Electric Guitar Pickups – The Ultimate Guide: Choosing the Best for Your Sound

Electric guitar pickups are the heart of your sound. They turn string vibrations into electric signals that create those excellent tones. The right pickup can make a huge difference in how your guitar sounds and plays.

There are many types of pickups out there. Single coils give bright, crisp tones, while humbuckers offer fatter, warmer sounds. P90s fall somewhere in between. Each type shapes your tone in unique ways.

Picking the best pickup for you depends on the music you play. Blues players might prefer vintage-style single-coils. Metal guitarists often go for high-output humbuckers. It’s all about finding what fits your style.

With so many options, you can dial in the perfect tone for any genre.

If you’re new to electric guitars and want to learn more about the importance of pickups, this guide is for you.

At the bottom of this post, you’ll also find several links about specific topics about pickups if you want to dig deeper into them.

Key Takeaways

Guitar pickups turn string vibrations into electric signals;

Different pickup types produce distinct tones;

Your music style should guide your pickup choice.

Understanding the Basics of Electric Guitar Pickups

Electric guitar pickups are key to your sound. They turn string vibrations into electrical signals. Let’s explore how pickups work, the different types, and what they’re made of.

The Role of Pickups in Guitar Tone

Pickups are like tiny microphones for your guitar strings. They catch the vibrations and turn them into electricity. This signal then goes to your amp, which makes it loud.

Different pickups give different tones. Some make your guitar sound bright and clear, while others make it warm and thick. You can change your tone by switching pickups or adjusting their height.

Pickups also affect how long your notes ring out. Some pickups help notes last longer, while others make them fade faster. This can change how your guitar feels to play.

Types of Electric Guitar Pickups

There are two main types of pickups: single-coil and humbucker. Single-coils are thin and give a bright, crisp sound. They’re great for clean tones but can be noisy.

Humbuckers are wider and have two coils. They cancel out noise and give a fatter, warmer sound. They’re awesome for rock and heavy styles.

Some guitars have both types. This lets you switch between different sounds. There are also special pickups like P90s, which are between single coils and humbuckers in sound.

Closeup of two Tom Anderson single coil pickups on a Schecter Hollywood Custom ltd electric guitar.

Pickup Construction and Materials

Pickups have a few main parts. There’s a magnet (or magnets), wire coils, and a base plate. The magnets create a magnetic field around the strings. When you pluck a string, it disturbs this field.

The wire coils sense these changes and turn them into an electrical signal. More wire windings usually mean a stronger, louder signal.

Different materials affect the sound, too. Alnico magnets give a vintage tone, while ceramic ones are more modern and powerful. The type of wire and how it’s wound also matter.

Some pickups have adjustable pole pieces. These are tiny screws under each string. You can raise or lower them to balance the volume of each string.

Types of Pickups Explained

Electric guitar pickups come in several main types. Each type has its own sound and feel. Let’s look at the most common pickup styles and how they work.

Single-Coil Pickups

Single-coil pickups are thin and bright-sounding. They have one magnet wrapped in wire. This design picks up string vibrations and turns them into electrical signals.

Single coils give you a crisp, clear tone. They’re great for country, blues, and classic rock. But they can be noisy and sometimes make a buzzing sound.

Famous guitars with single coils include the Fender Stratocaster and Telecaster. Many players love the twangy, spanky tone of single coils. They cut through a mix well.

Single coils are simple but powerful. They let you hear each string clearly, making them good for complex chords and fast playing.

Humbucker Pickups

Humbuckers have two coils side by side. This design cuts down on noise. That’s why they’re called “humbuckers” – they “buck” the hum!

These pickups sound fatter and louder than single coils. They give you a warm, thick tone. Humbuckers are popular in rock, metal, and jazz.

Gibson guitars often use humbuckers. The Les Paul is a famous example. Humbuckers can handle high gain and distortion well, making them great for heavy styles.

Some humbuckers can be split, so you can use just one coil. It gives you a single coil sound when you want it.

P90 Pickups

P90s are like a mix between single coils and humbuckers. They’re bigger than single coils but still have just one coil.

P90s have a raw, gritty sound. They’re louder and fatter than single coils but not as smooth as humbuckers.

These pickups are great for blues and garage rock. They can do clean tones and handle distortion, too. P90s give you a punchy midrange.

Gibson introduced the P90s in the 1940s. You can find them on guitars like the Les Paul Junior and SG Special.

Active vs. Passive Pickups

Most pickups are passive, meaning they work without extra power. Active pickups need a battery to work.

Passive pickups have a warm, natural sound and respond well to your playing. Many classic guitars use passive pickups.

Active pickups are louder and clearer, with less noise. Metal players often like active pickups because they’re good for high-gain sounds.

With active pickups, you don’t lose signal over long cables. But you need to change the battery sometimes. Some players find active pickups less dynamic.

How Pickups Influence Guitar Sound

Closeup of a HSS Lindy Fralin pickup set on a custom-built electric guitar.

Pickups are the heart of your electric guitar’s sound. Different types of pickups can make your guitar sound bright, warm, or anywhere in between.

Magnet Types and Their Tonal Impact

The magnets in your pickups play a big role in shaping your guitar’s tone. Alnico magnets, made from aluminum, nickel, and cobalt, are common.

They give a warm, vintage sound that many players love. Ceramic magnets offer a brighter, more aggressive tone.

Some popular magnet types:

Alnico II: Soft, sweet tone;

Alnico V: Stronger, more defined sound;

Ceramic: Bright and punchy.

Try different magnets to find the sound you like best. There’s no right or wrong choice – it’s all about what sounds good to your ears!

The Effect of Pickup Position

Where your pickups sit on the guitar body also affects your sound.

Pickups near the bridge give you a bright, twangy tone. Move towards the neck, and things get warmer and fuller.

Pickup position affects your tone like this:

Bridge pickup: Sharp, crisp sound;

Middle pickup: Balanced tone;

Neck pickup: Warm, smooth sound.

Many guitars let you mix and match pickup combinations. This gives you tons of tonal options to play with. Have fun experimenting!

Output Levels and Their Influence on Sound

Pickup output is about how strong the signal your pickup sends to your amp.

Low-output pickups give you a cleaner, more transparent sound, while high-output pickups push your amp harder, giving you more distortion and sustain.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Low output: Clean, clear tone;

Medium output: Versatile, good for many styles;

High output: Great for rock and metal.

Your playing style matters, too. A lower output pickup might suit you better if you like to play hard. Soft players might prefer higher output for more oomph.

Pickup output is just one part of your tone. Your amp, effects, and playing style all work together to create your sound.

Selecting the Right Pickup for Your Style

Choosing the perfect pickup can make your guitar sing. Let’s explore how to match pickups to your sound and playing style.

Differences Between Vintage and Modern Pickups

Vintage pickups often have a warmer, rounder tone. They use older materials like Alnico magnets. These pickups can give your guitar that classic rock or blues vibe.

Modern pickups are typically brighter and louder. They use newer tech like ceramic magnets. If you play heavier styles, these might be your go-to.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Vintage: Warm, soft, lower output;

Modern: Bright, punchy, higher output.

Your choice depends on the sound you want. Try both to see what fits your style best.

Closeup of a DiMarzio Breed singe coil pickup on an Ibanez Industrial Jem BSB electric guitar.

Best Pickups for Various Music Genres

Different music needs different pickups. Here’s a guide:

Blues: Single-coils or P90s for that twangy tone;

Rock: Humbuckers for thick, meaty sound;

Jazz: Warm humbuckers or jazz-style single-coils;

Country: Bright single-coils for twang;

Metal: High-output humbuckers for aggressive tones.

These are just starting points. Many guitar players mix and match for their own sound.

Customizing Pickups for Personal Taste

You can tweak pickups to fit your exact needs.

Some ways to do this:

Adjust pickup height;
Change magnet types;
Swap out pole pieces.

Pickup makers often offer custom options, too.

You can choose things like:

Winding style;

Magnet strength;

Coil configuration.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Your perfect tone might be a custom pickup away!

Vintage pickups often have a warmer, rounder tone. They use older materials like Alnico magnets

Installing and Adjusting Your Pickups

Putting in new pickups and getting them just right can make your guitar sound amazing. Let’s look at how to do this step-by-step.

Installation Basics

First, you’ll need some tools. Grab a screwdriver, wire cutters, and soldering iron.

Take off the strings and remove the old pickups. Be careful not to scratch your guitar!

Next, put the new pickups in place. Make sure they fit snugly.

Now, it’s time to connect the wires. Each pickup has two wires – one “hot” and one “ground”.

Solder them to the right spots on your guitar’s controls.

Here’s a quick checklist:

Unscrew old pickups;

Place new pickups;

Solder wires;

Test connections.

Take your time and double-check everything. A rushed job can lead to buzzing or no sound at all!

Closeup of a Tom Anderson humbucker pickup on a Schecter Hollywood Custom ltd electric guitar.

Fine-Tuning Pickup Height and Balance

Now that your pickups are in let’s make them sound great.

Pickup height affects tone and volume. Too high, and you might get unwanted noise. Too low, and your sound will be weak.

Start by setting all pickups about 1/8 inch from the strings when pressed at the last fret. Use a ruler to measure.

Adjust each pickup separately, listening for changes in tone and volume.

Try this trick: Play each string open, then fretted at the 12th fret. They should sound equally loud. If not, tweak the pickup height until they do.

Small changes can make a big difference. Move pickups just a little at a time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t work right away. Don’t worry! Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

No sound: Check your wiring. Make sure all connections are solid;
Buzzing: Your pickup might be too close to the strings. Lower it a bit;
Weak signal: The pickup could be too far from the strings. Raise it slightly;
Uneven volume: Adjust individual pole pieces on the pickup. These are the small screws on top.

If you hear a weird hum, try shielding your guitar’s cavities. This can cut down on unwanted noise.

Still having trouble? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. A local guitar tech can spot issues you might miss.

Maintaining and Upgrading Pickups

Taking care of your guitar pickups is key to keeping your sound awesome. Sometimes, you might want to change things up with new pickups or covers.

Cleaning and Care for Longevity

Your pickups need some TLC to stay in good shape. Dust and grime can mess with your sound, so regular cleaning is necessary.

After playing, wipe down your pickups with a soft, dry cloth. A slightly damp cloth works well for tougher dirt. Just be careful not to get water near the electronics!

Pickup height is also super important. You might get unwanted noise if they’re too close to the strings. Too far, and your sound could be weak.

Adjust them with a screwdriver, aiming for 2-3mm from the strings when pressed at the last fret.

Keep an eye out for any loose connections or weird noises. If something seems off, it might be time to see a pro.

When to Consider a Pickup Upgrade

Sometimes, your current pickups just don’t cut it anymore. Here are some signs it might be time for new pickups:

Your tone lacks punch or clarity;

You’re after a totally different style of music;

Your pickups are making strange noises or cutting out.

Changing pickups can really transform your guitar’s sound. But remember, it’s not always necessary. Sometimes, a good setup or new strings can make a big difference, too.

Options for Pickup Covers and Aesthetics

Wooden cover for a Lindy Fralin humbucker pickup.

Pickup covers aren’t just for looks – they can affect your sound too. Metal covers can give a warmer tone, but removing them might make your sound brighter.

Here are some cool options:

Chrome or nickel: Classic look, slight tone dampening;

Gold: Fancy look, like chrome sound-wise;

Plastic: Lightweight, less effect on tone;

A plastic pickup cover on an Ibanez humbucker for a S540 electric guitar.

No covers: Brightest sound, raw look.

You can even get custom covers with cool designs or colors. Just make sure they fit your pickup size and style.

Changing covers is easier than swapping whole pickups. It’s fun to freshen up your guitar’s look and tweak your tone.

Famous Brand Pickups

Electric guitar pickups come in many flavors. Top brands have shaped the sound of rock, blues, and more.

Here are some big names in pickups and what makes them special.

Fender

Fender pickups are known for their bright, clear tone. The single-coil design gives that classic twang. Think Stratocaster and Telecaster sounds.

Popular Fender pickups:

Texas Special

Noiseless

Custom Shop

These pickups can be noisy and pick up hum. But that’s part of their charm for many players. To keep them sounding great, wipe them down after playing. This removes sweat and grime.

Gibson

Gibson is famous for the humbucker pickup. It cancels out noise while giving a fat, warm tone. The PAF (Patent Applied For) started it all in the 1950s.

Key Gibson pickups:

’57 Classic

Burstbucker

490T/498R

Gibson pickups often come with covers. These protect the coils but can affect the sound. Some players remove them for a brighter tone. Be careful if you try this – damaging the pickup is easy.

Seymour Duncan

Seymour Duncan offers a huge range of replacement pickups. They make something for every style and guitar type. Their pickups are known for quality and consistency.

Popular Seymour Duncan models:

’59

Pearly Gates

Seymour Duncan pickups are great for upgrades. They can breathe new life into an old guitar. When installing, make sure to match the pickup height to your strings. This affects volume and tone.

DiMarzio

DiMarzio was one of the first aftermarket pickup makers. It’s known for high-output pickups that drive amps hard, and rock and metal players love them.

Stand-out DiMarzio pickups:

Super Distortion

PAF Pro

Air Norton

DiMarzio uses different magnet types to shape the sound. Alnico and ceramic magnets are common. Each has its own character. Try both to see what you like best.

EMG

EMG is known for its active pickups. These have a built-in preamp for a strong, clear signal. They’re popular in heavy rock and metal.

Key EMG pickups:

Active pickups need a battery. Unplug your guitar when not playing. This saves battery life. Also, keep a spare handy for gigs.

Bare Knuckle

Bare Knuckle is a newer brand from the UK. It makes hand-wound pickups. Each pickup is made to order.

Notable Bare Knuckle pickups:

Nailbomb

Warpig

The Mule

These pickups aren’t cheap, but many players swear by them. They offer pickup covers in cool designs. This lets you customize your guitar’s look.

Short History of the Electric Guitar Pickup

Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane.

It all started in the 1920s and 30s. Musicians wanted their guitars to be louder. They tried all sorts of things, even putting telephone transmitters in their instruments!

In 1931, a breakthrough happened. George Beauchamp and Adolph Rickenbacker created the first electric guitar pickup. It used magnets and coiled wire to change string vibrations into electrical signals. Pretty nifty, right?

This invention sparked a revolution in music. Suddenly, guitars could be heard over other instruments. Rock ‘n’ roll was just around the corner!

Different types of pickups soon followed:

Single-coil: Bright and crisp sound;

Humbucker: Fuller, warmer tone;

P90: A mix between single-coil and humbucker.

Each pickup type gives your guitar its own particular voice. It’s like choosing between different flavors of ice cream – they’re all good, just different!

Pickup technology keeps improving. You can find pickups made with rare earth magnets or even digital modeling. The choices are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of electric guitar pickups available?

You’ve got a few main types of pickups to choose from.

Single-coil pickups give you that bright, twangy sound. Humbuckers offer a fatter, warmer tone. Then there are P90s, which sit between the two.

Active pickups use a battery for more output and less noise. Passive pickups don’t need a battery and give you a more natural sound.

Can you explain the difference between humbucker and single-coil pickups?

Single coils have one magnet wrapped in wire. They’re known for their crisp, clear tone. But they can be noisy.

Humbuckers have two coils side-by-side. This cuts down on noise (hence the name). They sound fuller and louder than single coils.

Think of it like this: single-coils are like a sharp cheddar, while humbuckers are more like a creamy brie. Both tasty, just different!

What are some of the best guitar pickups for metal music?

You want pickups that can handle high gain without getting muddy for metal.

EMG active pickups are popular for their high output and low noise.

Seymour Duncan’s JB model is a classic passive pickup for metal. It’s got a hot output but keeps your tone clear.

DiMarzio Super Distortion is another excellent choice. It was one of the first high-output pickups and still rocks today.

How do electric guitar pickup selectors work?

Pickup selectors let you choose which pickups are active. You’ll find a switch with 3 or 5 positions on most guitars.

In the middle position, you get both pickups on. The other positions turn on just one pickup at a time.

Some guitars have more complex switching. These let you combine pickups in different ways for more tonal options.

Which pickups were used by iconic guitarists like Steve Vai and Kurt Cobain?

Steve Vai is known for using DiMarzio pickups. He even has his own signature models. These help him get his wild, expressive sound.

Kurt Cobain often used stock pickups in his guitars. His famous Fender Jaguar had DiMarzio humbuckers. Meanwhile, his Mustang had standard single coils.

Great tone comes from more than just pickups. Playing style, amps, and effects all play a big part, too!