Bart Mk1 pickups-?

[emblymouse]

I have these in my Lakland 55-01. I like the general sound qualities, but find inconsistancies in string tone and volume. My question: Are these dual coil humbucking p/u's? If I want to retain overall tonal characteristics what should I consider replacing these with?

[Showdown]

They are P type blade pickups in a soapbar case. The best thing to replace them with if you want a similar sound IMO are the US Bart MK5 that are made to replace them. I did it on my 44-01 (and replaced the MK-1 pre with a US bart too). They are dual coil (not P), but have the same general sound just better. Tighter lows, sweeter highs, better balance, more detailed sound. The MK-1 sound bland in comparison (I have another 44-01 with stock electronics so I can A/B them). That said, in a live band it is hard to tell the difference, at least a live band with loud drums and two overdriven guitars. When I play an acoustic duo gig I prefer the one with US Barts, you can hear the difference then, but with my hard rock/punk band I use them interchangeably.

I haven't had much of a problem with consistency in string balance with the MK-1s. I would try changing strings and getting a good setup before spending money on pickups if that is the reason you want to change. Some brands of strings are more even sounding from string to string than others, and pickup and string height can affect it too.

[Aarix]

For some more interesting possibilities, Nordstrand soapbars should fit in there too. I'd love to hear a '01 with big singles or fat stacks.