Re: Active in strat.(shred)
the wood still does have some effect, but not so much as a passive would.
My suggestion (for the bridge position) Seymour Duncan Livewire for strat (hot)
Great active pick-up for a strat, and you could throw a couple more livewires in there (possibly classic) for a full S/S/S setup and it would sound great.
Rock On - Kac