Considerations for Gibson SG

[Krylee]

I’m fixing up a Gibson SG Standard and was considering pickup options when a question arose:

How much of a difference will the magnet type make with the natural eq of an SG? I know the differences in Alnico II, IV and V equate mostly to midrange and treble/bass balance, but would the difference be noticeable or negligible in an all-mahogany, rosewood board guitar?

Here are the specific models I’m considering for the bridge position:

Alnico II - Gibson Burstbucker #3 - already in the parts drawer!
Alnico IV - Duncan Saturday Night Special
Alnico V - Duncan 59

I’m ultimately after some insight on how similar or different these models might be in this particular guitar model.

Thanks!

 

[Supernautilus]

I’m still relatively new to this kind of modding. But between my own experiments and what I’ve learned from the folks here, I can definitely say that it makes a difference no matter what the guitar is. If you have the ear to hear it.

With that said, I have no problem recommending the 59 set for your SG. I have the same set for my SG and it sounds glorious. I tried a few pickup combos before I settled on the 59 set, which I like best. I don’t think you will be disappointed.

 

[jeremy]

honestly, all those pups sounds good in an sg. what do you want out of the guitar?

 

[Mincer]

I have to ask what you don't like about the current pickups, so I can see where you'd most likely want to go.

 

[Chistopher]

I would say try the BB3 since you have it. What's in the neck?

 

[Krylee]

Thanks, everyone!

What I’m after is a compliment to the guitar’s natural tone. I don’t want to end up with any midrange honk or flubby low end.

There are no current pickups, but the last set in the guitar was a Distortion in the bridge and I believe I had the BB3 in the neck position, but it has been nearly two years since the guitar was assembled and playable so don’t quote me on that bit!

I listed the models in my initial post based on their relative output - I am looking for more of a vintage output level so the amps can do more of the work.

Zooming back out: Can anyone attest to how those three models might compare in this type of guitar?