Preamp boosts signal providing high output and low noise. Consistent output regardless of playing dynamics creating compressed character.

Advantages

• Zero electromagnetic noise and hum
• Extreme output for maximum gain
• Consistent tone regardless of playing dynamics
• Unaffected by cable length
• Tight focused bass response
• Clear articulation under high gain
• Perfect for recording (no noise floor)

Disadvantages

• Requires 9V battery replacement
• Less dynamic response (compressed)
• More sterile character (less organic)
• Limited tonal variation from volume knob
• Battery compartment routing if not present

Best For

Metal, extreme metal, high-gain applications, recording requiring zero noise, consistent output needs, players wanting maximum gain

Popular Models

EMG 81/85, EMG 57/66, Seymour Duncan Blackouts, Fishman Fluence

Humbuckers

Construction

Two coils wired out-of-phase canceling electromagnetic interference (hum). Higher output than single-coils due to dual coil design. Wider magnetic field coverage.

Tonal Characteristics

• Thick, powerful, full-bodied tone
• Strong midrange presence
• Smooth warm character
• High output driving amplifiers hard
• Zero hum or electromagnetic interference
• Compressed sustain

Best For

Rock, metal, hard rock, jazz, blues-rock, high-gain applications, players wanting thick powerful tone without noise

Common Guitars

Gibson Les Paul, SG, ES-335, PRS, Schecter, ESP, Ibanez (most metal/rock guitars)

Single-Coils

Construction

Single coil of wire wrapped around magnets. Simple design producing lower output than humbuckers. Susceptible to electromagnetic interference causing characteristic hum under certain conditions.

Tonal Characteristics

• Bright, articulate, chimey tone
• Clear treble sparkle
• Tight focused bass
• Lower output (vintage character)
• Enhanced harmonic content
• Classic twang and snap
• Some hum under high-gain or near transformers

Best For

Blues, country, funk, surf, classic rock, clean applications, vintage tone, players wanting bright articulate character

Common Guitars

Fender Stratocaster, Telecaster, most vintage Fender designs, some Ibanez and PRS models

Alnico II

Character: Warm, smooth, vintage
Output: Lower (softer magnetic pull)
Best For: Blues, jazz, vintage rock

Alnico II magnets provide warmest character with smooth organic tone. Lower magnetic strength creates less string pull allowing strings to vibrate freely producing enhanced dynamics and touch sensitivity. Compressed highs prevent harshness while warm midrange suits blues and jazz. Classic vintage PAF character.

Example: Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates, Seth Lover

Alnico III

Character: Lower output, chimey bright
Output: Lowest Alnico (very soft pull)
Best For: Specialty vintage applications

Weakest Alnico magnet producing lowest output with bright chimey character. Rare in modern pickups though some boutique manufacturers use Alnico III for specialty vintage recreations. Extremely touch-sensitive with maximum dynamics. Very specific application for players wanting lowest possible output and brightest tone.

Alnico IV

Character: Balanced vintage tone
Output: Moderate (between II and V)
Best For: Specialty vintage applications

Less common than Alnico II or V though some manufacturers use Alnico IV for specific vintage recreations. Bridges gap between Alnico II warmth and Alnico V presence. Balanced character with vintage vibe. Limited availability in mainstream pickups.

Alnico V - MOST COMMON

Character: Balanced, versatile, clear
Output: Moderate-High
Best For: Rock, blues, versatile applications

Most common magnet in pickups offering balanced character working across multiple genres. Stronger than Alnico II providing more output and presence while maintaining organic character. Clear articulation with balanced frequency response. Versatile enough for blues through rock applications. Industry standard for good reason.

Example: Seymour Duncan JB, '59, Jazz Model (most popular pickups)

Alnico VIII

Character: Strong, modern, punchy
Output: High (strongest Alnico)
Best For: Modern rock, metal, high output

Strongest Alnico magnet providing highest output while maintaining Alnico organic character. Punchy midrange with enhanced clarity and presence. Modern voicing suits contemporary rock and metal requiring higher output than traditional Alnico V without ceramic aggression. Less common than Alnico V though gaining popularity for modern applications.

Ceramic - METAL STANDARD

Character: Aggressive, tight, modern
Output: Very High (strongest magnets)
Best For: Metal, hard rock, high-gain

Ceramic magnets provide maximum output with tight focused bass response perfect for metal and high-gain applications. Aggressive midrange cuts through dense mixes. Less compression than Alnico creating faster attack and tighter feel. Modern voicing suits contemporary metal though lacks vintage warmth of Alnico designs. Metal standard.

Example: Seymour Duncan Invader, Distortion, Custom (metal pickups)

Vintage/Low Output (7-9k DCR)

Characteristics: Clean headroom, maximum dynamics, touch sensitivity, vintage PAF character, natural harmonics, minimum compression

Best For: Blues, jazz, clean applications, vintage rock, players using tube amplifier natural breakup, touch-sensitive playing styles

Amplifier Matching: Works beautifully with low-wattage tube amplifiers (5-22 watts) where lower output allows amplifier to contribute natural tube compression and harmonic content. High-wattage amplifiers stay cleaner requiring pedals for distortion.

Popular Models:
Seymour Duncan Jazz Model (7.88k) - smooth neck tone
Seymour Duncan Seth Lover (7.8k) - ultimate vintage PAF
Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro (7.5k-8.5k) - warm vintage
Seymour Duncan '59 Model (8.13k) - balanced PAF tone

These pickups excel when you want maximum clean headroom, volume knob interaction creating natural gain staging, and touch-sensitive response where soft picking produces lower output and hard attack produces higher output creating natural dynamics impossible from high-output compressed designs.

Moderate Output (9-12k DCR)

Characteristics: Balanced output, versatile applications, good dynamics, works clean through moderate gain, balanced compression

Best For: Rock, blues-rock, classic rock, versatile players, players wanting pickup working across multiple styles without extreme specialization

Amplifier Matching: Works with any amplifier type from clean through high-gain. Provides enough output to drive moderate gain without overwhelming clean channels. Most versatile output range for players using multiple amplifiers or varying gain levels.

Popular Models:
Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates (8.8k) - Texas blues power
Various vintage-output PAF designs

Sweet spot for versatility balancing vintage dynamics with enough output to drive amplifiers satisfyingly. Works clean for blues and jazz while providing enough gain for rock and classic rock applications without requiring extreme gain settings.

High Output (12-16k DCR)

Characteristics: Strong output, drives amplifiers hard, increased compression, enhanced sustain, reduced dynamics, modern voicing

Best For: Rock, hard rock, metal, high-gain applications, players wanting strong output without active electronics, sustained lead playing

Amplifier Matching: Drives any amplifier hard pushing preamp tubes into saturation. Works with both tube and solid-state amplifiers. High-wattage amplifiers benefit from extra output pushing master volume lower creating more manageable stage volumes.

Popular Models:
Seymour Duncan JB Model (16.4k Alnico V) - versatile high-output
Seymour Duncan Distortion (13.8k ceramic) - metal clarity
Seymour Duncan Invader (14.4k ceramic) - extreme metal

High-output passive pickups deliver strong signal driving amplifiers satisfyingly without active electronics' battery requirement. Increased compression enhances sustain perfect for lead playing though reduces dynamic range compared to vintage-output designs. Most popular output range for rock and metal players.

Extreme Output (16k+ DCR or Active)

Characteristics: Maximum output, extreme compression, minimal dynamics, tight focused bass, aggressive character, consistent response

Best For: Metal, extreme metal, brutal metal, players needing maximum gain and zero noise, recording applications requiring consistent output

Amplifier Matching: Designed for high-gain amplifiers. Pushes any amplifier into maximum saturation. Active pickups work with any amplifier though designed specifically for extreme gain applications where noise floor matters.

Popular Models:
EMG 81 (active) - metal standard
EMG 85 (active) - smooth metal neck
Seymour Duncan Blackouts (active) - EMG alternative
Fishman Fluence Modern (active) - modern voicing

Active pickups provide extreme output with zero noise perfect for brutal metal and recording. Consistent output regardless of playing dynamics creates compressed character with minimal touch sensitivity. Battery requirement (typically 9V) and less organic character compared to passive designs though metal players value extreme output and zero noise over vintage dynamics.

Schecter C-1, Hellraiser, Omen Series

Factory Pickups: Schecter Diamond series (mid-range models) or EMG (Hellraiser)
Upgrade Goal: Transform good platform guitar into exceptional instrument
Price Range: $1200-$2,500 guitars

Recommended Upgrades:

For Metal: Seymour Duncan Invader bridge/Jazz neck ($480-620 total) or EMG 81/85 active set ($340-380). Invader provides crushing passive output with tight bass perfect for drop tuning. EMG 81/85 delivers zero noise and extreme output ideal for brutal metal and recording.

For Versatility: Seymour Duncan JB bridge/Jazz neck ($460-600 total). Most popular upgrade combination providing versatility spanning clean through high-gain while maintaining coil-split capability for single-coil tones.

For Active Metal: Seymour Duncan Blackouts active set ($560-800. EMG alternative with slightly more organic character appealing to progressive metal players.

Schecter C-1 and Hellraiser guitars feature excellent construction with mahogany body, maple top (on higher models), set neck, and quality hardware. Pickup upgrade represents weakest link transformation. We install more pickups in Schecter guitars than any other brand in our Melbourne shop based on local metal community preferences. Combine with professional setup for complete optimization.

Schecter Reaper, Demon (Budget Models)

Price Range: $800-1200
Strategy: Bridge pickup only initially, add neck later if budget allows

Recommended: Seymour Duncan JB bridge only ($260-360 plus $120 installation = $380-480 total). Dramatically improves tone while maintaining affordable total investment. Stock neck pickup remains usable until budget allows Jazz Model or '59 neck upgrade later. This incremental approach provides immediate dramatic improvement without requiring complete set purchase initially.

Ibanez RG Series (RG350, RG421, RG series)

Factory Pickups: Quantum, Infinity series (budget to mid-range)
Recommended Upgrade: Seymour Duncan JB/Jazz, Distortion/Jazz, or DiMarzio D Activator

Ibanez RG series guitars feature basswood or mahogany bodies with wizard neck profiles perfect for shred and technical playing. Stock pickups represent weakest component particularly on sub-$1000 models. JB/Jazz combination provides versatility spanning clean through metal while Distortion/Jazz offers higher output for metal-focused players. DiMarzio D Activator popular alternative for players wanting tight modern tone without active electronics.

Ibanez Iron Label, Premium Series

Price Range: $2,200-$3,800
Recommended: Seymour Duncan Blackouts active or Bare Knuckle Aftermath/Painkiller

Higher-end Ibanez guitars warrant premium pickup investments. Blackouts active provide extreme output with zero noise perfect for modern metal. Bare Knuckle Aftermath or Painkiller (if available) offer boutique quality though higher pricing ($650-800 per set). These guitars justify premium pickup investment due to excellent platform quality.

Ibanez 7-String (RG7, RG8)

Recommended: Seymour Duncan Nazgul/Sentient or Blackouts 7-string active

Extended range Ibanez guitars require specialized 7/8-string pickups handling low strings without muddiness. Nazgul/Sentient provides progressive metal tone with tight bass and clear articulation. Blackouts 7-string active offers extreme output with zero noise perfect for djent and modern metal. See Extended Range section for complete details.

ESP LTD EC-1000, MH-1000 Series

Factory Pickups: EMG 81/85 (common), ESP-designed passive
Common Upgrade: Replace EMG with Seymour Duncan passive or upgrade budget passive pickups

Many ESP LTD 1000-series guitars come with EMG 81/85 active pickups. Some players want more organic passive character upgrading to Seymour Duncan JB/Jazz, Distortion/Jazz, or Invader/Jazz combinations. Lower-tier ESP guitars with budget passive pickups benefit enormously from Seymour Duncan or EMG upgrades transforming tone dramatically.

ESP LTD 10-Series, 200-Series (Budget)

Price Range: $900-1500
Recommended: EMG 81/85 active set or Seymour Duncan JB/Jazz

Budget ESP guitars feature solid construction with mediocre stock pickups. EMG 81/85 active set ($360-380) provides dramatic transformation with extreme output and zero noise. Seymour Duncan JB/Jazz ($460-600) offers versatile passive alternative with organic character. Either upgrade elevates budget ESP into professional-grade metal machine rivaling guitars costing substantially more.

Mexican Stratocaster, Player Series, Standard

Factory Pickups: Standard ceramic single-coils (thin tone)
Common Complaint: Weak output, thin tone, excessive treble

Recommended Upgrades:

For More Output (Blues/Rock): Seymour Duncan SSL-5 bridge ($180-240) with SSL-1 middle/neck ($180-240 each) or complete SSL-5 set all positions. SSL-5 provides hot Strat output driving amplifiers harder while maintaining classic Strat character.

For Metal/High-Gain: Seymour Duncan Hot Rails bridge ($180-240) with SSL-5 middle/neck. Hot Rails delivers humbucker power in single-coil form factor requiring no routing modification. Perfect for transforming Strat into metal machine without permanent modification.

For Vintage Tone: Seymour Duncan SSL-1 Vintage Staggered complete set ($540-720 for three pickups). Authentic vintage Strat tone with proper stagger and Alnico V magnets. Huge improvement over stock Mexican Strat pickups.

Mexican Stratocasters feature solid construction (alder body, maple neck) with weak stock pickups. Pickup upgrade represents most cost-effective improvement transforming thin weak tone into professional Stratocaster voice. Bridge pickup-only upgrade ($180-240 plus $120 installation) provides immediate dramatic improvement for budget-conscious players.

American Stratocaster, Ultra, Professional Series

Factory Pickups: V-Mod, Custom Shop pickups (high quality)
Upgrade Reason: Personal preference, specialized applications

American Stratocasters come with quality pickups though some players prefer specific Seymour Duncan voicing. SSL-5 for more output, Texas Special for Texas blues tone, or Hot Rails for metal conversion. Less dramatic improvement than Mexican Strat upgrade though still worthwhile for players wanting specific tonal characteristics unavailable from stock pickups.

Epiphone Les Paul, SG (Import Models)

Factory Pickups: Epiphone Alnico Classic, ProBucker (budget humbuckers)
Upgrade Goal: Transform import guitar into Gibson-quality tone

Recommended:

For Blues/Rock: Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates bridge/'59 neck ($460-600) or JB bridge/Jazz neck. Pearly Gates/'59 provides authentic Gibson PAF tone with Texas blues character. JB/Jazz offers more versatile modern output.

For Vintage Purist: Seymour Duncan '59 bridge and neck ($460-600). Authentic PAF tone throughout creating ultimate vintage Gibson voice.

For Metal: Seymour Duncan JB bridge/Jazz neck or Invader bridge/Jazz neck for extreme output.

Epiphone Les Paul and SG guitars feature mahogany construction with decent hardware. Stock pickups represent weakest component. Seymour Duncan upgrade transforms import guitars into instruments rivaling USA Gibson tone at fraction of price. Most cost-effective Gibson-style tone improvement available.

Gibson Les Paul, SG (USA Models)

Factory Pickups: Gibson 490R/498T, BurstBucker, various models
Upgrade Reason: Personal preference, specialized applications, vintage restoration

USA Gibson guitars come with quality pickups though some players prefer Seymour Duncan voicing. Pearly Gates for Texas blues, JB for rock/metal, '59 or Seth Lover for vintage PAF authenticity. Vintage Gibson guitars sometimes require pickup replacement due to degraded or altered originals - Seymour Duncan Antiquity series provides period-correct vintage tone maintaining guitar value.

JB Bridge / Jazz Neck - THE ULTIMATE PAIRING

Why Most Popular: Perfect balance, maximum versatility, proven combination
Price: $460-600 total for set
Best For: Players wanting one combination working across all genres

JB bridge (16.4k) provides aggressive output with sparkling highs and tight bass perfect for rock and metal rhythm. Jazz neck (7.88k) delivers smooth articulate tone with exceptional clarity for lead playing. Together they create most versatile combination worldwide spanning clean blues through death metal while maintaining distinct character in each position. Lower neck output prevents muddiness allowing lead tones to sing clearly without excessive compression. We install more JB/Jazz combinations than any other pairing in our Melbourne shop - it's the industry standard for good reason. Works on Les Paul, SG, PRS, Schecter, ESP, Ibanez, and virtually any humbucker-equipped guitar.

Pearly Gates Bridge / '59 Neck - Texas Blues Combination

Character: Vintage warmth, Texas blues power, classic rock
Price: $460-600 total
Best For: Blues, Southern rock, classic rock, vintage applications

Pearly Gates bridge (8.8k Alnico II) combines vintage PAF character with enhanced output perfect for Texas blues and Southern rock. '59 neck (8.13k Alnico V) provides authentic vintage PAF tone with sweet harmonics and balanced response. Together they deliver warm organic character throughout with enough output to drive amplifiers satisfyingly. Popular combination for blues and classic rock players wanting vintage authenticity with modern performance. Works beautifully on Les Paul, SG, and semi-hollow guitars.

Invader Bridge / Jazz Neck - Extreme Metal Pairing

Character: Crushing bridge output, smooth neck clarity
Price: $480-620 total
Best For: Death metal, brutal metal, drop tuning, extreme applications

Invader bridge (14.4k ceramic) delivers maximum passive output with tight bass perfect for drop tuning and brutal riffing. Jazz neck (7.88k) prevents excessive neck output from muddying lead tones while providing smooth articulation for solos. Lower neck output balances extreme bridge preventing overwhelming volume when switching positions. Most popular metal combination in our Melbourne shop for players wanting crushing passive output without active electronics. Works excellently on Schecter, ESP, Ibanez metal guitars particularly those used for drop tuning.

Distortion Bridge / Jazz Neck - Technical Metal Clarity

Character: High output with clarity, note definition at speed
Price: $470-610 total
Best For: Technical metal, prog metal, shred, fast playing

Distortion bridge (13.8k ceramic) provides high output while maintaining note definition essential for technical playing. Jazz neck balances output preventing muddy lead tones. Clarity under gain suits fast passages where note definition prevents blur at speed. Popular with progressive metal and shred players requiring articulation alongside output. Works on Ibanez RG, Schecter, ESP guitars used for technical styles.

EMG 81 Bridge / EMG 85 Neck - Active Metal Standard

Character: Extreme output, zero noise, consistent response
Price: $260-340 per set
Best For: Modern metal, recording, zero noise applications

EMG 81 bridge provides tight focused metal tone with extreme output and zero noise. EMG 85 neck offers slightly warmer character with smooth lead tone. Together they create classic active metal combination used by countless professional metal players. Consistent output regardless of playing dynamics creates compressed character perfect for brutal metal and recording applications where noise floor matters. Requires 9V battery compartment routing if not present. See our EMG guide for complete details.

'59 Bridge / '59 Neck - Vintage Matching Set

Character: Authentic PAF tone throughout, balanced output
Price: $460-600 total
Best For: Classic rock, blues, vintage purist applications

'59 Model bridge and neck (both 8.13k Alnico V) provide authentic vintage PAF tone with consistent character between positions. Balanced output creates smooth switching without volume jumps. Sweet harmonics and touch sensitivity throughout suit blues and classic rock players wanting vintage authenticity. Works beautifully on Les Paul, SG, ES-335 style guitars for players seeking ultimate vintage Gibson tone.

Pole Spacing - CRITICAL

Standard Spacing: 50mm (1.96 inches)
F-Spacing: 53mm (2.08 inches)
Critical Importance: Incorrect spacing causes weak outer string output

Use Standard (50mm) for: Tune-o-matic bridges, fixed bridges, Gibson-style guitars, PRS, most imports

Use F-Spacing (53mm) for: Floyd Rose tremolo, vintage Fender tremolo, Wilkinson tremolo, wider string spacing guitars

Most Seymour Duncan models available in both spacings. Verify your bridge type before ordering. Bring guitar to our Altona showroom for verification if uncertain.

Wiring Options

2-Conductor: Standard wiring only
4-Conductor: Enables coil-splitting, series-parallel, phase options
Recommendation: Always choose 4-conductor for future flexibility

Most modern Seymour Duncan pickups include 4-conductor wiring standard. Even if not immediately using coil-splitting, 4-conductor wiring preserves option for future modification without pickup replacement. Coil-splitting adds single-coil tones to humbuckers creating versatility impossible from 2-conductor wiring.

Routing Requirements

Humbucker Routes: 1.5 inches wide, 3.5 inches long
Single-Coil Routes: Strat/Tele specific dimensions
Critical: Verify routing before purchasing pickups

Humbuckers fit humbucker routes only - installing in single-coil routes requires routing modification. Hot Rails and stacked humbuckers fit standard Strat/Tele routes without modification providing humbucker tone in single-coil form factor. P90 pickups require specific P90 routing. Measure existing pickup cavity dimensions before ordering ensuring proper fit.

Active Pickup Requirements

Battery Compartment: Required for 9V battery
Wiring: Different from passive pickups
Installation: More complex than passive

Active pickups (EMG, Blackouts, Fishman Fluence) require 9V battery compartment. Some guitars include battery cavity, others require routing. EMG provides solderless installation system simplifying wiring though professional installation still recommended for reliable results. Battery life typically 1,000+ hours though keeping guitar plugged in drains battery - always unplug when not playing.