I'm not a "metal" player — Nailbombs?

[Slartibartfarst42]

If the Rebel Yells are also quite aggressive, an Abraxas set could be just the ticket as they're extremely versatile and as a hot version of the Mules, will suit a Les Paul very well. I'd also like to put forward a set of Emeralds as they also work very well in Les Pauls, aren't too hot and offer some fantastic tones.

As far as some pickups being too middy is concerned, I wouldn't worry too much about it as in my experience, the EQ charts tend to exaggerate what's there but the reality is invariably more balanced. My Holydiver is supposed to be very mid-focused but I put it into a very middy guitar and I still boost the mids on my EQ because the reality is that it's a lot more balanced than you think. By the same token, Cold Sweats are supposed to be very bright and while they are a bright pickup, it's nothing like as extreme as the website suggests.

[crxsh]

As far as some pickups being too middy is concerned, I wouldn't worry too much about it as in my experience, the EQ charts tend to exaggerate what's there but the reality is invariably more balanced.

If accurate, this info is kinda frustrating.

[crxsh]

Resurrecting this thread because I found a set of RY's. Curious for more opinions on whether or not they'd be too hot for my taste. I never play clean, but don't play heavy either.

And somebody in here suggested the Abraxas... but as far as I can tell, they measure similarly and are likely pretty close in EQ.

Thoughts?

[darkbluemurder]

It's a bit difficult because all you have given for information is that you play a Les Paul, want a more modern tone than the 60s type T-tops you currently have and mainly stay in the medium gain area. As regards the two pickups you put on your shortlist they have indeed similar specs - the Abraxas being the hottest in the vintage hot category and the Rebel Yell probably being the least hot in terms of output in the contemporary category. I have not played them in the same guitar but I would characterize both as follows:

Abraxas: hot PAF type, singing mids, good but smooth highs, very friendly overall.
Rebel Yell: hot output but not overbearing, crunchy mids, slightly biting (but not harsh) highs, more aggressive overall.

Cheers Stephan

[HTH AMPS]

Abraxas, no question.

I have clips on Youtube of this pickup - checkout the link in my sig below.

[darrenw5094]

Abraxas, no question.

I have clips on Youtube of this pickup - checkout the link in my sig below.

Dude.....what video in your list is the Abraxas?

[crxsh]

It's a bit difficult because all you have given for information is that you play a Les Paul, want a more modern tone than the 60s type T-tops you currently have and mainly stay in the medium gain area.

Thanks for the info, Stephan. What other information should I provide?

[crxsh]

Abraxas, no question.

I have clips on Youtube of this pickup - checkout the link in my sig below.

Checking that out now. Thanks!

[Slartibartfarst42]

Well, the Rebel Yell and Abraxas may be similar in EQ and output but I think the magnets will make them sound quite different as the AIV magnet on the Abraxas will mean it cleans up a bit better, is that bit smoother and sweeter as well as more of a PAF style pickup. I think the Abraxas is your best bet.

[darkbluemurder]

It's a bit difficult because all you have given for information is that you play a Les Paul, want a more modern tone than the 60s type T-tops you currently have and mainly stay in the medium gain area.

Thanks for the info, Stephan. What other information should I provide?

What kind of music do you play and what amp(s) and pedal(s) do you use?

Cheers Stephan

[dheim]

to please monsieur de lapalisse i'd say that few pickups sound too aggressive when you don't play aggressive stuff with lots of gain... surely it's not the case for the Nailbombs. very dynamic and versatile, can go from classic rock (with a modern, edgy vibe) to melodic death metal... rebel yells are an excellent choice too, but since you mentioned "modern" tones i'd say Nailbombs.