Yeah what amplifiers and pedals are you using? Because I'm also using an all-stock Ibanez GIO and I love the tone (even my bandmates comment that the tone is very nice). I think pickups don't affect the tone very much, which is why for now, I don't quite see the point of boutique / expensive pickups. More important is the amplifier, pedals (if you use pedals) and equalizer settings you're using.