Top 10 best Electric Guitar Pickups & Pickup Covers products

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How to Choose the Electric Guitar Pickups & Pickup Covers

Everything You Need To Know About Electric Guitar Pickups

Electric Guitar Pickups

Electric guitar pickups are a fundamental component of an electric guitar, responsible for converting string vibrations into electrical signals that can be amplified and heard through speakers. These devices are crucial in shaping the tone and sound of an electric guitar, making them a key focus for musicians, enthusiasts, and manufacturers.

Understanding Electric Guitar Pickups

What Is A Electric Guitar Pickup?

An electric guitar pickup is a fundamental component of an electric guitar that captures the vibrations of the strings and converts them into electrical signals. This device essentially "picks up" the sound produced by the vibrating strings and transmits it to an amplifier or other sound equipment.

Electric guitar pickups significantly contribute to a player's tone and play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound of the instrument. Different pickups, such as single-coil or humbucker pickups, offer distinct tonal characteristics, affecting the guitar's sound quality, clarity, and even its susceptibility to interference or noise. Players often choose pickups based on the musical genre they play and the specific sound they wish to achieve.

How Pickups Work

Pickups consist of a magnet or series of magnets wrapped with a coil of wire. When the guitar strings vibrate over these magnets, they disrupt the magnetic field, inducing a small electrical current in the coil. This current is then sent through the guitar's electronics, and eventually to an amplifier, where it is converted into sound.

Factors Affecting Pickup Sound

Magnet Types

Different materials and types of magnets, such as Alnico and ceramic, significantly influence the pickup's sound. Alnico magnets are known for their warm, vintage tone, whereas ceramic magnets produce a stronger, clearer, and sometimes more aggressive sound.

Coil Wire

The gauge and composition of wire used in the coil can impact the pickup's output and tonal characteristics. Thicker wire tends to produce a higher output and can result in a darker, more powerful sound, while thinner wire might offer a clearer, more articulate tone.

Pickup Position

The placement of pickups on the guitar also plays a crucial role in tonal variation. Pickups near the bridge offer a brighter sound, while those near the neck provide a warmer and more rounded tone.

Customization and Modifications

Guitarists often modify their instruments by changing pickups to achieve specific tones. Some even mix different types of pickups on one guitar for versatile sound options. Additionally, aftermarket pickup manufacturers offer a wide array of options, allowing players to tailor their instruments to their preferences.

Choosing The Right Electric Guitar Pickup

Choosing the right electric guitar pickup is a crucial decision for any guitarist. The pickup is the heart of an electric guitar, responsible for converting string vibrations into electrical signals, ultimately shaping the instrument's tone and character. With an array of pickup types, designs, and specifications available, selecting the ideal one can significantly impact the sound and performance of your instrument. Here are several essential factors to consider when choosing an electric guitar pickup.

Pickup Types

  • Single-Coil: Single-coil pickups offer a bright, clear, and articulate sound. They are known for their crisp tones and are often found in guitars such as the Fender Stratocaster. However, they are more prone to picking up interference or hum.
  • Humbucker: Humbuckers provide a thicker, warmer, and more powerful sound. They were developed to eliminate the hum present in single-coil pickups by using two coils that cancel out interference. Humbuckers are commonly associated with Gibson guitars and are preferred for heavier genres.
  • P-90: P-90 pickups offer a middle ground between single-coils and humbuckers. They provide a balanced, punchy sound, and are favored for their unique tonal characteristics.

Sound Preference

Consider the genre and style of music you'll primarily play. Different pickups suit various musical genres; for example, single-coils are favored in genres like blues and surf, while humbuckers are well-suited for rock and metal.

Magnet Types

Pickups use different types of magnets like Alnico and ceramic. Alnico magnets generally offer a warmer and more vintage tone, while ceramic magnets tend to produce a more aggressive, powerful sound.

Output Level

Pickups vary in their output levels, affecting the guitar's overall volume and how hard they drive the amplifier. Higher output pickups can push amps harder and yield more distortion.

Pickup Configuration

Consider the pickup configuration on the guitar - whether it's a single pickup, two pickups, or a combination (e.g., bridge, neck, and middle pickups on a Stratocaster). Different configurations offer diverse tonal possibilities.

Wiring and Controls

Some pickups are wired to allow for coil-splitting, series/parallel switching, or phase inversion, providing additional tonal versatility. Consider the controls and wiring options that could expand your sonic palette.

Playing Style

Your playing style influences the pickup choice. For instance, if you're into intricate fingerpicking, a bright and clear single-coil might be suitable. If you prefer heavy riffing and distortion, a high-output humbucker might be more fitting.

Guitar Body Wood

The wood of the guitar body can interact differently with various pickups, influencing the overall tone. For instance, a brighter pickup might balance well with a warmer tonewood.

Cost Of A Pickup

The cost of pickups varies significantly, spanning from $30 to $300 or beyond, contingent upon factors such as quality, materials, and brand. For beginners, opting for a more affordable pickup is advisable, allowing the opportunity to explore preferences without incurring significant costs. However, if aiming for a particular sound, investing a bit more might be necessary.

Emerging Technologies and Innovations

The world of electric guitar pickups has seen continuous innovation. Companies have explored noiseless single-coil designs, active pickups that use an onboard preamp for increased signal strength and tonal shaping, and piezo pickups that capture acoustic-like tones.

Conclusion

Electric guitar pickups play a crucial role in defining the sonic character of an electric guitar. Familiarity with how they operate, the distinctions among different types, and how materials and placement affect tone empowers guitarists to thoughtfully select their instrument's sound. Whether drawn to the classic allure of single-coils, the robustness of humbuckers, or the adaptability of modern innovations, the landscape of electric guitar pickups remains dynamic, providing limitless prospects for musicians to shape their perfect sound.

Electric guitar pickups are an essential part of any electric guitar, providing the sound that sets it apart from the rest. Pickups are transducers that convert the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. The most common type of pickup is the magnetic pickup, which uses a coil of wire to generate an electromagnetic field. Pickup covers are used to protect pickups from dust, dirt, and other debris, as well as reduce noise and feedback.
1

FLEOR High Output Alnico 5 Double Coil Humbucker Guitar Pickup Set for Neck and Bridge - White

97
71 reviews
Pros
  • Features 6 non-adjustable slug pole pieces and 6 adjustable screws pole pieces that meets varied requirements
  • Compatible with electric guitar that can be installed humbucker pickup
  • Comes with fully wax potted and sealed that helps eliminate any unwanted feedback and noise
Cons
  • The lead wires may not be shielded
2

Guyker Flat Metal Humbucker Pickup Mounting Rings - Set of 2 for Electric Guitar

93
71 reviews
If you're looking for the highest quality electric guitar pickups and pickup covers, the Guyker Store is the place to go. Our Flat Metal Humbucker Pickup Mounting Ring Set is the perfect replacement part for your bridge neck pickups cover frame. Our picks are designed to provide maximum build quality, durability, overall satisfaction, and value for money. Get yours today and start playing like a pro! (2PCS, Black)
3

MAKA Electric Guitar Bridge Screw Kit Assortment Box - Perfect for Guitarists!

90
96 reviews
Pros
  • Comes with 9 types of screws that meets varied electric guitar needs
  • Features plastic slotted organizer box that helps to store the springs and screws easily
  • Made of high-quality material that offers an extended durability
Cons
  • May not offer adequate torque
4

Guyker Metal Humbucker Pickup Mounting Ring Set with Curved Bottom Design

87
77 reviews
Looking for the perfect replacement pickup covers for your Les Paul LP Style Electric Guitar or Precision Bass? Look no further than the Guyker Curved Bottom Metal Humbucker Pickup Mounting Ring Set! This set includes two black pickup covers, perfect for both bridge and neck pickups. Crafted with the highest build quality and durability, these pickups are sure to provide great overall satisfaction and value for money. Visit the Guyker Store to find the best electric guitar pickups and pickup covers today!
5

Musiclily Hot Rails Strat Pickup - Single Coil Humbucker for Electric Guitars

85
60 reviews
Pros
  • The pickup is equipped with four wires so it can be easilysplittable
  • The twin bar has two poles that is fully shielded for low noise
  • Ceramic magnet offers a quiet pickup with 10Kohm resistance high output
Cons
  • May not be suitable for all guitars
6

Fender Electric Guitar Pickup Mounting Tubing

84
28 reviews
Pros
  • Ideal for mounting new pickups just right and for replacing pickup springs or older tubing
  • Comes with 12 pieces of rubber tubing that makes it convenient to use
  • Suitable with most fender instruments with pickguard-mounting pickups
Cons
  • May not withstand humid temperature
7

Fender Tex-Mex Strat Electric Guitar Pickups

83
9 reviews
Fender Tex-Mex Strat Pickups Experience the ultimate in electric guitar sound with Fender Tex-Mex Strat Pickups. Crafted to provide superior build quality, durability and overall satisfaction, these pickups offer amazing value for money. Stop by the Fender Store today and get your hands on the best electric guitar pickups and pickup covers.
8

2-Pack of Piezo Contact Microphones to Pick Up Sounds from Guitars, Violins, Banjos, Mandolins, and Ukuleles - by TraderPlus

80
67 reviews
Pros
  • Comes with double-sided tape and self-adhesive Velcro for multiple mounting options
  • The contact microphones pick up the sound by being in direct contact with the sound source
  • Features simple design that allows to easily plug it into the amp, bass amp or other recording equipment
Cons
  • The sound may not be loud enough
9

AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Guitar Pickup

79
49 reviews
Pros
  • Single-coil pickup minimize hum to keep the pickup away from fluorescence lights, dimmer packs and more
  • Requires no drilling that allows for quick installation and storage
  • Solid beech wood housing offers better transmission of acoustic vibrations, string balance and acoustic clarity
Cons
  • The volume may not be loud enough
10

Fender Vintage Strat Pickup Cover Set - Add a Classic Look to Your Guitar with Black Covers

77
24 reviews
Amazon
$2 OFF
Pros
  • The strat pickup cover set is a genuine Fender replacement part
  • Comes with a custom design that makes it suitable for different styles and sizes of guitars
  • Made of high-quality material that offers an extended durability
Cons
  • The holes may not line up adequately

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