Quote Originally Posted by Spudman
When I was on the road many years ago my main guitar started sounding crappier and crappier. I had no idea that jacking the pickups up near the strings would do that. Since then I'm careful to keep them low on Strats. The guitars just seem a bit more alive when I do.
Yep, even with my Area 61s theoretically you can get them up close and personal with the strings. Nevertheless, I just think they sound better backed off. The Fender or pickup designer height recommendations are just that--recommendations. Rough guesstimates. The rest is up to you and your ears.