Neck Pickup for 59/Custom Hybrid

[skelt101]

I’m considering putting a 59/Custom Hybrid in the bridge position of my Les Paul. However, I’m struggling with the neck position. SD recommends either a 59 or a Jazz, but what about the Sentient? That’s often described as sounding right between the 59 and the Jazz. Also, how would the Sentient compare with the fabled 59/Jazz Hybrid? Any other suggestions? FWIW, I typically use the neck position for cleans and switch to the middle and/or bridge to heat things up. Thanks for any help!

 

[beaubrummels]

Jazz, all day, all night.

 

[Mincer]

A Sentient is a fine choice. It really depends on the EQ you like or your guitar needs. The Jazz, to me, doesn't have enough bass and has too many highs. The 59 has too much bass for some guitars, but not all.
The Sentient is the middle ground between them.

 

[beaubrummels]

The Jazz, to me, doesn't have enough bass and has too many highs.

Did you use it in a Les Paul?

 

[Aceman]

If Lester is dark and muddy, go Jazz
If it is balanced etc., just go with the 59.

 

[jeremy]

as dave said, the sentient is a fine middle group choice

 

[Clint 55]

The bridge pickup doesn't dictate a certain neck pickup, it's just what you're using it for and what you prefer. The Jazz, Sentient, and 59 are all nice clean pickups. Is a really clean sound what you're going for?

Jazz - Super clean with tight bass and crisp highs.
Sentient - Similar but voiced differently to suit more metal sounding styles.
59 - Fat bass, voiced to sound more like a vintage Gibson. Has a bit of a bluesy sound to it, but is also nice and clean.

 

[Mincer]

Did you use it in a Les Paul?

I don't own an LP, but have tried one with a Jazz. Not my thing. But every LP sounds different to me.

 

[jeremy]

i like the jazz in the neck of the lps ive tried with em. they were probably loaded with 300k volume pots, which makes a difference for sure. hell jolly had one with a jazz set that was awesome

 

[magillver]

I have a guitar with a 59/custom bridge, with an Alnico II Pro at the neck that really works well to my ear...

 

[Mincer]

I have a guitar with a 59/custom bridge, with an Alnico II Pro at the neck that really works well to my ear...

See, that sounds a lot better to me, but I like darker sounds.

 

[JamesPaul]

If the Sentient does not work out, try the Jazz! I have it in 2 of my LPs.

 

[orpheo]

I enjoy the Sentient in almost every guitar, it can do high gain metal but also jazz and blues. It's NOT a fat-sounding or hot or warm pickup but it's not nearly as clear and clean as a jazz.