Ever think of upgrading your volume/tone pots/capacitors rather than a pick-up swap out? You may want to investigate this option. I just switched out the stock volume/tone pots & capacitors with vintage replacements from RS Guitarworks on a Les Paul Studio. Best $100 bucks I have ever spent on an upgrade... Even the guitar tech that did the installation can not believe the sound and tone of this guitar. Next best thing to vintage tone without shelling out the major bucks for guitar$ with inferior electronics that cost three times as much. Even the guys that I jam with can not believe the tone coming out of this "Studio". I am planning to do the same with a Mexican Tele when I find the one that has that special feel. When I find it I may do the pick-ups (Lindy Fralin 8-) as well. I hope this gives you some thoughts on other less expensive options in your quest for tone...