Pickups for a 1989 Epiphone Les Paul

[soundgardener75]

Been a while gentlemen!

I'm getting this 1989 Epiphone LP Custom, and it has Gibson 490/498s on 'em. I'm not a fan of the 498s, so that is going for sure.

Aside from the obvious choice (JB), what's another pickup that you folks would suggest that can handle alternative rock like the 90s Seattle sound?

I know I can trust your suggestions here, since there's a LOT of SD pickups over the years. Thanks in advance!

 

[Edgecrusher]

Re: Pickups for a 1989 Epiphone Les Paul

What direction do you want to go though... louder? more vintage? aggressive? mellow? 90's alt rock is kinda wide open tone wise

 

[Snake Aces]

Re: Pickups for a 1989 Epiphone Les Paul

90's Seattle sound meaning more Pearl Jam or meaning a bit more raunchy like Nirvana?

Off the top of my head though, I would throw something like either a Jazz or Alnico II Pro neck with either a 59 or Alnico II Pro bridge. If you want a little more out of your bridge though, maybe a 59/Custom or the Custom itself is more of what you're after.

 

[elelpe]

Re: Pickups for a 1989 Epiphone Les Paul

Or - judging by your name - Soundgarden? KT went from Marshall/Peavey to Mesa and got chunkier sound. Mostly he has stock Guild pickups. That said, Custom or '59/Custom hybrid will deliver too (besides JB).