Warmer bridge pickup for Hagstrom Viking (335 style)

[onlytwin]

Hey folks, just looking for a humbucker recommendation in my Hagstrom Viking (basically a 335). I'm actually using a set of Railhammers right now, but I'm not sold on them and thinking of going back to regular humbuckers.

I believe the stock pickups are Hagstrom's take on a 50s PAF. I measured the neck at ~7.2k and bridge at ~8.3k. I always thought the bridge sounded a bit weak and compressed, and it had a nasal treble presence that I didn't care for. I'd like something a bit more balanced - not necessarily hotter, just smoother highs and less nasal EQ in general. I'd be using it for some heavier indie/prog music, so it needs to handle cleans and distortion equally.

I'm also open to matching it with a new neck pickup if you have a suggestion, but I think the stock one is good enough.

Thanks for your help!

 

[Mincer]

Re: Warmer bridge pickup for Hagstrom Viking (335 style)

You might try a 59/Custom Hybrid in the bridge, which isn't weak, and still has a PAF-type EQ. It matches well with a 59, Seth Lover, or Antiquity in the neck.

 

[JOLLY]

Re: Warmer bridge pickup for Hagstrom Viking (335 style)

I'd personally go with either an Alnico II Pro or Seth Lover set. The Alnico II Pros are rather warm.

 

[onlytwin]

Re: Warmer bridge pickup for Hagstrom Viking (335 style)

Thanks for the suggestions. The 59/Custom looks interesting - based on the description I think it might suit my needs.

 

[Condemned soul]

Re: Warmer bridge pickup for Hagstrom Viking (335 style)

Have been using a Jazz neck with the 59/Custom in a Santana SE and they work really well together.


The Jazz seems to have a flatter, smoother, and glossy sound as compared to the 59, I don't have any experience with either the Seth Lover or the Antiquity.

As for the 59/Custom, others can better describe it than I. This pickup is seriously fun to play. It has a slightly higher output and rolls down nicely.