Change... or change everything?

[Jazz Rock]

Since I got new electrics in my Epi, I really feel like my Gibson should do a lot better than what she's currently delivering. :grumble:

So I am starting to foment a little project for this one. :scratchch

Still not convinced that the pickups are really bad, I was wondering if I could get a better sound from them by changing the wiring for a shielded one, the stock pots for CTS 500k, the jack and the 3 way switch, as previously done for the Classic.

Morevover, I guess from the work on the Epi that it would be less expensive than changing the pup, so I would be more incline to choose this solution, but I really don't know.

Would you guys care to vote and comment your choice?

 

[Lewguitar]

Re: Change... or change everything?

I'll just tell you about the experience I had last year when I installed a set of Jazz neck and JB bridge humbuckers in my nephew's Epi Les Paul Custom: it made it sound as good or better than my Gibson Les Paul Historic! And that is not an exageration. Lew

 

[saladin]

Re: Change... or change everything?

SD 59's sound way better then the Gibson 490-498T! Change the pickups.

 

[Lewguitar]

Re: Change... or change everything?

SD 59's sound way better then the Gibson 490-498T! Change the pickups.

I totally agree! The 59's are great vintage style humbuckers and have the tone of the early 60's Gibsons like those ES-335's used by Eric Johnson, Larry Carlton and others. If you're the kind of player who needs a little extra sparkle and clarity from the neck pickup the Jazz neck might be even clearer than the 59N. But a pair of 59N & 59B pickups is a great set in a Les Paul. Classic 1960 Sunburst Les Paul tone, like the Burst Clapton used with John Mayall or the early 60's Gibson SG he used with Cream. Lew

 

[Johtosotku]

Re: Change... or change everything?

IMO, do not change the pots, jacks, switches etc. They're good quality, at least all I've run into.

With my Gibson SG, I changed the pickups. It was because I needed the change. If you feel the same, go for it.