650 HB vs. Gibson?

[joutten]

Anybody have any observations on the RIC Humbucker 650's vs. the Les Paul Standard sound? I have a 360/6 and I would like a nice contrasting HB guitar for heavier rock material. I like the Les Pauls but cost is a bit more than I'd like to spend and the model I want is tough to find used. I'm open to considering other guitar options. I know RIC HB's are single coil voiced - Are they different enough from the 360/6 Hi-Gain sound? How does the RIC HB compare to Gibson? Any thoughts? I do not have easy access to a 650 and I want the 360/6 and HB guitar to cover a lot of territory for me and be my only electrics for a while.

[ken_j]

The current Rick HBs have a definite humbucking sound IMO. They do not have as much output as my SD '59s in my other guitar or as much as Gibson "57 RI or 490 series pickups. This shouldn't be an issue with todays modern amps. Played though a Boogie or Marshall these will get a nice shred if that is what you desire. I prefer to play clean to a bluesy tone myself and can get that too. These pickups have four conductors so you can split them off if you desire. The older ones are two conductor. I think that they would be worth a try.

Rhoads Music is in PA and is a Rick dealer. Maybe a road trip is in order if it is not too far.