Hi, im currently installing a pair of Breed HBs in my RG1570z but i want to change the stock middle pickup also. I like vintage sounding single coils and first on my list is the True velvet middle but im not really sure if it will be too "weak" for the HBs. Next on my list are FS-1 and the red velvet, which one do you think it will be the best match for the breeds? thanks for your help!

The Fender Texas Special is the best sounding single coil I've ever owned.
They have the real Strat tone with lots of output.

The Fender Texas Special is the best sounding single coil I've ever owned.
They have the real Strat tone with lots of output.
Dit Doe..........

I took the S1 pickup out of my Jem505 and put the EVO single coild and the was not a dramatic change...not like taking out a USA pick out of a strat and putting in a Texas Special.

I have a Blue Velvet in my 570 and I think it sounds awesome. I don't think they make this one anymore. However, when Sebastian gives advice it is best to listen. The guy has a good ear for tone and lots of experience with equipment. Also he has lots of skill and training as a musician in many genres.

Chris, you made me blush.

LOL... just telling the truth Sebastian!

HS-3 is the best single coil I've ever played.
I do like Texas guitar players and the idea of trying something more vintage. Maybe I'll give the Texas Special a try.
The above are two different sounds I think. I think finding a good single for an HSH guitar can open the doors wide on tonal possibilities and really bring character to your ax.

I had a bad experience with a True Velvet in basswood one time. It sounded nothing like my RG8570, so the Red Velvet might be a better option for you.

The most versatile H-S-H Ibanez I have is my old RG550RFR.

Tone Zone in the bridge
Texas Special in the middle
FRED in the neck

What does the Fred have to offer?

I have Breeds in one of my guitars, went with an HS-2 in the middle, compliments them well......

I don't think many people think of using a FRED for a neck pickup.
It is very clicky and chippy like the PAF Pro in the neck.
Its just like a PAF Pro with a little more mid.
Its very warm too.
It all depends on the tone your after.

Try a single-sized humbucker & wire it as parallel. I put a Chopper in my HSH RG.
Heavy twang & hum cancelling as well

love the fred in the neck with basswood.

i'd go chopper or cruiser in the mid for the power, but tone would be vintagey.
fwiw, the ibanez S1 has a lot of power for being a single coil. in all actuality, it is my favorite oem single coil. it has output and tone, so you may want to see how it acts with your breeds as the breeds aren't super high output.

rich