Metal HSH config?

[ballstix]

Hey all, new to the forum.

I've an HSH Carvin and I want to replace the pickups with some Bare Knuckles.  I play mostly downtuned metal, so I want something tight and hot for the bridge.  It's a neck-thru with a maple neck / birdseye maple freboard, if that means anything.  As for the single coil, I REALLY like the glassy / shimmery strat tone, but I also want the volume to be able to keep up with the humbuckers as best as possible.  I'd mostly use it for cleans; Irish Tour maybe?  I have no idea what I want for the neck but if anyone wants to recommend stuff, have at it!

Thanks.

[musicmaker29]

I have a maverick F-3 and have a Painkiller in the bridge - it has the tighest bass response I have ever heard, love it.  Lots of mid in it as well, its a very very good pickup and I would recommend this, but other people have different opinions on it.....

[BigK]

I have a maverick F-3 and have a Painkiller in the bridge - it has the tighest bass response I have ever heard, love it.  Lots of mid in it as well, its a very very good pickup and I would recommend this, but other people have different opinions on it.....

A painkiller might be a little bright for a maple neck through guitar. What amp are you using? Nailbombs (possibly ceramic) would probably work quite well. also how downtuned is downtuned metal.

As for neck pickups the cold sweat is a very good bet, very versatile. Im quite partial to the Nailbomb and Holy Diver necks too. take a listen to antags neck pickup shootout and see what you like.

I'm afraid I have no idea about single coils so I cant pass on any wisdom on those.