Gibson 490R GH
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Gibson
490R GH
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
These 490R GH pickups are a solid upgrade for Gibson guitars, offering a vintage-inspired tone with a touch more bite than the Classic 57. They’re fantastic for rock, blues, and classic country players who want that warm, vocal quality with a little extra punch—a really great, affordable choice.
Product Description
Gibson 490R GH, Pickup
- Gibson counts the P 490 pickups to the modern classics
- which is also a good sound description for these parts known from many current Gibson guitars. The starting point was the legendary PAF (now available as Classic 57); this one got slightly more high mids
- so that it becomes even more assertive. With the alnico 2 magnet
- however
- the typical singing sound is always guaranteed.
- Humbucker
- The modern equivalent to the Classic 57
- The 4-wire cable enables various switching variants
- With vintage alnico magnets
- Sound characteristics: Singing lead sounds and powerful rhythm sounds
- Colour: Gold
PROS
- • Alnico 2 magnet delivers a warm, singing sustain characteristic of vintage pickups
- • 4-wire design enables coil-splitting for added tonal versatility
- • Increased high-mids offer more clarity and cut than a Classic '57
- • Gold color provides a visually appealing, classic aesthetic
CONS
- • Can be a bit noisy at higher gain settings, especially with single-coiling
- • Output isn't as hot as some modern high-output pickups
- • Limited versatility for heavily distorted or modern genres
Product Video
Key Features
Position
Bridge
Magnet
Alnico 2
Output Level
8.5
DC Resistance
8.25kΩ
Spacing
50.5mm
Mounting
4-hole
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*Note:* Register your Taylor guitar to extend your warranty to 12 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 490R GH has a slightly more aggressive high-midrange response, offering a more assertive sound while retaining the Classic 57’s core warmth and singing character.
Yes, the 4-wire design allows for effective coil-splitting, providing a brighter, more Strat-like tone, although the single-coil character is a bit thicker than a typical Strat pickup.
While versatile, the 490R GH’s output is moderate; players seeking a super-high-gain, aggressive tone might find them lacking.
