I have found it makes me a better player. Yes, it will be frustrating at first. But you will reap the rewards if you stick to it. Seriously, the tone is worth it. There is nothing like an ultralead being played by someone with a strong/accurate picking hand.
I can't tell you what pickup will "relax" the feel of the amp. Not sure you can. It is what it is, but it has a dedicated following of players who will say the same thing I am. It will make you play better, reward you with a crushing tone, and give you confidence to play harder/better...total vicious cycle.