PRS McCarty with 57/08 pickup

[Fournij]

Hi

I just own a 2008 McCarty with 57/08 stock pickup. I really love the feeling of the guitar and the acoustic sound, really resonant and full ! It's really good quality instrument. The problem is when I plug it. Is it something I don't understand with thoses pickup ? it's harsh, too mid, lack of definition. It's not my first guitar, I currently have a Les Paul R9 equiped with Joe Bonamassa SD Custom Shop which it sound amazing ! Even with the stock classic 57, my R9 sound better than my McCarty.

I don't want the same tone guitar, but something that can be usefull. I see a lot of good review with the 57/08 and I don't know if I miss something. Height of the pickup ??

I may have a look to Bare Knuckle pickups but I'm obsessed to change them, just to be able to play with this guitar...

thanks

P.S : I also have a CU24 with 59/09 and they are ok to do more heavy stuff

 

[AP515]

The pickups may be too high. If they are too close to the strings they will sound harsh. Here is what the PRS set up guide says about pickup height. You can measure and see if they are too high.

Pickup Height Adjustment

The pickups on your new instrument are fully adjustable by turning the height adjustment screws at each end of the pickup. With the high and low E strings (E and G strings for the Electric Bass) depressed at the last fret the measurement should about 2.5/32 (5/64”) on the treble side and about 3/32” on the bass side of both pickups. You may season to taste if you wish.

 

[Fournij]

measurement from bottom of the string to pole magnet ?

 

[Michael B]

bottom of string to top of the screws

 

[AP515]

Top of adjustable poles. I think that is what both of you are saying.

 

[Fournij]

Hope it will help ! I will try in my studio using my main amp

57/08 has the general review that's a good pickup

Thanks