Might take the plunge on a new SD pickup

[DankStar]

Want to change out a pickup in a strat I have (2009-ish Fender MIM rootbeer sparkle with alder body). I got it used and it has a duncan (I think a 59) but it doesn't really work for me (I guess it's like too low of an output? It's like too tame of a guitar rn). Don't want blistering high output, but something kinda medium-high that will growl a bit. I have a distortion in another axe, so would like to mix it up.

Kinda torn between a custom and a custom custom (or, maybe a JB). Most of my poking around has led me to a custom custom. I've had a JB before, and it was like a jack of all trades master of none to me. Not bad, but I like a little more aggression and harmonics I guess. The custom 5 didn't sound like my cup of tea in clips.

Did EVH really use the custom custom on Unchained?

 

[misterwhizzy]

Let the speculation begin!

 

[Masta' C]

I think you're on the right track with the Custom or Custom Custom

 

[Mincer]

The CC sounds fantastic in a Strat, btw, especially in 1-guitar bands. It occupies a lot of sonic space.

 

[JOLLY]

I like the Custom Custom. It doesn't blow me away or anything.

 

[beaubrummels]

Whole Lotta Humbucker would be another option if the 59 isn't enough output.

 

[jeremy]

if you want more aggressive than a jb, then get the custom. i love the cc but it round and warm

 

[Mikelamury]

Medium output, more aggression - go with the custom and don't look back.

 

[DankStar]

appreciate the input! leaning towards a custom

 

[marcello252]

Custom Custom on stratocaster sounds really good, even leaving the original 250K pot , I do prefere the JB however, matter of taste

 

[jeremy]

i like the cc in a strat, but i dont find it all that aggressive. though the custom (ceramic) and cc (a2) are the same pup other than the magnet, so if whatever he gets isnt the right flavor, a mag swap can push things in the right direction

 

[DankStar]

i like the cc in a strat, but i dont find it all that aggressive. though the custom (ceramic) and cc (a2) are the same pup other than the magnet, so if whatever he gets isnt the right flavor, a mag swap can push things in the right direction

cool, thank you. I think I'm a ceramic guy since I like the distortion and dimarzio super d

 

[marcello252]

The Custom in my strat sounded a bit too over the top, too much sizzle but in the ballpark for a EVH 80s sound for example, the Custom Custom is way rounder, but it all depends on the rig your are playing with, if it's too dark the CC could be a bit too much, if it's more 'modern' or fendery maybe the custom could result a bit harsher