TB-4 vs. TB-5

[donbarzini]

I just purchased a used guitar, alder strat body with a birdseye maple neck and fretboard, OFR. The bridge has a TB-4 and the neck has a Lil '59. I was wondering if the TB-5 would be a better bridge pickup considering the all maple construction of the guitar. the TB-4 sounds a little brite. Would the TB-5 sound uniform with the Lil '59 that is already in place? Any information would greatly be appreciated. I am heavily into more of the 80's type hard rock. Thanks!

 

[Gearjoneser]

Re: TB-4 vs. TB-5

There's 2 pickups that would work for you in that guitar. The Custom 5 had tight deep percussive lows, neutral midrange, and open airy highs like a 59. I know it would sound great in your guitar, so long as your guitar isn't TOO bright.

The CC works great in maple because it's dense in lower mids and the top end is slightly rounded off and buttery. Because of it's warmth and growly lower mids, it's a very full sounding pickup.

A good idea may be to purchase both pickups, install them both without trimming off much wire, then return your least favorite for a full refund. It's best to hear for yourself which is the best one, since everyone has different taste. I'd start with those 2.

 

[MDS]

Re: TB-4 vs. TB-5

You say it is all maple, but you said it has an alder body. The alder body won't be nearly as bright as an all maple axe. If you can clarify it might help people make recommendations.

Mike

 

[donbarzini]

Re: TB-4 vs. TB-5

Mike,

The guitar body is alder with a quilted maple top, no paint, just finished in oil. The neck is birdseye maple as well as the fretboard.

 

[donbarzini]

Re: TB-4 vs. TB-5

Well, I ordered the TB-14 for a start, seems like it should work well. If not, I'll try the TB-11.