Seth vs Alnico 2 Pro in Bridge

[SunIsLoco]

I'm looking for a new bridge pickup to match my Jazz neck in my Les Paul Studio, and I've narrowed it down to Seth Lover or A2P. This will be replacing a Pearly Gates that i really like but that gets a bit too harsh under gain.

I was wondering if anyone had any experience with the differences between these two, or experience with matching either or both with a Jazz neck.

 

[Mincer]

Re: Seth vs Alnico 2 Pro in Bridge

Both, I would say, are warmer than the Jazz neck, an both have mids that the Jazz lacks. The Alnico II Pro is potted, so if you use a lot of gain, it might be a better choice. Loud volumes and a lot of gain will make the the Seth squeal, but to be fair, that isn't what that pickup does best. The Alnico II Pro sounds more buttery, while the Seth Lover sounds more classic.

 

[SunIsLoco]

Re: Seth vs Alnico 2 Pro in Bridge

Thanks for the info! Could you explain 'buttery' as a sound descriptor? That's a new one for me!

 

[NJLK]

Re: Seth vs Alnico 2 Pro in Bridge

I just installed an Alnico Pro II in the bridge of a Gibson Les Paul because the stock 57+ was too harsh. I love the sound the of APII. warmed up the guitar, but retained all the clarity I needed. Great pickup. I agree Mincer that it's a better choice under gain since it's potted.

 

[Jeff_H]

Re: Seth vs Alnico 2 Pro in Bridge

I think the Seth is the better sounding, more musical pickup, but it may feedback under serious gain. If that isn't a concern then I'd go that route. If you want potted and slightly warmer the APH is the way to go.

Good luck.

 

[Studioplayer]

Re: Seth vs Alnico 2 Pro in Bridge

I have no knowledge re: the Jazz, other than it is bright sounding. I chose a set of SethnLovers for my Les Paul Classic and I play those into an Orange Dark Terror (an amp noted for its gain). I have no trouble with squealing when using higher gain stages on the Orange. Of course, I don't play at arena volumes, so the actual context you plan on using either pickup that you mentioned is a big factor. I have only 15/7 watts to choose from with my Orange; so 100 watt amps might prove a challenge for the Seth bridge or the Alnico II. You'll need to consult several sources to be sure your choices are going to produce what your after.


Studioplayer