pickup
498T vs Burstbucker 3
The 498T and Burstbucker 3 are both bridge humbuckers, but built for different jobs. The 498T is a hot Alnico V pickup for hard rock; the Burstbucker 3 is an Alnico II vintage-voiced pickup with a bit more push than the 1 and 2.
The Biggest Difference
Choose the 498T for hard-rock and higher-output drive; choose the Burstbucker 3 for vintage PAF tone with a touch of extra heat.
Pickups & Sound
498T: punchy, hot and bright, with modern hard-rock cut. Burstbucker 3: vintage PAF with extra midrange and drive — rawer and less modern.
Features
498T: Alnico V, high output, balanced coils. Burstbucker 3: Alnico II, medium-high output, unbalanced coils.
Which Is Better For…
- Blues
- Burstbucker 3
- Rock
- 498T for hard rock; Burstbucker 3 for classic rock.
- Metal
- 498T
- Jazz
- Neither — neck pickups suit jazz better.
Final Verdict
For hard rock and modern drive, the 498T. For vintage PAF character with a bit of heat, the Burstbucker 3.
FAQ
- Is the 498T hotter than the Burstbucker 3?
- Yes — the 498T is high-output Alnico V; the Burstbucker 3 is medium-high Alnico II.
- Which is better for classic rock?
- The Burstbucker 3 for vintage tone; the 498T for more modern punch.
- Do they use the same magnet?
- No — the 498T is Alnico V, the Burstbucker 3 is Alnico II.
Related Comparisons
'57 Classic vs Burstbucker 2
Choose the '57 Classic for a smooth, balanced vintage PAF; choose a Burstbucker for a rawer, more dynamic vintage tone with slightly more hair.
Burstbucker 1 vs Burstbucker 2
Burstbucker 1 is the neck (lower output); Burstbucker 2 is the bridge (medium output). They're a matched set, not rivals.
Burstbucker 2 vs 490T
Choose Burstbuckers for raw vintage character; choose 490R/490T for a smooth, modern, versatile all-rounder.