Gibson launches ELEV8 humbuckers built around Alnico 8 magnets

Gibson has launched the ELEV8 family of aftermarket humbuckers, a new pickup platform that uses Alnico 8 magnets for the first time in the company's pickup history. The line follows the debut of ELEV8 pickups in Gibson's Victory baritone and now makes the design available separately.

The range comes in Standard, Plus and Underwound versions, all with four-conductor wiring. Guitar World reports that the Standard is rated at 10k ohms, while the Plus is overwound to 15k ohms for a tighter, higher-output bridge voice; the Underwound version is aimed more toward the neck position and a more vintage character.

The launch moves Gibson further into modern high-gain territory without abandoning the basic humbucker format that defines much of its electric-guitar history.