Need a recommendation for pickups.

I run a PRS Standard 22 (All Mahogany) with the stock Dragon 2 P'ups. My dilemma is that I run through my Engl Ritchie Blackmore 100W -> Genz Benz G-Flex 2x12 and I never really feel like I'm fully driving it.

Friend brought over various guitars of his, including an '82 Gibson Studio LP and an old ass Gibson Explorer. Both had the stock Gibson pickups which sound blistering and allowed for tonal control better than what I'd been used to.

Anyway, I'm looking for pickups that will allow the sensitivity and EQ of my amp to be more intricately controlled. For example, the problem when diming my treble or mids you know is that there is a big difference but the sound and everything else in between isn't too responsive. When I played with his guitars, going from 4-6 was vastly different because the output of the P'ups (I can only assume.) Definately allowed me to get a better sound.

I've played tons of pickup models, used to own an X2n and am avoiding that. Hate EMG's and all other actives for that matter.

I'm looking for a pickup that will allow me the ability of more tonal versatility when I turn down my volume, or when I tune in my EQ and can handle deep drop C tuning and give me a little more mid than treble in the Bridge. I want it to speak.

Dimarzio Evolution.

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I'd have to recommend a full shred from SD.

If its mahogany, then I'd stay away from bassier pickups like the SD Invader. My personal fave of late is the X2N, but to be safe go with the SD distortion.

Excellent suggestions. I've got a few questions, however.

John, you recommended the X2N. I originally owned it in an Ibanez Prestige RG1570 (Basswood /w Bolt-on Maple/Rosewood Fretboard) and it sounded decent. Only reason I would avoid it now is because my PRS is totally different. What do you think? Is that a valid assumption?

Soeru, the evolution looks great. However, the tone chart on the website states that the Bridge version of the pickup has a 6B/6M/6.5T rating. I like these ratings and they seem like a balanced pickup with a very small emphasis on the lower end. The other pickups recommended by other people tended to have the same B and M ratings but the Treble was 8 or higher. I want to avoid a pick-up that sparkles as my amp has sort of a natural brightness to it already. I'd be eager to hear valid sound clips of this, can you send me any or recommend any besides the Dimarzio site?

Lord_Diemos, the full shred looks decent although there is no midrange emphasis.

Thanks for your input guys.

If anyone reading this post knows how much of a role DC Resistance will play in the sound of the pick-ups, please enlighten me.

One of the ultimate pickups for a PRS is the Bareknuckle Crawlers. Period. They are pricey, but well worth it.

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