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Pickups replacement for BB King tone

Posted: Sun Nov 26, 2017 5:41 pm
by Rasha
:icon_whoknows:

Hi blues musicians,

I have recently bought an epiphone BB King Lucille. I would like to upgrade the stock epiphone pickups and replace them with Seymour Duncan pickups. Which Seymour Duncan puckus would be the most appropriate replacement to sound like the Gibson BB King Lucille?

Your prompt response would be very much appreciated.

Best wishes,
Rasha

Re: Pickups replacement for BB King tone

Posted: Sun Nov 26, 2017 6:34 pm
by fenson
SD pickups will certainly not be your best option to get close to BB tone... IMHO
Anyhow, before replacing pups think first of the wiring ( wire, pots & caps )...
Once you've done with it you'll probably notice a 'real' difference/enhancement with what you actually get :D
Not satisfied? Yet you migth eventually look for pups, let say: Lollar, Amalfitano (personal choice though) :icon_whoknows:

However BB's tone very much more comes from how his both hands make the strings to sound, his phrasing, and his inimitable vibrato...

Hope this helps
IF

Re: Pickups replacement for BB King tone

Posted: Mon Nov 27, 2017 8:10 am
by 12bar
Welcome Rasha :welcome:

Like Fenson I think SD is not the first that comes to mind. However, at
https://www.seymourduncan.com/forum/sho ... %20Lucille
there are some ways to do that.

BUT - wiring and solding in a semi-hollow is a real pain, think twice before starting. I have a Sheraton and the stock PU's can produce a BB-ish sound, but it's really in his fingers. The Epi Lucille should be able to get close enough without changing anything.

Re: Pickups replacement for BB King tone

Posted: Thu Jan 11, 2018 11:19 pm
by Blindboy
If I were you, I would work on playing technique and amp settings before changing pickups. I have a Sheraton and really like how the stock Probuckers react with my amp. If you must change the pickups, try some Gibson 57's or Lollars.