The BG50's in the new version have - looking at the eq-charts - more output and more bass/less treble. I reckon they will drive an amp harder and the clips shows it does metal not bad at all. The old BG50 is now the '52-set, but like Roy Fulto demo's they can rock/scream too. I don't think this set is the first choice for metal, but it's versatile for lots of styles. The 55 and 68-sets sound thinner and more twangy. If you want a Tele on steroids the new BG50's are very appealing.