software

I'll install one of them into a Ibanez RG1550 (pickguard on a basswood body, maple fretboard and floyd rose)

I'm going after a ballsy, tight, crunchy distorted tone but that won't be too harsh. That's why I'm not considering a full ceramic pickup like the Custom or the Distortion, they might be way over the top. However, I think the JB might lack some ballsiness, or the Custom 5 might be different than what I think. So how would you guys compare them?

Any input will be appreciated... thanks in advance.

The custom isn't over the top IMO, and is better than both the C-5 and JB for a ballsy tight tone.

The JB has a mid spike that makes it work well for solos, but for rhythm playing the custom sounds much fuller/chunkier with distortion... I don't find it to be too harsh at all.

The C-5 has a mid scoop to it and doesn't work so well in heavy distorted guitar mixes, so I wouldn't reccomend it for what you're going for.

I'd say check out the custom...Its a ceramic pickup that almost doesn't sound ceramic. Also fits with your description...ballsy, tight, crunchy, without being harsh.

I thought the C5 was suited towards more aggresive playing styles... well, I shall check the Custom them. Thanks guys.

Stay away from the JB if you are looking for tightness. The mid spike can also sound bad to some people also. I personally, like the mid spike but, I can not deal with the looseness of this pickup ander any circumstances!

I say the Custom will be a great choice!!!!

Custom!

Looseness and JB in the same sentence? I don't hear that, the mid spike however you can't miss. Still all in all everyone one should have a JB in their stable.

I have had The Jb and the Custom 5 both installed in my Les Paul Standard.... The Custom 5 to me seems to be a much improved version of the stock pickups. Full and rich sounding. Very smooth tone from top to bottom. Good clarity (not Jb good) But good enough for me. A real quot;roundquot; overall tone. This is what I stuck with in my Paul.The Jb Had a REAL mid range harshness that I didnt like. Very powerfull and clear. Even with the high gain distortion I use. I didnt like the lack of low end Balls it seemed to be missing in my Paul. But I sold the Jb to a friend of mine who installed it in an Ibanez 470s and it was WAY more balanced sounding it that guitar. Didnt seem to spike out the mids as much in it. quot;The Ibanez dont have a maple cap eitherquot;

I play thru a Mesa Maverick 2-12 combo which is a VERY mid sounding amp. So keep that in mind as you ponder your choice. They are BOTH very good pickups but RADICALLY different as far as they sound.

After reading lots of forum, I've decided that if I want mega power, I'll go Distortion. I've already decided on a Custom for my Dean. I think Lew had the best point a JB - If your in a band it cuts through best. Playing alone, people find it harsh.

The JB doesn't quot;chunk upquot; as well as the C5 and the Custom.

Ive tried many of these pickups in my Paul and the regular Custom works best for me.Good balance and punch,not overly aggressive or harsh.Great for 70s and 80s rock I play.Jason

Thank you guys!

I guess I should settle for the Custom, then. I should be buying it next week... I'll give you a nice review.