It would be a big mistake to assume that all humbuckers sound alike. Truth is, there are a number of Gibson humbucking pickups available, and each one has its own distinctive personality. With its "Patent Applied For" decal on the faceplate, the '57 Classic Plus is a near perfect re-creation of a late 1950s humbucker that was slightly overwound, delivering a hotter output along with rich, vintage tone when used in the bridge position. The '57 Classic Plus allows users to overdrive tube preamps without becoming overly strident. It features special Alnico II magnets, vintage enamel coated wire, nickel-plated pole pieces, nickel slugs, maple spacers and two conductor braided wiring. Unlike the originals, today's '57 Classic Plus humbuckers are produced under such strict controls that each one delivers the perfect combination of low end punch and midrange crunch. This one has a nickel plated cover.