The Best Pickups for Gibson SG Guitars

Since its debut as the "new" Les Paul in 1961, the Gibson SG electric guitar's distinctive profile has made it one of the most instantly recognizable instruments. And, guitarists being guitarists, it's also been one of the most modded ones, usually with a pickup swap to help the player zero in on their personal tonal vision.

Why swap pickups? Studies have shown that pickup choice, especially in solid-body electric guitars, is perhaps the biggest factor in altering the instrument's basic tone, substantially outweighing other factors like tonewoods, and bridge/nut materials or construction.

In this article, we're going to present to you our choice of the best pickups for your Gibson SG, give you some tips on how to change out your pickups and, we hope, answer some additional questions we often get asked about pickup swaps. Whether you're ready to heat up your soldering iron or grab a cold one while someone else does the swap for you, let's dive in.

Pictured: Various Gibson SG Guitars

Table of Contents

How to Change Pickups in Your SG
Comparing the Best Pickups for SG's
The Best Replacement Pickups for Your Gibson SG
   EMG ZW Zakk Wylde 81/85 Humbucker Set
   Fishman Fluence Modern 3-Voice Humbucker Pickup Set
   Gibson Custom Custombucker Humbucker Pickup Set
   Gibson Dirty Fingers SM 4-Conductor Humbucker Pickup
   Gibson P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup
   Gibson '57 Classic Humbucker Pickup
   Seymour Duncan Retrospec'd Antiquity Humbucker Pickup Set
   Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Humbucker Pickup Set
   Seymour Duncan Black Winter Humbucker Pickup Set
   Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special Pickup Set
   Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup Set
   Sheptone Red Headed Stepchild Humbucker Set - 1959 Spec
Final Words
People Also Ask ...

How to Change Pickups in Your SG

Swapping pickups in your Gibson SG is a great way to tailor its sound to your personal style. Whether you're looking to boost output for heavier genres or dial in vintage warmth, here's how to navigate the process with confidence:

• Identify Your Tonal Goals: Are you after that classic SG bite, or do you want something smoother or more aggressive? Knowing your desired sound helps narrow down your pickup choices.
• Know Your Pickup Configuration: SGs typically come with humbuckers, but you'll also find models with P-90s or mini-humbuckers. Ensure your new pickups match your SG’s routing and mounting hardware.
• Check Pickup Fit: The Gibson SG is known for its slim body profile, which can affect how certain pickups fit. Make sure your new pickups will fit without needing major modifications to the body or pickup cavities.
• Understand Wiring Requirements: SGs typically use a three-way toggle switch and separate volume/tone controls for each pickup. Double-check that your new pickups' wiring matches this setup. Four-conductor wiring allows for coil splitting, adding versatility if you want it, but adds some complexity to installation with the addition of the necessary switching.
• Potentiometer and Cap Values Matter: Most SGs use 500k pots for humbuckers to maintain brightness. If you're switching to P-90s or lower-output pickups, you might consider 250k or 300k pots for a warmer tone.
• Take Reference Photos: Before disconnecting anything, take clear photos of your current wiring. This will be invaluable if you need to retrace your steps.
• Practice Soldering: Solid, clean solder joints are key to a noise-free signal. If you’re new to soldering, practice on spare wire before working on your guitar. Remember to use proper ventilation.
• Grounding Is Crucial: SGs have grounding wires connected to the bridge and control cavity. Ensure all ground connections are secure to avoid hum and signal issues.
• Adjust Pickup Height: Once installed, adjust the pickup height to balance output between the neck and bridge. This can dramatically affect tone, so take your time to find the sweet spot.
• Test Before Closing Up: Plug in your SG and test the pickups before reattaching the pickguard or cavity covers. Check for proper function in all switch positions and listen for any unwanted noise.

Pictured: Seymour Duncan Black Winter Humbucker Pickup Set

When to Call a Pro

If the idea of soldering or rewiring feels overwhelming, Guitar Center Repairs has you covered. Our experienced techs handle SG pickup swaps daily and can ensure your guitar sounds its absolute best. Stop by your local Guitar Center, and let us take care of the installation so you can focus on playing.

Comparing the Best Pickups for SG's

Before we start looking at them in a little more depth, here's a quick comparison of our recommendations for the best replacement pickups for your Gibson SG. They are listed here in alphabetical order, not in our order of favorites (as if a room full of guitarists could agree on that).

Pickup Model	Tonal Profile	Magnet Type	Output Level	Pickup Resistance	Price*
EMG ZW Zakk Wylde 81/85 Humbucker Set	Aggressive, high-output suitable for heavy metal and hard rock	81: Ceramic/Steel, 85: Alnico V	High	81: 10 kΩ, 85: 10 kΩ	$219.00
Fishman Fluence Modern Humbucker 3-Voice 6-String Pickup Set	Versatile with multiple voicings, from modern active high-output to crisp, clean tones	Ceramic VIII/Alnico V	High	Not specified	$269.95
Gibson Custom Custombucker Humbucker Pickup Set	Vintage PAF-style tones with clarity and warmth	Alnico III	Medium	Approximately 8 kΩ	$479.00
Gibson Dirty Fingers SM 4-Conductor Humbucker Pickup	Extremely high output with a raw, aggressive tone	Ceramic	Very High	16 kΩ	$149.99
Gibson P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup	Classic single-coil sound with a gritty, midrange punch	Alnico V	Medium	8 kΩ	$129.99
Gibson '57 Classic Humbucker Pickup	Warm, full tone reminiscent of late-'50s humbuckers	Alnico II	Medium	7.5 kΩ	$159.99
Seymour Duncan Retrospec'd Antiquity Humbucker Pickup Set	Authentic vintage tones with aged aesthetics	Alnico II	Medium	Bridge: 8.6 kΩ, Neck: 7.7 kΩ	$299.00
Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Humbucker Pickup Set	High output with a tight low end and aggressive mids	Ceramic	High	Bridge: 16.5 kΩ, Neck: 8.5 kΩ	$249.00
Seymour Duncan Black Winter Humbucker Pickup Set	Dark, aggressive tone tailored for metal genres	Ceramic	High	Bridge: 16.6 kΩ, Neck: 13 kΩ	$199.00
Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special Pickup Set	Balanced tone with vintage output, suitable for classic rock	Alnico IV	Medium	Bridge: 9.75 kΩ, Neck: 7.7 kΩ	$229.00
Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup Set	P-90 tone in a humbucker size, offering a fat, single-coil sound	Alnico II	Medium	Bridge: 8.5 kΩ, Neck: 7.98 kΩ	$199.00
Sheptone Red Headed Stepchild Humbucker Set - 1959 Spec	Vintage inspired with clear highs and balanced mids	Alnico V	Medium	Bridge: 8.3 kΩ, Neck: 7.6 kΩ	$349.00

The Best Replacement Pickups for Your Gibson SG

Here's some more in-depth info on the dozen pickups we think are your best choices for replacing your existing Gibson SG pickups. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing humbuckers or swap into the P90-laden goodness of the original SG Special and Jr., we’ve got your choice here.

Pictured: Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup Set

EMG ZW Zakk Wylde 81/85 Humbucker Set

Why It's Cool: This high-output active set brings Zakk Wylde’s signature searing tone and sustain to your SG, perfect for metal and hard rock.

Things to Consider:

• Active Electronics: Requires a 9V battery, adding a power source but delivering consistent tone
• Ceramic and Alnico Magnets: The 81’s ceramic magnets offer aggressive bite, while the 85’s Alnico V brings warmth
• Solderless Installation: Quick and easy to install without soldering skills

 

Shop Now: EMG ZW Zakk Wylde 81/85 Humbucker Pickup Set

If you're chasing crushing riffs and blistering solos, the EMG Zakk Wylde pickup set is your ticket to Zakk Wylde’s legendary sound. The 81 in the bridge gives you razor-sharp attack, while the 85 in the neck smooths things out for creamy leads. Metalheads and shredders will feel right at home, but if you're after vintage warmth, this might not be your set. Customer Reviews: Users love the crispness, sustain and sheer power, though some note that clean tones can feel a bit sterile.

Average customer rating: 4.7/5 stars

Fishman Fluence Modern 3-Voice Humbucker Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: With three distinct voicings, this set offers everything from aggressive metal tones to crystal-clear cleans at the flick of a switch.

Things to Consider:

• Multi-Voice Technology: Switch between active high-output, passive organic and single-coil clarity
• Noise-Free Performance: Fluence Core technology eliminates hum and interference
• Power Source: Requires a battery or rechargeable pack for operation

Shop Now: Fishman Fluence Modern Humbucker 3-Voice Pickup Set

For players who crave versatility without compromising tone, the Fishman Fluence Modern set is a game changer. Whether you’re playing djent, blues or clean jazz, these pickups adapt to your style with ease. They're perfect for modern players looking for flexibility, but traditionalists might miss the nuances of passive pickups. Customer Reviews: Players rave about the clarity and versatility, with some calling them the "ultimate" modern pickup set.

Average customer rating: 4.8/5 stars

Gibson Custom Custombucker Humbucker Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: This pickup set captures the vintage PAF magic of late-'50s Gibsons, delivering rich, dynamic tone with stunning clarity.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico III Magnets: Provide sweet, vintage warmth with lower output
• Unpotted Coils: Enhance harmonic richness but can be prone to feedback at high gain
• Nickel Covers: Classic aesthetics with a slightly smoother high-end response

Shop Now: Gibson Custom Custombucker Humbucker Pickup Set

If you're after the authentic sound of a '59 Les Paul, the Gibson Custom Custombuckers bring that vibe straight to your SG. They excel at blues, classic rock and jazz, offering rich harmonics and articulate highs. Just be aware that the unpotted design can introduce feedback at higher volumes. Customer Reviews: Users describe these as "the closest to real PAFs" you can get, praising their vintage tone and dynamic response.

Average customer rating: 4.9/5 stars

For more information on Gibson's current pickup offerings, be sure to check out the Ultimate Guide to Gibson Pickups.

Gibson Dirty Fingers SM 4-Conductor Humbucker Pickup

Why It's Cool: This pickup delivers one of Gibson’s highest outputs, with raw, aggressive tones perfect for hard rock and punk.

Things to Consider:

• Ceramic Magnets: Provide searing highs and tight low end for cutting through any mix
• Four-Conductor Wiring: Allows for coil-splitting options for added versatility
• High Output: Ideal for distortion-heavy genres but may overpower clean tones

Shop Now: Gibson Dirty Fingers SM 4-Conductor Humbucker Pickup

When you need your SG to scream, Gibson's Dirty Fingers humbucker is the go-to choice. Its unapologetically aggressive voice makes it a favorite among punk and hard rock players. Clean tones can be a bit brash, so it’s best suited for those who live in the distortion zone. BTW, if you're into cool vintage looks, the Dirty Fingers are also available with classic "zebra" coins bobbin. Customer Reviews: Players love its "ferocious tone," with many saying it’s the perfect upgrade for heavier genres.

Average customer rating: 4.6/5 stars

Gibson P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup

Why It's Cool: The Gibson P-90 delivers a gritty, midrange bite that’s perfect for blues, rock and punk.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico V Magnets: Provide punchy mids and smooth highs
• Single-Coil Design: Adds brightness and clarity but may introduce hum
• Soapbar Mount: May require routing if replacing humbuckers

Shop Now: Gibson P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup in Cream

The Gibson P-90 is the secret weapon for SG players who want a raw, expressive tone with a touch of vintage flair. It’s perfect for those gritty, overdriven sounds, and while it’s noisier than humbuckers, the tonal payoff is worth it for many. Customer Reviews: Users love the "gritty, expressive tone," but some mention the hum in high-gain settings.

Average customer rating: 4.7/5 stars

Gibson '57 Classic Humbucker Pickup

Why It's Cool: The ’57 Classic brings the warm, balanced tone of vintage PAFs to your SG with smooth mids and sweet highs.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico II Magnets: Deliver smooth, vintage warmth and great sustain
• Vintage Construction: Enamel-coated wire and nickel covers for authentic tone
• Medium Output: Perfect for blues and classic rock but may lack bite for metal

Shop Now: Gibson '57 Classic Humbucker Pickup

If you want your SG to sing like a late-'50s Les Paul, the Gibson '57 Classic is the pickup for you. It excels in blues, jazz and classic rock, offering rich, creamy tones with just enough bite for lead work. Metal players might want something hotter, but for vintage vibes, it's hard to beat. Customer Reviews: Players rave about the "authentic PAF tone," with many calling it a perfect match for classic rock tones.

Average customer rating: 4.8/5 stars

Seymour Duncan Retrospec'd Antiquity Humbucker Pickup Set

Why They're Cool: These pickups deliver authentic vintage tone with a hand-aged look and feel, making them perfect for retro enthusiasts.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico II Magnets: Provide a smooth, warm tone with vintage character
• Aged Aesthetic: Hand-distressed covers for a true vintage look
• Medium Output: Suited for blues and classic rock but not for heavy metal

Shop Now: Seymour Duncan Retrospec'd Antiquity Humbucker Pickup Set

The Seymour Duncan Retrospec'd Antiquity set is ideal for players looking to capture the essence of '50s and '60s rock. With their hand-aged appearance and warm, articulate sound, they bring old-school charm to any SG. They’re perfect for vintage purists but may lack the aggression modern players seek. Customer Reviews: Users appreciate the "authentic aged tone and look," with many praising their responsiveness and clarity.

Average customer rating: 4.9/5 stars

Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Humbucker Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Designed for crushing metal riffs, this set delivers searing highs and tight, aggressive lows with brutal clarity.

Things to Consider:

• Ceramic Magnets: Provide tight, articulate lows and razor-sharp highs
• High Output: Perfect for metal but may be too aggressive for softer genres
• Four-Conductor Wiring: Allows for coil splitting and tonal flexibility

Shop Now: Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Humbucker Pickup Set

If you’re into face-melting riffs and bone-crushing breakdowns, the Seymour Duncan Hades Gates set is built for you. These pickups offer the clarity and aggression needed for modern metal while still retaining enough versatility for cleaner passages. They’re perfect for metalheads but may overpower more subtle playing styles. Customer Reviews: Players love the "brutal clarity and punch," with many calling them the best metal pickups they've tried.

Average customer rating: 4.8/5 stars

Seymour Duncan Black Winter Humbucker Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Built for extreme metal, Black Winter set delivers dark, aggressive tones with unparalleled clarity and punch.

Things to Consider:

• Ceramic Magnets: Deliver tight, aggressive lows and searing highs
• High Output: Designed for metal, may be too intense for other genres
• Four-Conductor Wiring: Offers coil splitting for added versatility

Shop Now: Seymour Duncan Black Winter Humbucker Pickup Set

For those who dwell in the heaviest realms of metal, Seymour Duncan Black Winter pickups provide the brutal, uncompromising tone you need. They cut through the mix with surgical precision, making them a favorite among extreme metal players. If you’re after warmth and subtlety, look elsewhere. Customer Reviews: Users rave about their "savage tone and clarity," perfect for heavy and black metal.

Average customer rating: 4.7/5 stars

Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: This set brings the punch and clarity of '70s rock tones with a modern twist—perfect for versatile players.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico IV Magnets: Provide balanced, articulate tone with a bit more punch
• Medium Output: Great for classic rock but might lack aggression for metal
• Multiple Finishes: Available in gold, nickel and black bobbins for aesthetic variety

Shop Now: Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special Pickup Set

The Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special set is your go-to for capturing the spirit of '70s rock. They offer a balanced, punchy tone that excels in both rhythm and lead work. Perfect for rock and blues players looking for vintage vibe with modern reliability. Customer Reviews: Players love the "balanced, articulate tone," with many noting their versatility across genres.

Average customer rating: 4.8/5 stars

Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Get the gritty, punchy tone of P-90s with a set of humbucker-sized package, perfect for SGs without modification.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico II Magnets: Provide warm, smooth tone with P-90 character
• Humbucker-Sized: Fits standard humbucker routes without modification
• Single-Coil Design: Adds clarity and bite but may introduce hum

Shop Now: Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P-90 Soapbar Single-Coil Pickup Set

For players who love the P-90 sound but don’t want to modify their SG, the Seymour Duncan Phat Cat set is a perfect fit. They deliver the midrange punch and clarity P-90s are known for, all while fitting in humbucker slots. Expect some single-coil hum, but the tonal payoff is worth it. Customer Reviews: Users appreciate the "P-90 punch and clarity," noting they’re perfect for blues and rock.

Average customer rating: 4.7/5 stars

Sheptone Red Headed Stepchild Humbucker Set - 1959 Spec

Why They're Cool: Handwound to vintage '59 specs, these pickups deliver rich, dynamic tone with unparalleled craftsmanship.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico V Magnets: Provide clear highs, balanced mids and tight lows
• Handwound Construction: Meticulous craftsmanship ensures unique tonal character
• Vintage Output: Perfect for classic tones but may lack the aggression for modern metal

Shop Now: Sheptone Red Headed Stepchild Humbucker Pickup Set - 1959 Spec

If you're after boutique quality and vintage tone, the Sheptone Red Headed Stepchild set is hard to beat. These pickups are meticulously crafted to deliver the rich, dynamic tones of late-'50s humbuckers, making them a top choice for blues, rock and jazz players. Customer Reviews: Players rave about the "boutique craftsmanship and vintage tone," with many saying they’re the best pickups they’ve ever played.

Average customer rating: 4.9/5 stars

Final Words

You should now have the info you need to make a decision about whether or not to consider swapping out the pickups in your SG. More importantly, you'll know how to find the best pickups that suit your musical preferences. If you're still making up your mind, you might want to drop by your local Guitar Center and talk with one of our knowledgeable associates or chat with your personal Gear Adviser at our call center to get some extra info and assistance. While you're at your local store, it's also a good idea to check in with the local Guitar Center Repairs team about pickup replacement (plus, swapping pickups is a great time to get that guitar a quality setup).

If this article has piqued your curiosity about pickups in general, you might also want to check out some of our other Riffs articles, including A Guide to Seymour Duncan Pickups or What's the Difference Between Active and Passive Pickups? You might even go whole hog and check out our Ultimate Guide to Gibson Pickups and Best Pickups for Les Paul articles to get more ideas. And, if you haven't bought your SG yet, check out How to Choose the Best SG Guitar. Whatever choice you make, we're here to help you find that path on your musical journey.

Pictured: Gibson Custom 1963 Les Paul SG Custom Reissue Headstock with Gibson Custombucker Pickups

People Also Ask ...

What are the best replacement pickups for a Gibson SG?

The ideal replacement pickups depend on your desired tone and playing style. For a vintage sound, Gibson’s ’57 Classic humbuckers are popular, while the EMG ZW Zakk Wylde 81/85 set suits heavier genres. Exploring different options can help you find the perfect match for your SG.

Is it difficult to change pickups on a Gibson SG?

Changing pickups on a Gibson SG requires basic soldering skills and an understanding of guitar electronics. With proper guidance and patience, many players successfully perform the swap themselves. However, if you’re uncomfortable with the process, the Guitar Center Repairs techs at your local store will be happy to help out.

Will changing pickups affect the value of my Gibson SG?

Modifying your SG with non-original pickups can impact its resale value, especially for vintage models. If maintaining value is a concern, consider keeping the original pickups intact and reversible. Alternatively, retain the original parts to reinstall if needed.

Do I need to modify my SG to fit new pickups?

Most replacement pickups are designed to fit standard SG cavities without modification. However, some pickups, like P-90s or certain active models, may require routing or additional components. Always verify the dimensions and requirements before purchasing.

How do different pickups change the tone of my SG?

Pickups significantly influence your guitar’s tone. Humbuckers typically offer a warm, full sound with reduced hum, while single-coils like P-90s provide brighter, more articulate tones. High-output pickups can drive amplifiers harder, resulting in more distortion, whereas lower-output pickups deliver cleaner sounds.