Gearank Recommendation
The Gibson 57′ Classic appeared on our recommended list for Budget Guitar Pickups in 3 consecutive editions from our first one in November 2017 until November 2020 when it was removed due to us placing a $100 price limit for individual pickups.
Overview
The most famous Gibson pickups are known as PAFs, which stands for patent applied for.
Since their introduction, and subsequent discontinuation, Gibson has cycled through tons of different pickups looking to get as close as possible to the famous tone of their initial humbuckers.
The Gibson 57’ Classic Plus is a reproduction of a slightly overwound (more windings equals higher output) PAF pickup, so it has a warm vintage tone and some more modern bite.
Think of a Led Zeppelin style Les Paul tone. Unlike original PAFs, the Gibson 57’ Classic Plus is manufactured under stricter levels of quality control. This means that you’re going to get a more consistent performance out of your pickups.
To stay true to its roots, the Gibson 57’ Classic Plus also uses vintage construction, such as enamel coated wire, nickel slugs, maple spacers, and two conductor braided wiring.
If you’re into the classic Gibson Les Paul tone, then it’s best to go with the company that actually build the original. While it maybe expensive, most agree that the ’57 Classic Plus is a worthy investment.
Specifications
- Position: Bridge
- Magnet Material: Alnico 2
- String Spacing: Not Stated (Likely Standard Gibson Spacing)
- Available Colors/Covers: Nickel, Gold, Double Black, Zebra
