The “Sweet 59 Transition” Set was envisaged alongside German Guitarist Sebastian Schmalz. Seb was looking for a set with swagger and grit while also offering him the dynamic range needed to flex into virtually any Strat-based scenario he found himself in on stage. His comments and feedback led to this crowd pleasing mix of Alnico 2 and 4 with a wide scatter-wind and an output that sits nicely between what one might expect from a late 50s to early 60s Singlecoil Set. The “in-between” positions have plenty of clarity and quack while retaining some girth and are served by a Reverse Wound Reverse Polarity Middle pickup for hum-cancellation.

· BRIDGE AIV +/- 6.6K: This pickup incorporates our favoured Alnico 4 Poles and a slightly tighter scatter pattern in the coil, for a more balanced frequency response. The nicely tuned mid 6k output ensures this pickup has enough drive to refine its high-end, but not so much that it loses any of its treble detail or character.

· MIDDLE AII +/- 5.8k. Switching to the middle pickup is always a favourite here at SUNBEAR, though its sadly often overlooked. Bringing Alnico 2 poles into the mix and a wider scatter gives this pickup an engaging tonality. Its characterful and nicely balanced midrange works well alone or combined.

· NECK AII +/- 5.7k A really classic Alnico 2 based Neck pickup finishes this set with some swagger. This is just pure Jimmy/SRV in character; clear yes but also faintly edgy and hugely responsive to the players attack. Utterly “un-put-downable”.