Gibson IM98T-ZB 498T Hot Alnico Bridge Pickup, Zebra

The mid to late 1960's saw a very new type of music coming from the clubs of England. It was an whole new interpretation of the blues, much harder and definitely louder than anything before. Players were now demanding more powerful amplifiers with increased volume outputs which led to a need for a more versatile pickup that could prevent microphonic feedback at such high volume levels. Gibson's answer was the revolutionary 490T and 490R pickups (“T” for treble, and “R” for rhythm), which had the traditional characteristics of the original “Patent Applied For” pickups.

First, a four-conductor wiring scheme allowed the 490s to be connected to any push/pull knob, allowing players to split the coils and increase versatility. Gibson also introduced wax potting, which did away with any air space, minimalizing microphonic feedback. A high-output version of the 490T, this 498T humbucker combines the more powerful response of an Alnico V magnet with additional matched windings on each coil, which emphasises upper midrange frequencies for enhanced crunch and sustain. The 498T is perfect for any hard rock application, easily overdriving amplifiers to boost any guitar’s power and presence. The pole pieces on the 498T are also aligned a little further apart to accommodate the slightly wider string spacing at the bridge.