P/U advice in a Poplar American/Nashville B-Bender

[mfanch]

Im new to this whole pickup swapping thing so any advice is appreciatted.

I just got a 2005 fender b-bender and don't really like the the bridge pickup. I am looking for something that has more of that traditional country sound. I have a pair of the Antiquities that were given to me but am not sure how they will sound since the benders body is poplar. Does anyone have any experience with this combination good or bad? or have any suggestions for a pickup that would sound good in a b-bender or poplar tele.

[Darrell]

I "had" a poplar tele, I have a b-bender (But it is in Alder), and I have an Antiquities II bridge pup. So I have some level of experience with what you are looking for, but not exactly.

The Antiquities line are about as fine a pick up as you can find. I think you will find a vast improvement putting that pup in your guitar.

Poplar is not a bad wood, it will lend itself to a little more compressed sound, which is actually somewhat indicative to Country music. Ie...it isn't gonna hurt you.

After you make that pup swap, and if you still don't get what you want...try a good set up.

[Darrell]

And if you don't think you can get good Country tone out of Fender b-bender...then you need to go listen to Doug Seven.

Just remember, everyone will debate tone, but a lot of it comes from the amp, any pedals in the mix, and most importantly...your hands.

[Don Miller]

The antiquities should do you well..I currently have a pair in my Nashville West Clarence White guitar clone..mine are Antiquity I's..a tele in the bridge and strat in the neck slot.

The stock pickups in the Fender B Benders leave a little to be desired.The bridge pickup doesnt have the plate under the coil that gives the tele twang.

[Darrell]

I have the Antiquities II in my b-bender. It is a smoother version of the Vintage 54.