Really like that AL. On my list to pick up a SSS AL. I can't really advise on pups though. What I like you may hate. I actually love the pups on the AL.
Hey I'm really pleased that you got (and are getting) your guitar to sound right.
I will never be without my SSS AL ... ... ... ... ... but let the total truth be known..
I played a Les Paul for 40 years (well being a Kossoff fan ya would!!!).. and I used Humbuckers all that time.
I totally went against that in 2005 when I got my Al. There are still times when I miss the "HH nuances" that the
SSS can't deliver - but the SSS gives me so much more!
Wow that is gorgeous! And I am thoroughly envious.
Try some Area '67s or some injectors. In my AL I have 67s in the neck & middle and an injector in the bridge. Beautiful big cleans in the neck and the bridge has a wonderful dirty tone whether slightly overdriven or with full on über gain (where it really comes to life!). Works for me. YMMV