What are your thoughts on using Gibson's Firebird pickups in a modern metal setting?
I think that they won't sound just like everyone else, so it's a great idea. Forge your own path.
Depends on what you mean by "modern metal."
If you're down tuning, Gibson minibuckers might be very good at retaining clarity. The rest is what you do with the amp
Yes, my intention is to down tune. I already have a drop D tuned standard guitar (well, it's a 25" PRS), a 28" baritone on drop B. I have recently acquired an interesting resin body 25.5" guitar (got for almost nothing) that I intend to tune to drop C. I just may have the opportunity to get a Gibson Firebird 2000 pickup set.Also, for what its worth mini-buckers sound awesome for lower tunings on a baritone at least. I had a Hellcat VI with some Duncan Designed minis and I'll agree they have great clarity though the scale length probably has a good deal to do with that as well. I still say give it a shot and let us know what you find out man.