Which one looks cooler?

[z1n]

Black is my vote but if you decide to lose the Laiho stripes (keeping the bevels black) then I'd consider chrome but no gold.

[Bryan]

Black.

[guitarsjb]

Black

[RobRR]

Black

[jtr]

Gold

[quiksilver]

Black.

[bucknaked31]

How about white pickups with black rings?

[Sunbane]

I would personally not go for the ESP-style thingies, for the same reason I don't want "bullseye" rings on my guitars; it's been done by high profile guitarists - it's their "thing" (even though both graphics existed long before). I don't want to mimic anyone, so the graphic is out.

That's just me though.

As for hardware, I'd vote for gold - even though black will be a lot more durable.

[GoPoundSand]

It looks like I'm in the minority but I like the black hardware.

-GPS

[Extant]

I would personally not go for the ESP-style thingies, for the same reason I don't want "bullseye" rings on my guitars; it's been done by high profile guitarists - it's their "thing" (even though both graphics existed long before). I don't want to mimic anyone, so the graphic is out.

That's kind of why I'm trying to put a bit of a spin on it. I normally shun 'signature artist' stuff like the plague - since, honestly speaking, I'm trying to create my own sound here, not use someone else's signature specced guitar and emulate his tone - but some designs are just really cool. Besides, the pinstripes aren't that obtrusive as, say, Zakk's bullseye design, Kerry's hideous tribal inlays, or anything Lynch has ever had on his guitars.

[usrname]

I liked the second pic of the layout with black hardware, white pickup rings, and black pickups. I would have said gold if it had the thinner pin stripes ala Randy. Good luck, can't wait to see the finished product!

[Vlover]

The white pick up rings look unique and keeps the overall theme of black and white. Go with that

[petedz]

Here's another take FWIW. White headstock, black binding. Sorry 'bout the bad Photoshop.

[petedz]

Better. Mmmm. I'm really starting to like this one.

[followthereaper]

Black.