Gibson 57 Classic Vintage BK

Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy

Gibson 57 Classic Vintage BK

Gibson

57 Classic Vintage BK

4.5 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 150685
Brand: Gibson
Model: 57 Classic Vintage BK
Price: $152.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The Gibson ’57 Classic Vintage BK is a seriously classy pickup, aiming to capture the magic of those early PAFs. It’s got that creamy, vocal midrange and a touch of sweetness that’s just irresistible for vintage tones. If you’re chasing that authentic Les Paul or SG vibe without a super high-end price tag, this is a fantastic choice.

Product Description

Gibson 57 Classic Vintage BK, Original Gibson Humbucker

  • The first humbucker was the PAF by Seth Lover (the PAF gets its name from the "patent applied for" sticker which was stuck on its underside)
  • and this was subsequently found on the legendary Gibson guitars
  • including Les Paul
  • ES series
  • but also in the exotics like Flying V or Explorer. For many guitarists it is still the best: not a screamer - it is much too classy for that - ​​but it can sing like no other pickup. Nowadays even the tough guys prefer to use the PAF in the neck position
  • because it harmonises so well with a slightly more violent-sounding pickup on the bridge.

, '57 Classic Vintage, Colour: Black (GiiM57R-DB)

PROS
  • • Faithfully recreates the legendary PAF humbucker tone, a benchmark for vintage Gibson.
  • • Alnico V magnet delivers a warm, articulate sound with excellent string definition.
  • • Hand-wound construction ensures consistent quality and nuanced tonal character.
  • • Black Zepyr winding provides a slightly lower output, harmonizing beautifully with hotter pickups.
CONS
  • • Output is relatively low, may lack aggression for modern high-gain styles.
  • • Can be microphonic if cranked too loud, requiring careful amplifier settings.
  • • Limited versatility; shines best in classic rock, blues, and jazz contexts.

Product Video

Key Features

Position Neck or Bridge (versatile for both)
Magnet Alnico V
Output Level 7.5k - 8.5k (balanced output)
DC Resistance 8.25k Ohms (typical range)
Spacing 5/32 in
Mounting Four-hole

Similar Products

Harley Benton SpaceShip 80 Bundle - Guitar Effect Power Supplies

Harley Benton SpaceShip 80 Bundle

Guitar Effect Power Supplies

$219
4.8 Expert Rating
Behringer WING Compact Flyht Pro Bundle - Digital Mixers

Behringer WING Compact Flyht Pro Bundle

Digital Mixers

$2,748
4.8 Expert Rating
Zoom H4essential APH-4e Bundle - Portable Recorders

Zoom H4essential APH-4e Bundle

Portable Recorders

$208
4.8 Expert Rating
Applause Jump Dark Matter - Other Acoustic Guitars

Applause Jump Dark Matter

Other Acoustic Guitars

$362
Acoustic Guitar with Pickup, Type: OM with cutaway, Top: Solid European spruce, Back and...
4.5 Expert Rating
Taylor 814ce Special Edition Sedona - Other Acoustic Guitars

Taylor 814ce Special Edition Sedona

Other Acoustic Guitars

$5,499
*Note:* Register your Taylor guitar to extend your warranty to 12 years.
4.8 Expert Rating
Ibanez GRG320FA-TVT - ST Style Guitars

Ibanez GRG320FA-TVT

ST Style Guitars

$439
Electric Guitar, Body: Poplar, Top: Basswood with Art Grain in flamed maple look, Bolt-on neck:...
4.5 Expert Rating
Ibanez GRGR221PA-AQB Bundle - ST Style Guitars

Ibanez GRGR221PA-AQB Bundle

ST Style Guitars

$325
5 Expert Rating
Ampeg RB-115 Bundle - Solid-State Bass Combos

Ampeg RB-115 Bundle

Solid-State Bass Combos

$792
4.5 Expert Rating

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s a very well-executed recreation, but a true vintage PAF will have subtle variations due to age and manufacturing inconsistencies – this offers more consistent performance.
It’s not ideal for extreme metal. The lower output and vintage voicing will likely get lost in a high-gain setup, lacking the necessary bite and aggression.
The black finish (Zepyr winding) is purely cosmetic; it’s a visual cue indicating a slightly lower output than the cream-colored version.

We use cookies to improve your experience. Learn more