Trem, I don't think you can go wrong with Seymour Duncan pickups. I have an Invader in my Ibanez, and it is outstanding for rock and metal. My old guitar teacher put a Hot Rails in his Strat, and it sounded fantastic through his Mesa/Boogie combo, although it was a bit brighter than my Invader. GFS makes cheaper facsimiles of both, but I have no experience with them. My other guitar player just bought a Jackson with EMGs, and I really enjoyed the sounds that I was able to get from that guitar, but again, they cost alotta $$$.
Guitars:
Fender 2006 MIM Fender Stratocaster HSS in 3TS
Ibanez RG 570 with a bridge Invader
ESP M II Deluxe with a Tune-o-Matic bridge
Eleanor, the magical, mystical Road Worn wonder Tele
Blackstar HT Club 40