The Best Guitar Pickups: Learn All You Need to Know About Them.
Getting the best tone out of your guitar starts with the right pickup. Are you wondering what the best guitar pickups are? You’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of pickups available for electric guitar, discuss the features of each type, and finish with a list of some favorite pickups from budget to top-of-the-line options. Let’s get started!
What Are Guitar Pickups?
Guitar pickups are essentially small magnets that capture the sound of your guitar strings and translate it into an electrical signal. These pickups can then be amplified to create the sound you hear out of an amplifier.
In a standard electric guitar setup, the pickups you will find are located at the bridge and neck position of the guitar, with a selection switch that allows you to choose between either position, or both.
Types of Electric Guitar Pickups
When it comes to types of pickups, there are three main choices available to the electric guitar player – single-coil pickups, humbucking pickups, and active pickups. Let’s take a look at each type in turn.
Single-coil Pickups
Single-coil pickups are the oldest type of pickup, and have a classic tone that is often described as bright and twangy. They are constructed from a magnet and coil of wire, and have higher output compared to other pickup types.
Single-coil pickups are found on guitars like the Fender Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Jazzmaster.
Humbucking Pickups
Humbucking pickups, or humbuckers, are the most common type of pickup found on electric guitars. They are made up of two single-coil pickups wired in opposite directions, canceling out hum and unwanted noise while still delivering a full, rich tone.
Humbuckers are favored by players who need a quieter signal, such as jazz players and metal heads alike. Most Gibson and Epiphone guitars are fitted with humbucking pickups.
Active Pickups
Active pickups are gaining in popularity, as they offer a higher output than single-coil pickups and a lot of versatility. These pickups are powered by a small battery, which allows for more aggressive sounds and a wider frequency range.
The active pickups are favored by metal guitarists, for their searing and heavy tone. However, it’s important to note that active pickups require more maintenance, as the battery needs to be changed every six months or so.
The Best Guitar Pickups
Now that you know what to look for in a guitar pickup, let’s take a look at some of the best pickups out there.
Budget Pickup: Fender Original ’57/’62 Stratocaster Pickups
If you’re on a budget, the Fender Original ’57/’62 Stratocaster Pickups are a great starting point. These pickups are based on vintage Fender pickups, and they provide you with that classic Fender Strat tone.
Mid-Range Pickup: Seymour Duncan SH-2N and TB-14 Pickup Set
It’s hard to beat the Seymour Duncan SH-2N and TB-14 Pickup Set for the price. This pickup set includes both a neck and bridge pickup, and it provides you with an articulate and versatile tone.
This pickup set is perfect for any style of music, from rock to jazz, and is a great choice for those who want a bit more from their pickups than just a vintage tone.
High-End Pickup: DiMarzio Virtual Vintage Heavy Blues 2 Pickup Set
Finally, for those looking for the best of the best, the DiMarzio Virtual Vintage Heavy Blues 2 Pickup Set is one of the finest and most sought-after pickups on the market. This pickup set is made with premium USA-made alnico magnets, and it delivers a balanced and powerful tone.
This pickup set is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their guitar.
Conclusion
Now that you know what types of pickups are out there, and have a good idea of some of the best pickups on the market, it’s time to find the perfect pickup for your guitar. With a bit of research and experimentation, you’ll soon be playing the best sounding guitar you’ve ever heard! So, what are you waiting for? Get picking!
Finding the right pickup for your style of playing can make all the difference in your sound. Whether you’re looking for a bright and twangy single-coil tone, a full and rich humbucker tone, or a searing and heavy active pickup tone, there is something out there for everyone. So, go forth and explore the world of guitar pickups…the possibilities are truly endless!
Are you ready to rock with the best guitar pickups? Then go out and make your guitar sing!