Unfortunately i'm a couple hours south of the ole 'Shreve but I'll def have to make a pass next time I'm around that area
You remember Piney Hills in Ruston? That was a kick ass store too (RIP)
I got an alder superstrat recently that came stock with duncan distortions
Sounds great to me tuned low
Part of your problem could be the 12-56 strings to be honest - what's the scale length of your guitar?