Thoughts on the Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker Pickup?

Instruments Guitar and Bass
1

I’ve been diving into the world of pickups and I keep hearing about the Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker. I’m interested in hearing from anyone who has experience with it. Here are a few things I’m curious about:

Sound Characteristics

  • How would you describe the tone? Is it warm, bright, or something in between?
  • How does it respond to different playing styles? For example, does it handle clean tones well, or is it best for heavier styles?

Comparison with Other Pickups

  • How does it stack up against other popular humbuckers, like the Burstbucker or some aftermarket brands?
  • Are there other pickups you would recommend if someone is looking for a similar sound?

Installation and Upgrades

  • Is the installation straightforward, or does it require special tools or skills?
  • If someone were to upgrade their pickup, would the 57 Classic be a good choice for a Les Paul or any other model?

Your Experience

If you’ve used the Gibson 57 Classic, share your thoughts! What do you love about it? Are there any drawbacks? I’m eager to gather opinions before potentially making a purchase. Thanks in advance for your insights!

2

I’ve had my Gibson 57 Classics for a couple of years now, and the sound quality is incredible. They provide a warm, vintage tone that really enhances my Les Paul’s character.

3

That’s great to hear! I’m curious though, how do they handle high gain settings? Do they still maintain clarity?

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4

In my experience, the 57 Classics remain articulate even with high gain. The clarity is surprisingly good, especially on solos.

5

I agree! I play classic rock, and they give me that punchy sound without losing warmth. Perfect for my needs!

6

I think what sets the 57 Classics apart is their balance. You get that creamy midrange and a lovely top end that doesn’t break up.

7

I found that they excel in blues genres. The sustain is just beautiful! Are there any downsides to using them?

8

I think the price can be a factor. They’re a bit pricey, but many say the value is worth it.

9

Totally worth the investment if you’re serious about your sound, but I do wish they were a bit more affordable!

10

You’re all making me want to try these pickups! How do they compare to other humbuckers in terms of warmth?

11

I believe they’re renowned for their warmth, but some might argue certain boutique options offer even more.

12

I’ve tried a few boutique options, but I still keep coming back to the 57 Classics for my main rig.

13

Guess it’s the classic sound for a reason! They definitely have that reliable vibe.

14

Has anyone ever thought about how these pickups might be too warm for some heavier styles? Just curious if they can handle metal.

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15

That’s a fair point! I play metal, and they work well but require a good amp to really shine.

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16

I’ve attached mine to a Fishman amp, and the sound is solid! Warm, yet crisp! I just wish I knew an amp that could cook like it does.

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17

I’ve installed the Gibson 57 Classic in my Les Paul, and it’s a fantastic upgrade! Make sure to prep your cavity well. Clean surfaces and double-check your wiring before you solder!

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18

Can’t agree more! I found the installation process pretty straightforward. Just take your time and you’ll feel great about it afterwards.

19

I’d recommend watching a few installation videos first. Visuals really help, especially with wiring. You don’t want to accidentally reverse the phase!

20

Great advice! I did that, and it helped me avoid a few pitfalls. Don’t rush; patience is key.