software

I know the custom is a ceramic and JB A5 but how do they compare inquot;

punch
under hi gain
singing leads
sustain
cleaning up
versatility


Originally Posted by keano12I know the custom is a ceramic and JB A5 but how do they compare inquot;

punch
under hi gain
singing leads
sustain
cleaning up
versatility

IMHO -

Custom is punchier and clearer.
Both sound great under high gain
JB sings more
The JB is 'bouncier' clean..
JB is a tad more versatile.
Custom is snappier, quicker, and more articulate.

These pickups are my two SD faves at this time.

Punch: The custom has more punch. It's a thicker sounding pickup and tends to emphasize the low mids while the JB emphasizes more of the high mids (which can sound nasally in some guitars)

High Gain: They both work well under high gain, although the Custom is ballsier while the JB is a little more 80's hair metal.

Singing Leads: The JB sings and the Custom screams

Sustain: They have similar sustain. It could be argued that the JB might have more since the JB's Alcino V magnet has less pull on the strings than the Custom's ceramic. The difference is really negligible.

Cleaning Up: The JB takes the edge when it comes to cleaning up. It's a little chimier sounding when clean while the Custom tends to be a little sterile.

Versatility: They're actually both pretty versatile pickups, although most consider the JB to be the ultimate pickup for versatility.

Agreed on all points except the versatility issue. The JB to me seems much more like a lead player's pickup, while the Custom can cover rythm and lead with aplomb. Alos, the bass is tighter and more present with the Custom than with the JB.