Matched humbucker set delivers real-deal PAF tone
Gibson voiced the pickups on the SG Standard Tribute for tonal characteristics similar to classic late-period PAF humbuckers, but with a slight increase in the upper mids for a more contemporary sound. The 490 matched pickup set really shines when pumping out the classic fat, snarling tone that is the SG’s stock-in-trade. These pups are delightfully responsive, though — simply roll back the volume, and they clean up beautifully. Whether you’re delivering your musical message with mellow jazz tones, bone-rattling crunch, or a blistering liquid inferno, the SG Standard Tribute rewards your touch with world-class responsiveness. The pole pieces of the 490R and 490T (Rhythm and Treble) pickups are aligned to match the string spacing at the neck and bridge, respectively.