Seymour Duncan SH-1 '59

Pickup features: passive humbucker
Impedence or other specs: two conductor

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone Les Paul Custom
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Stock high-output humbuckers
Other pickups on guitar: '59 Bridge in bridge, '59 Neck in neck
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s): blues, classic rock
Reason for pickup change: I love this guitar. For an Epiphone, it played great, rang like a Les Paul is supposed to when unplugged, and just felt wonderful for me. However, when I plugged in, the pickups were always harsh, ALWAYS distorted (which sounded more like static), and were just simply not musical

Perceived output level: These are definitely hotter than my Texas Special single coils, and seem comparable to the modern Gibson humbuckers (although the sound is different). Also, they are slightly hotter than the standard Epiphone humbuckers (my old high-output versions not withstanding).
Tone: These pickups, when played either through my old Crate 20-watt tube amp or my Fender Bronco solid-state practice amp, are very, very clear. Even when the amp is turned up and on a short-scale guitar, every note in a big chord rings clearly and individually. The balance is fantastic, and these pickups are very sensitive to the nuances of picking and fretting technique. These allow me to personalize my playing immensely
Sonic evaluation: I mostly play clean, but will often use a mild, bluesy distortion. The amps are listed above.
For the clean tones, these pickups ring like a bell. The neck pickup can be very full-bodied, even jazzy when turned up. If I roll a little volume off of it, it gives a great rhythm strumming sound (think Creedence), but with more body and musicality. The bridge pickup gets "spankier" without losing any of the tonal fullness of the neck pickup. I definitely love using that sound for a jumpy, Chicago-blues type sound. When both pickups are selected, I feel like I'm playing B.B. King's guitar, especially when played through a tube amp.
Distorted, these pickups definitley deliver that vintage, Clapton-era "woman tone." Wow. In the neck position, with a little bit of distortion and mild volume on my tube amp, I can get very close to Clapton's "Hideaway" or "All Your Love (I Miss Loving)" tone.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I think the positives are documented well above. As to unsuitable uses, I don't feel like I can get a great metal tone, but as I very rarely play those heavier styles, I may not know how to get those sounds.

Comments: I would definitely buy these pickups again.
I've answered most of the other questions. I did do a LOT of research into these pickups, and looked at these, SD "Pearly Gates," Gibson "Classic '57s", and some Dimarzios. The Gibson "Classics" were close, but were slightly bassier and a lot pricier.

Pickup features: Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Les Paul Standard Goldtop
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Seymour Duncan JB
Other pickups on guitar: Stock Neck
Artists using this pickup: A Whole Shit Load
You musical style(s): Rock, Heavy Metal
Reason for pickup change: The JB was far to nasal and middy, it was also far to hot, I couldn't get within 20' of any of my amps without unpleasant microphonics... even potting the pickup didn't help.

Perceived output level: Slightly less than the JB
Tone: The tone is sweet, nice smooth highs and ample smooth bass. Mids are never overbearing.
Sonic evaluation: Used through several amps, crate VC30, Garnet r90 through Marshall 1960 4x12, and a Yamaha DG-60. I've never played so much in my life... the JB is a good pickup but the '59 is so much better in my opinion, it is better balanced and far more suitable for a variety of music, My LP has never sounded so good, it literaly sings.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I enjoy metal and also classic rock, while not a super hot pickup, all of my amps have enough gain, and the ones that don't get a pedal.

Comments: This pickup has ended my tone quest... therefor it gets a 10, I would buy another, and if it were stolen I'd hunt down the guy who took it and feed him his nuts for lunch.

Pickup features: Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: not positive about, 8K

Model of guitar or bass: 1988 Kramer Baretta, American series
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Generic pickup installed by previous owner
Other pickups on guitar: none
Artists using this pickup: Eddie Van Halen, (his 5150 Custom Kramer has a 59')
You musical style(s): Classic Rock, Queen, van halen, Rush, Pink Floyd
Reason for pickup change: Old P/U lacked clarity and presence. Overdriven tones were
very congested

Perceived output level: Mild output, much less than my Duncan Distortion, screamin deamon, or dimarzio Tone Zone. Slightly less than the Stock Schaller PAFs in my other Kramer guitars, Slightly less than my EMG 89'. Similar output with the Korean made Duncan Designed pickups in my Hamer Duo-tone.
Tone: Balanced mid and Bass, little low on the trebble.
Sonic evaluation: PLay through a 50 watt carvin tube amp which pumps a 5150 4x12 cab. I have a BOSS DD-5 in the effects loop and an old MXR phase 90. The 59 is mounted directly to the basswood body of my 88' Kramer baretta, no pickup rings or springs. Its mounted at an angle, so the low-E string is picked up further towards the neck.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Perfect match for my style, I can nail alex lifesons mid-80's tones exactly. Its not a high output gain monster, though so metallica and speed metal are a little out of its league. However, with a good stompbox with tons of gain it would probably do great.

Comments: If it were lost or stolen, I'd deffinitely get another.
Been playing since 86'
My other guitars are:
98' Hamer duo tone with "duncan designed" PAFs.
99 Ibanez RG (completely modified with Dimarzio P/Us and a Floyd rose original trem), Tone knob deactivated.
91' Fender Prodigy (with Duncan distortion)
86' Kramer Pacer with EMG S/S/H P/Us
84 Kramer Vanguard completely original, schaller P/Us.
87 Kramer Misc parts guitar, Baretta Body with Pacer Carerra banana headstock neck (With Bartollini active Humbucker)
88' Kramer Baretta "American" with this Duncan 59'
87 Ibanez Roadstar project guitar with Duncan screamin deamon.
Love the classic rock vibe of this PU, very warm overdriven tones. Does not drive my Carvin tubes into massive compression like my Dimarzio tone zone, when the vol knob is maxed. It really lets the acoustic / tonal qualities of the guitar and amp shine through.
I like its looks, looks just like an old PAF, no "SEYMOUR DUNCAN" lettering.
Basically I have experience with the forementioned pickups and I wanted to try the 59' mounted directly to the body of my basswood Kramer. The result is a very warm resonant guitar. Everyone else says its bright and has a lot of mid/high output. I have found it to be quite the opposite. in this guitar it has a very warm bassy output.
Love its warm mild output, drives my amp into fully overdriven tones without pushing it into full tilt tube compression... very unique. The only P/U I have found to accomplish this.
This is MY tone!!! warm and fat, fully overdriven without the fuzzy compression. very dynamic pickup, responds to my playing exactly. Makes me sound even more like Alex lifeson!!!
Dont hate anytihng, wish it came with a mounting ring.
Paid $65 for it so I cant give it a 10, other pickups I have ALL came with mounting rings.

Pickup features: Humbucking PAF Alnico V
Impedence or other specs: Vintage Patent Applied For output

Model of guitar or bass: LP Standard
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Gibson 57 Classic
Other pickups on guitar: Seymour Duncan Seth Lover neck position
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s): Rock, Blues
Reason for pickup change: Its been a quest for tone with this guitar really. It started with a change from the pickup the axe had in it when I bought it used 5 yrs ago. It was a nondescript model pickup which was thin and wiry sounding. Hellacious! So I put in the Gibson 57 classic and it was better by far than what I started out with but somewhat unbalanced sounding to me. The other problem was that the new Gibson was real weak compared to the SD 59 that came with the guitar in the neck position. And the SD 59 didnt look right without the cover when the 57 classic did have a cover. So I tried to solder a cover on the SD, but I got a lot of squeal from the amp so I then tried potting the pickup in wax a couple of times to no avail. But now the SD 59 had lost some high end and was muddy so I replaced it with a Gibson 490R and at least now, the volume was closer to the 57 but the 490R lacked definition. After 4 yrs of playing the guitar like that I finally got sick of the fact that when playing with both pickups on together I wasnt getting that cool 50s snarl so, in exasperation, I decided to try the old SD '59N in the bridge and WHOA! What a diff in ouput over the 57 Classic. Way better tone too and decidedly louder than the weak, muddy 490R. So a couple of days later I bought a SD '59 bridge pickup, moved the old '59n to the neck position and later on replaced the '59n with a Seth Lover neck position because it was made too muddy when I potted it. The 59n was not wasted though because I gave it to a friend who has it as his new bridge humbucker and it sounds great in that position!

Perceived output level: Correct PAF output
Tone: Bright but not hot, with great clarity and character and very well balanced. Nice midrange and clear low end.
Sonic evaluation: Im using my Lp with a Marshall Bluesbreaker Reissue amp, mostly straight in and cranked wide open when the wife's not around. The Seymour has a decidedly vintage vibe, covering all the shades of cool 60's and 70's tones like good PAFs should. Gots ta have a taste every day now!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Probably not a good match for Rap artists.

Comments: Below I give the pickup a 9 cause the scale goes in whole numbers but really I'd say 9 1/2 because it is the best PAF clone for the bridge that I have tried as of yet. Im still looking for a pickup with the same basic overall tone as the '59 but with a little more of the "sizzle", that secondary tone that PAFs have which seems so hard to replicate. My Seth Lover has more of that tone now and I may try a Seth for the bridge position. I have played a real 1960 LP Custom with a Bigsby and original PAFs and a 1961 Les Paul SG with PAFs and those pickups definitly had that secondary tone and there's nothing like it. Makes you feel like your playing into the instrument instead of on it, its hard to describe it. The '59 has everything else though and unless your stuck on getting the best Blues or Brittish BLues tones the '59 will be all you'll need. GREAT TONE!! I'd buy them again in a minute.

Pickup features: humbucker passive
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone Les Paul Standard
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Epiphone stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup: Brian Robertson
You musical style(s): Rock and Blues
Reason for pickup change: Better sound.

Perceived output level: Hot
Tone: Clean, crisp, beautiful.
Sonic evaluation: DOD TEC-8G multi-effects pedal and Marshall JCM 2000 DSL-401 all tube amp.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Play rock and blues. Perfect blues pickups. Great for rock if you believe the effects and amp should provide the distortion and not the pickup.

Comments: I play for a hobbie. I own an Epiphone Les Paul because I am not ready to put down the money for a Gibson just yet. I still want good sound. The epiphone stock pickups are very muddy and distorted when playing double-stops and lead licks that reqire two or more strings to play simultaniously. Went to the music store and played Epiphones and Gibsons through a Marshall tube amp. There is a noticable difference. I have Brian Robertson's video "Sill in Love With the Blues". He had a Les Paul Deluxe carved out to put these picups in. Loved his sound. Put '59s in my guitar, and the sound difference was night and day. This probably won't be my last guitar; I would love to buy a Gibson someday, but now my Epihone sounds great.

Pickup features: Humbucking pickup
Impedence or other specs: I forget...

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone Dot (335 copy)
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock
Other pickups on guitar: Dimarzio PAF in neck (it was free)
Artists using this pickup: Dude, Tom Seaton uses these things...enough said.
You musical style(s): Spacey rock & roll (brit-pop)
Reason for pickup change: I liked the way the stocks sounded through my Twin alright. I admit that I wasn't totally pleased with them. Then I got a Marshall and realized that the sound was very thin. A friend of mine suggested that I upgrade my pickups. I was considering the Gibson '57s and the Duncan Antiquitys. I settled on the '59s because they were reasonably priced and were getting the same sort of reviews as the others that I listed above.

Perceived output level: They sound great. Not only did they substatially improve the sound I was getting from my Marshall but they gave me a much prettier clean tone through my Fender. A very versatile pickup... this is exactly what I was looking for. Very clear sounding, but
Tone: Sort of on the Bright side. Bass sounds full though. I boosted the mid. pole pieces on the pickup when I set it up. The mids sound good but the pickup is not extremely mid rangey. I like this about this pickup. Not muddy at all...very clean and crisp
Sonic evaluation: I am using the Epiphone Dot through a Whirlwind A-B-Y box, into a '71 Fender Twin Reverb and a Mid 80's Marshall Jcm 800. This sounds absolutely amazing.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play pretty much Beatles influenced rock and roll. A very good match for me. Just what I was looking for. I am happy with it....

Comments: I would buy again if stolen. I've been playing for about 3-4 years. My friends have a lot of vintage Gibson and Fender Guitars. I have compared the sound with those pickups. I sort of like the way these sound better than the Vintages. A little hotter and a little brighter. More versatile basically.

Pickup features: Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Gibson Les Paul Studio (Early 90's)
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Stock Gibson (490 or 498)
Other pickups on guitar: Stock Gibson
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s): Pop Rock (Toad the Wet Sprocket, Hootie, The Eagles, etc)
Reason for pickup change: Stock pickups lacked clarity.

Perceived output level: Slightly hotter than stock Gibsons
Tone: Fairly well balanced...seems a bit bassy if anything
Sonic evaluation: 90's Gibson Les Paul Standard OR 90's Fender 60s Strat (Japanese) -- Ibanez Crybaby -- Ibanez TS5 Tubescreamer -- Line6 2x10 Spider (w/ Floorboard controller)

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Good matched for most pop-rock tunes...also great for dabbling in blues

Comments: I've been playing rougly 6 years with reasonably nice equipment. This pickup fits my style and I think it sounds great. I still haven't found "the tone"...but who has! If stolen or damaged I may purchase again, or maybe try the Duncan AP-1 'bucker.

Pickup features: Humbucker, passive bridge pick-up
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: 97 LoneStar Strat ( Alder body, maple neck)
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: SD pearly gates plus
Other pickups on guitar: Custom Shop Fat 50's on neck and middle.
Artists using this pickup: me
You musical style(s): Reggae, Rock, R&B, Alternative , Blues, Funk, Punk, 80's Rock,Surf, Pop
Reason for pickup change: Needed a versatile pick-up that can cover almost everything.

Perceived output level: A little louder than the Fat 50's when in full humbucker mode but balance in the "in between" position.
Tone: Balanced
Sonic evaluation: I am using Boss effects and Peavey Classic 50 4/10 with J/J tubes(on preamp and power). I have found the pick-up that I was looking for, thanks for Rodney Gene from Seymour Duncan for all the infos. that I asked him. Good for all types of music, very versatile indeed.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play almost anything, from surf to rock.... I think you can use this on any position except middle.

Comments: I have been playing for 15 years, 5 years professionally. I must say it is a very versatile pick-up. I wanted to make my Strat into a Showmaster Strat without the Custom Shop price tag. I also change the volume pot to CTS 500K pot, a master TBX with .1MFD and .047MFD switch, a master midcut/mid boost when pulled up and when flat, normal tone control from Torres Engineering. Maybe on my next project I will use a Trembucker version and with zebra color.

Pickup features: Humbucking, passive
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: 1973 Gibson SG Standard
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Gibson 500T Hot Ceramic humbucker, awsome but too much output and modern tone
Other pickups on guitar: 496R Hot Ceramic Neck pickup
Artists using this pickup: I dunno...but if they aren't the #$%@! need to!
You musical style(s): Everything from punk to prog The Damned meets Porcupine Tree
Reason for pickup change: I bought the guitar in 1987 and never really cared much for the stock pups, they were too mudande, toneless, and muddy. They were eventually replaced with Gibson 500 and 496 Hot Ceramic pups, while I liked the tone they were just a little too "blazing" and sounded to harsh clean. Spotted this SD 59 on a clearance table for $39 and couldn't pass it up. It's a "Classic Cover" model even! So it makes my SG look vintage stock again which is nice. Can't wait to get a neck model to pair up with it.

Perceived output level: Medium output. Think vintage Gibson, after all it is the "59"
Tone: Its got a subtle mid kick to it which give it a nice nasally singing sustain with the tone knob rolled back. Apart from that its actually pretty balanced and beautifully transparent. Tends to have a bit more treble than bass which helps bring out the highs in the SG, a mahogany dark sounding guitar
Sonic evaluation: I'm using the SG with a Yamaha DG60 (One of their new digital modeling amps, also reviewed) The SD '59 in made for tube tone and luckily the Yamaha does a damn good job at modeling. Like I mentioned above the pup has a very subtle midrange kick that really helps it sing, especially with the tone back a bit. I feel like I'm reviewing wine here...its smooth and crisp with a hint of smokiness haha. Articulate would best describe this pickup, it really lets the tone of the wood sonically shine. Its not a high output deal but it does kick snarl and bite just enough when the gain is maxed out, yet it doesn't get all chunky sounding like a shred model pickup which is nice. Think Social Distortion or AC/DC. Its very responsive to pick attack and vol/tone changes...it picks up every nuance so there's no hiding behind overloaded and colored output. On clean settings its shimmering! I have never been able to say that about my SG. No matter what pickup I've used before its always sounded too muddy or boomy played clean but no more. Its crystal clear now. I actually have to turn the treble back on my amp, something I've always had to do the opposite of with other pickups. I have finally found the pickup I've needed/wanted for this guitar for over 10 years! Why the hell didn't I try one sooner!?!?!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I listed my styles above and this pickup suits me perfectly. It would only be unsuitable for shred metal or trash like Limp Bizkit or Korn

Comments: I'd buy it again in second. I can't wait to put one in the neck position! I'm totally satisfied (at last!) with this pickup. Its THAT sound.

Pickup features: Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: ESP LTD H-200
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Stick Duncan Designed Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: Duncan Designed in Bridge position
Artists using this pickup: uumm.....not enough fingers to count them all
You musical style(s): Heavy Heavy and melodic (weird combo huh)
Reason for pickup change: The Stock Duncan sounded a bit muddy. Needed something a tad brighter and more defined.

Perceived output level: Really warm middle of the road output.
Tone: Well balanced
Sonic evaluation: I basically play through a complete Rocktron setup. Like this -->ESP Guitars -->Rocktron Pro G.A.P preamp -->Rocktron Replifex Processor -->BBE 462 Sonic Maximizer -->Rocktron Velocity 120 --> Marshall JCM900 cabs in stereo.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: As mentioned before....I prefer very melodic and Heavy. I have fun trying to merge the style of Creed with Enya. Very interesting.

Comments: I originally installed this pickup in the neck position. I was blown away by the sound. I just turned an ESP into a Les Paul. Although I am not a big fan of the LP, I do repect the tonal qualties of the instrument. The '59 has a very full bodied sound to it.
Just for kicks....I pulled it back out and swapped it into the bridge position. The '59 became an entirely different animal. And a powerful animal it is.... The clarity was incredible. I couldn't believe what I was missing. I think I have finally found the sound I was looking for. I went online and immediately bought another one.
I have been contemplating on buying many many more and outfitting the rest of my arsenal.

Pickup features: Passive Humbucking
Impedence or other specs: don't know

Model of guitar or bass: Tokai '58 Les Paul Gold Top Replica
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Standard Tokai (bridge position)
Other pickups on guitar: Standard Tokai (neck position)
Artists using this pickup: dont' know
You musical style(s): Rock/Blues
Reason for pickup change: Existing Tokai lacked character

Perceived output level: Slightly less than original
Tone: Balanced
Sonic evaluation: Marshall JCM900 2x12 Combo and Line6 Pod.v2

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Rock/Blues

Comments: If it bust I'd go and buy it again. I've been playing for about 12 yrs and thought the original Tokai pickup lacked personality. This baby is brilliant though. It is so harmonically rich compared to the old one I'm going to have to buy a second to go in the neck position. The midrange now has a snarl and an obvious honky quality like a strat and the treble is really smooth. The midrange is the best bit though.

Pickup features: Passive humbucker, alleged replica of Gibson PAF, no cover
Impedence or other specs: Can't remember

Model of guitar or bass: 1996 Gibson Les Paul Standard
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Stock Gibson 498T & 490R
Other pickups on guitar: Now I've got two of these!!
Artists using this pickup: No idea, but it claims to replicate the pickup they all used - Page, Clapton, Green, Kossoff.... and now me.....
You musical style(s): Classic rock, pop, new wave, blues, mock-jazz
Reason for pickup change: The stock Gibson 498T bridge pickup lacked the classic sound and versatility I was after. Flat out and distorted it sounded great but it had too much midrange and it didn't clean up at all when you backed the volume off. For clean sounds it was just bad (too much middle again, I think). I am sure the Gibsons I owned twenty years ago sounded better!
I wanted a classic Les Paul sound. I was impressed by the range of tones Brian Robertson (ex-Thin Lizzy) gets out of his Les Paul on his "Still in Love with Blues" video. I decided I had to get a PAF-type pickup, and I chose the Duncan.
I have to say the Gibson 490R neck pickup wasn't at all bad, though perhaps a bit too thick and syrupy when distorted. However, I loved the Seymour Duncan '59 bridge pickup and changed the neck pickup mainly to have a matching pair.
It is a mystery to me why Gibson don't just put PAF-spec pickups into Standard Les Pauls. Surely most people who buy this guitar want that classic sound? Death-metal enthusiasts buy something black and pointy with a locking tremolo, don't they?

Perceived output level: Classic Gibson PAF humbucker - hotter and fatter than single coil Strat, Tele etc. but it's controllable and responsive, unlike some hotter "modern" humbuckers. Interestingly I didn't notice much of a drop in output from the 498T, but the tone was much better...
Tone: Bright (but not tinny) sounding humbucker. Well balanced. Fat and full when distorted, but cleans up as you back the volume off. Clean sounds are excellent, and it's really good for that blues thing with a valve amp where the sound is just starting to break up. Basically, it doesn't have the overwhelming midrange of the 498T, and it sounds much better!!
Sonic evaluation: I'm playing the Les Paul into a Marshall JTM60 2X12 combo. I use a Boss ME30 for Chorus, Delay etc. and for occasional EQ boost for solos. Generally all the overdrive and distortion comes from the amp/pickup. This is why I needed a more versatile pickup. See my comments on output level and tone above for further sonic evaluation.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Perfect for classic Gibson Les Paul music - blues, bluesy rock, classic rock. Also good for pop and new wave sounds. Probably not one for the satanic death metal / super widdly guys, but what are they doing buying replicas of Gibson pickups anyway? Good jazz sounds at the neck, I think, but I am not a real jazzer...

Comments: I would buy this pickup again and recommend it to anyone looking for that classic Gibson PAF sound. I've been playing for 26 years and have played a number of Gibsons, Fenders etc. The modern stock Gibson pickups seem to lack the classic tone and this is a good way of getting that tone without having to buy a vintage guitar. For that reason I say this pickup is Fantastic Value.
Gibson do their own PAF-type pickups, but I think they're more expensive than the Seymours. Personally I think Standard Les Pauls should come with PAF-spec pickups!!
One other thing - I find the look of the modern Gibson mirror-finish chrome pickup covers a bit gaudy - these open coils (mine are zebra) look much better to my eyes!
One other other thing - sorry about the two times I hit enter accidentally and submitted an unfinished form!

Pickup features: Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Yamaha 24 fret strat style with Floyd
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Duncan Custom
Other pickups on guitar: Stock Humbucking neck, and single stack middle
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s): Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change: Duncan Custom was undefined and had a SHRILL to it.

Perceived output level: Medium
Tone: Ballanced,
Sonic evaluation: Routed this way-- Guitar- Moreley Bad horsie Wah- Digitech GSP 2101- Peavey 50/50 classic Tube Power amp- 4x12's with Carvin VL-12's.
Very ballanced and clear, no muddiness, not shrill, rounded highs. Many people are using this pickup in the NECK but I suggest trying it in the BRIDGE also, Works excellent!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Very Versatile as I see it, I think It would suit MANY styles

Comments: Thinking about getting another for a different guitar of mine. I would indeed get another one if lost or destroyed.

Pickup features: Humbucking/passive
Impedence or other specs: 8k and 9k

Model of guitar or bass: Heritage H-535
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: none
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup: renaldo pissah
You musical style(s): Jazz, funk, blues, classic/prog rock fusion...man
Reason for pickup change: there was no pickup change, they were stock pickups with the ax, why do you keep asking me that?!

Perceived output level: Normal
Tone: tone is some what middle range, but that's what you get with a semi-hollow instrument, overall I'd say the pickups are balanced.
Sonic evaluation: Mesa boogie Nomad 55 is my main amp, also play a 65' blackface princeton reverb. Mesa does a decent clean, exellent overdrive, sound like a marshall plexi only more compressed, I'd say its a cross between the tone of Duane Allman and Santana(his tone on "supernatural," I like the tone, but the music is kind of gay, except for the song with Dave Matthews, anyways) With the fender, the clean is sounds wonderful, and when cranked the pickups drive it into a really nice blues sound.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Well with a semi-hollow body, i can do just about anything, but sure if you have george lynch fricken screamin demon pickups in there, it might not sound so good.

Comments: That question about stealing a set of pickups is kind of dumb, I won't answer that. I've been playing for 6 years. I'd say for a set of stock pickups, these are pretty damn good, but there is much better out there, Mccarty pickups sound very nice, but I'm not sure how they would sound in any other guitar but a PRS Mccarty. These are very average pickups I would say, the bass notes are kind of boomy, I would prefer a punchier more compressed sound. the 59's do tend to get a little muddy, I would like to switch to Fralins, but for now I think these pickups will do the trick, the guitar more than compensates for the weaknesses of the pickup.

Pickup features: Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: ?

Model of guitar or bass: 1997 Les Paul Classic
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Gibson 496R
Other pickups on guitar: Gibson 500T
Artists using this pickup: Don't know of any
You musical style(s): Blues and rock
Reason for pickup change: Stock Gibson pickup was way too muddy. I'm surprised at how loud the '59 is -- really almost as loud as the 496, but much clearer and brighter. I'd expected a major volume dropoff.

Perceived output level: Hot.
Tone: Solid bass, lots of mids and very smooth, mellow treble.
Sonic evaluation: I can finally enjoy playing my Les Paul! So far, I've only played it through my Pro Jr., but I'm going to play it through my Sovtek 50H at our next band practice. I'm extremely pleased -- I can get that sophisticated "old Paul" tone now -- like Peter Green, Mike Bloomfield, etc. The nicest surprise is how well it matches the 500T. I'd tentatively planned to replace the 500 with a bridge '59, but now I think I'll leave it like it is. The volume is nearly equal between the two pickups. I played a stock Paul with 57 Classics in both positions, and I felt the treble pickup was WAY too thin and weak. However, the '59 in the neck of my Paul nails that 57 Classic tone at about 1/2 the price.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play blues. This pickup just sings. Beautiful tone.

Comments: This is the perfect pickup for that vintage Paul neck sound. Match it with a hot bridge pickup and you're there. Can't improve on it.

Pickup features: humbucker ( passive)
Impedence or other specs: duh i think nope gone !!

Model of guitar or bass: Schecter T1
Position: middle
Pickup being replaced: duncan designed
Other pickups on guitar: dunacn designed p90
Artists using this pickup: Stesh - NoHope Wunders
You musical style(s): ska / punk
Reason for pickup change: the duncan designed had to much output and was to trebly no inspiring sound

Perceived output level: low - medium
Tone: balanced
Sonic evaluation: before the pickup change the guitar sounded to thin through my amps and bee in a jam jar tone ( to much output )
the amps i use are a mesa dual rec and a fender prosonic head both are used with my marshall 1960av 4x12 with vintage 30s
the guitar is now feels alive with great response to my finger and hands just the way i like it - i also have a gibson lp standard and a custom ( with kent armstrong custom wound pickups these are not sky pickups they were hand made for what i wanted ) and a gibson SG special which ill come to later.
what can i say the guitar just sounds great i can never understand why people want high output pickups with hi gain amps low output sounds better better to me
i would recomend this pickups to any body

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: ska punk - not suitable for metal probably !

Comments: 9 i can't give it 10 becasue only my kent armstrongs would get that if he made them in the UK anymore !!
but its still one of the best pickups ive heard !!
and i would buys it again !

Pickup features: Humbucking
Impedence or other specs: how should I know?

Model of guitar or bass: '72 Les Paul Deluxe GoldTop
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Gibson Mini Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: Seymour Duncan JB Bridge
Artists using this pickup: everyone, probably
You musical style(s): rock, punk, Pop
Reason for pickup change: stock Mini Humbuckers were too round and Jazzy. Not nearly enough bite or output.

Perceived output level: More than the stock Mini Humbuckers
Tone: bassy-mid but balanced goodness
Sonic evaluation: OH MY GOD! This '59 on the bridge completely destroys the mini humbuckers the Les Paul came with. The guitar tech who routed out the Les Paul said he couldn't believe how good this '59 Duncan pickup sounded. This pickup is THE SOUND I was looking for! Well worth the money. I think I'm going to trade in the JB model I had installed too for a bridge '59 model. The JB sounds too trebly to me. Duncan, you rock.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Punk, Rock, Pop

Comments: I wouldn't kill the guy who stole this guitar.
..at least, not at first. I'd have to get Medieval first.
I would buy another '59 in a second.This is MY SOUND. This is how a Les Paul SHOULD sound. Through my Marshall Plexi it just makes you want to cry. There... now I've gone and done it...I'm all Ferklempt...talk amongst yourselves...I'll give you a topic...Humbucking Pickup...it doens't Buck, and it isn't a Pickup..discuss.

Pickup features: humbucker--passive
Impedence or other specs: ???

Model of guitar or bass: Squire FR series (similar to the Heartfield Talon)
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: stock squire
Other pickups on guitar: duncan JB trembucker
Artists using this pickup: many
You musical style(s): rock (van halen, kiss, 70's 80's styles
Reason for pickup change: old pickup was microphonic (squeal at high gain settings) but I wanted a more versatile tone anyway

Perceived output level: the actual output I don't think is much more than the stock fender; I think it seems louder due to better tone
Tone: pretty balanced, accentuates lower mid frequencies
Sonic evaluation: my squire through a peavey ultra 410; I rarely use effects, sometimes a crybaby or a Boss metal zone. This is a good neck pickup because it gives me that airy tone that is good for neck solos (like malmsteen or Dream Theater's Pettrucci)

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: This is a very good match for rock styles. I couldn't comment on country or jazz, but I would imagine that it would work out

Comments: I'd get a 59 again in the event of some loss or damage. What I like about this pickup is it's versatility--it gets a nice clean tone, and responds well to varying amounts of distortion, from light to very high-gain.

Pickup features: Passive humbucker, coverless, four-conductor cable (this is an option... standard is single-conductor), Alnico V magnet.
Impedence or other specs: Sorry... couldn't tell you...

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez JPM100/4
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: DiMarzio Air Norton (saved for another guitar)
Other pickups on guitar: Seymour Duncan Distortion (may replace with a Screamin' Demon or Duncan Custom)
Artists using this pickup: I am, now...
You musical style(s): Progressive hard rock
Reason for pickup change: I wanted something with a little more body & prescence than the Air Norton, which I thought would sound better in a guitar with something other than basswood... maybe something with a maple cap.

Perceived output level: The output is the same as the Air Norton. It's not an extremely high output pickup, but mid/high output.
Tone: The pickup has emphasis on prescence and lower midrange. Although I thought the Air Norton was tonally similar, the '59 is warmer and has more prescence. It's exactly what I want for this guitar and I didn't even know it!
Sonic evaluation: I am using a 5150 head/cabinet. I also have two EVH Wolfgangs, an American Standard Strat with AlnicoII single coils (Duncans) and a Deluxe Strat Plus with the stock Lace Sensors. I wanted to get a sound from the Ibanez that was similar to my Wolfgangs. While experimenting, I found something different that I liked just as much. The Duncan Distortion matches well with the '59, but I may get something like a Screamin' Demon in the future... something with an AlnicoV magnet and a little less output.
The '59 is very warm and open. It sings. The clean sounds are surprisingly good, but this is still not my guitar for clean sounds. It does sound neat in combination with my Distortion for clean tones (the JPM wiring uses the inside coils of each pickup when the toggle is in the center position). This pickup really sings. It is full, has prescence and bite all at the same time. The people at Seymour Duncan recommended it to me when I told them what I wanted and I was a little skeptical. They were right.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play progressive hard rock, but this pickup is a perfect match for my lead sound since I use it as a neck pickup. I have yet to try a bridge '59, so I can't comment on that. Jazz musicians may want to steer elsewhere... something with more highs.

Comments: I would and will absolutely use this pickup again if I have the need. I have been playing for 13 years and have only truly become comfortable with my sound in the last year or so. The only pickup to which I have compared it in the same guitar is the DiMarzio Air Norton. The '59 has roughly the same output, but is warmer, fuller and has more prescence. I think I have found my neck pickup!

Pickup features: Passive Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: 70 Les Paul Custom
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Gibson PAF
Other pickups on guitar: JB
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s): rock, hard rock and blues
Reason for pickup change: gibson pickup was terribly microphonic and lacked clarity

Perceived output level: Not overly hot, normal output
Tone: bassy, bood mids and highs. clear
Sonic evaluation: my setup is a Vox wah, Ibanez tubescreamer, Marshall Guvnor, AB box>>Peavey Classic 30 and a Vox AC 30.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Great rock and blues pickup, smooth warm and lyrical. Probably not good for balls to the wall metal but I haven't tried.

Comments: Great pickup if one wants to retain a PAF sound. Mine is a two conductor model so it can't be split but I'll live. I like the way this pickup punches through in the neck position. My initial desire was for an Alnico II pro like my Brian Moore has but when I saw the deal on this 59 I didn't hesitate to buy it.

Pickup features: Passive humbucker, 4 conductor
Impedence or other specs: Mine = 7.45k

Model of guitar or bass: Gibson Les Paul Custom
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: 490R
Other pickups on guitar: Screamin Demon
Artists using this pickup: n/a
You musical style(s): blues, rock, metal
Reason for pickup change: The 490R was crap.....muddy, unbalanced, and lacked character.

Perceived output level: Medium output, slightly higher than the 490R.
Tone: Great ! Smooth & warm clean but breaks up nicely & cuts when overdriven.
Sonic evaluation: Les Paul--Boss MT-2 or Tube Screamer--Cry Baby 535Q--Marshall JCM602 with Boss DD-3 & GE-7 EQ in effects loop. The '59 is a great neck pickup...just what I was looking for. Bright and clear with warm sweet tone. Nice bottom end without sounding muddy or muffled. Nice vintage PAF sound !!!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Mostly blues and classic rock......sometimes metal. The '59 is a great pickup for all types of music.

Comments: I'd buy it again & recommend it to anyone looking for the classic PAF sound. It's just a well rounded, clear, balanced pickup that sounds sweet & warm.

Pickup features: Humbucking
Impedence or other specs: Alnico 5 bar high

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez RG570
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Stock V7
Other pickups on guitar: Duncan Custom Trembucker and Stock S1
Artists using this pickup: Alot
You musical style(s): Rock/Hard Rock/Metal and Jazz
Reason for pickup change: Needed something a bit brighter with more personality, the stock pickup was a little plain and had to much bass with no personality.

Perceived output level: Bright Vintage sound that is very distinctive
Tone: bright and balanced with low
Sonic evaluation: I use a Fender Roc Pro 1000 head with 2 1x12" cabinets and a metal zone pedal, with pandora effects box.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: This is great for jazz and blues, as well as that full sound a rock/metal band plays the slow parts of the songs before going heavy like Creed.

Comments: I give this pickup a big thumbs up, and it completes the sound I am looking for with my Ibanez. When I switch my selector the tones I get are so distinctive, and unique it is just great. I clip to the neck for Jazz, and the slow parts of rock songs, and just click back to the brige when I want to kick ass again. This SD 59 gives such a warm beutiful sound, that I can not explain how it makes you feel when you hear it. I would definately replace it if it were destroyed, and damaged.

Pickup features: Humbuckers (Passive)
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone ES 335 Dot
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: stock Epiphone pickups
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup: many i'm sure
You musical style(s): brit/modern pop (Sundays, Smiths), atmospheric rock
Reason for pickup change: stock pickups were dull and bulky sounding.

Perceived output level: std. Humbucker out put. more then the stock pickups. drives my TS-9 a lot.
Tone: great super bright treble end (true to the 335 sound), decent mids. lows can either sound muddy or nice a deep depending on your settings on the guitar and amp. it is wise to use the tone and volume knobs on this guitar to roll off extra brightness or to get the mix of the pickups right. i use both or the neck pu. not the bridge alone.
Sonic evaluation: these are in my Epiphone 335 Dot (like i said) which is running through a '67 Bassman head with 2 Eminence speakers. Good sound. Distorition pedals include the TS-9 and The Rat. i think this guitar would sound exceptional through a Fulltone Fulldrive 2 and then through an AC30. that is the stuff my band's other guitarist uses.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: this pickup is a decent match for my style of music. not clunky like stocks. i don't like to use this guitar for heavy clean rhythms period so i don't know if that would be good.

Comments: if someone stole my pickups out of my guitar? haha. anyway, i'd get these again for the same price (100 for both), but would've ratherd the Ducan Seth Lovers or the Gibson 57s

Pickup features: Passive Humbuckers
Impedence or other specs: Not a clue.

Model of guitar or bass: Fender Fat Strat, standard trem, rosewood (California Series)
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock TEXMEX Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: 2 TexMex single coils
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s): Rock and Blues
Reason for pickup change: I didn't like the stock humbuckers, I found them too twangy, and I wanted something hotter.

Perceived output level: It's slightly more than my stock, but there's barely a difference.
Tone: The output has more bass to it, which is nice, and the mids are a bit more filled in. Still too trebly for my tastes but I'll just tone my amp down.
Sonic evaluation: I've got the Fender Fat Strat, into my TS-9 Reissue, into my Dunlop Crybaby 535Q wah, into a Peavey Express 112 (nice amp IMHO). The humbucker really drives the TubeScreamer, it's a nice tight distortion, not muddy. Distinctive crunch. Harmonics are picked up much better. It's not as hot as I wanted, but it does the job. After I got them installed I wondered if there was much of a difference. Clean, normal playing, not much difference, but distorted it sounds better, fuller.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play blues and rock mainly, and I'd say this is suitable for both.

Comments: If it were stolen (but not the guitar?!?! hehe) I don't think I would buy it again. I need something hotter but still mellower. Although I don't regret getting it, my 100$ probably could of been used better somewhere else, maybe an EQ to get my levels nice.

Pickup features: Humbucking-passive
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone Les Paul Standard Limited Edition
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Stock Neck Pickup
Other pickups on guitar: Dimarzio Dual Sound in Bridge
Artists using this pickup: Don't Know
You musical style(s): Rock, Alternative, Blues, Punk, Grunge
Reason for pickup change: The stock pickups sucked big time

Perceived output level: pretty normal, a little less than i would've thought
Tone: good bass and treble, bright, even sounding
Sonic evaluation: Epiphone Les Paul Standard through a Laney HC25R occasionally using a Danelectro Fab Tone, Dunlop Crybaby, E-H Polychorus

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play rock, blues, alternative and everything associated with it. It is good for what i play

Comments: Been playing for 4 years and I like it. I'd buy it again if stolen or broke. I found it at a good price which helped influence my discision. I like Duncan more than Dimarzio so i might possibly change the bridge pickup