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The Best Strat Pickups
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The Best Strat Pickups

Strat Pickups

Get ready to elevate your Stratocaster's sound with our top pickups selection! In this Strat Pickups roundup, we'll be showcasing the best options on the market, catering to various genres and playing styles. From vintage tones to high-gain rock, we've got you covered. So, buckle up and indulge in the world of Strat pickups!

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Reviews

tonerider-trs2-city-limits-strat-pickup-set-1

I recently had the pleasure of using the Tonerider TRS2 City Limits Strat Pickup Set in my daily life, and I must say, it truly brings the classic Texas sound to life. The calibrated windings on the neck and middle pickups emulate the sought-after Texas sound, while the overwound bridge pickup provides a more modern soloing sound. The "Modified Vintage Stagger" polepiece magnet array ensures near-perfect string-to-string balance, making these pickups ideal for any Stratocaster.

One feature that stood out to me during my experience was the easy installation. The sliding winding design allowed me to quickly install the pickups without any hassle. As for drawbacks, I noticed a slight increase in comments and extraneous noises, but overall, the pros outweighed the cons.

In conclusion, the Tonerider TRS2 City Limits Strat Pickup Set is a great choice for guitarists seeking a hotter, more versatile Strat sound. The combination of craftsmanship and unique sound quality make these pickups a standout option in the market.

wilkinson-m-series-high-output-alnico-5-strat-single-coil-pickups-set-for-stratocaster-electric-guit-1

The Wilkinson M Series High Output Alnico 5 Strat Single Coil Pickups Set is a popular choice for Stratocaster Electric Guitar enthusiasts. Designed for use in neck/middle/bridge positions, these pickups feature a distinct buzz cancellation function and are wax potted for durability.

Crafted with genuine Wilkinson parts manufactured in China, these pickups have become a go-to for music lovers who appreciate the perfect balance between increased output and vintage character. Perfect for rock players and overdriving amps, these pickups are ideal when used as a full set to achieve a rich, full single-coil sound.

Each pickup features an Alnico 5 magnet and a DC resistance of 6.4K (+/- 0.5K). The white wire in the neck and bridge is hot, while the yellow or red wire in the middle is hot. Moreover, the black wire is grounded.

The set comes with three pieces of pickups, with the package including 3 pieces pickups. Although the provided screws may not fit every use, they can be easily replaced with suitable alternatives. Overall, this Stratocaster pickup set has received rave reviews, with users praising its ability to strike the perfect balance between vintage warmth and modern power.

fender-pure-vintage-65-strat-pickup-set-vintage-white-1

The Fender Pure Vintage '65 Strat Pickup Set in Vintage White provides an authentic mid-60s Strat sound, perfect for classic surf rock tones. The pickups are crafted with Alnico 5 magnets, delivering warm and meaty tones.

The staggered pole pieces balance the volume and output across each string, while the enamel-coated magnet wire and period-correct cloth wire achieve their characteristic sound. These pickups come complete with mounting screws, rubber height adjustment tubing, and vintage-inspired covers, giving them a nostalgic touch. Overall, the sound quality is excellent, making it a great choice for those seeking a vintage-inspired Stratocaster experience.

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This roundup review article introduces the Golden Age Pickup Kit for Strat, featuring Alnico 5 magnets. The kit empowers users to build their own guitar pickups, allowing them to personalize their sound and tone. The Alnico 5 magnets produce a bright and tight tone with distinctive high notes.

The kit comes with all the necessary components, including the Black fiber bobbin flatwork, Alnico 5 staggered-height polepieces, and wire. The pickup can fit a standard Strat pickup cover and pickguard. Users praise the craftsmanship, sound quality, sturdiness, ease of use, visual appeal, and ease of installation of this product, making it a popular choice for guitar enthusiasts looking to create their unique pickups.

lindy-fralin-strat-blues-special-pickup-set-1

As a seasoned guitarist, I was always on the lookout for high-quality pickups that would give my Stratocaster a unique voice. When I stumbled upon the Lindy Fralin Strat Blues Special pickup set, I couldn't resist giving it a try. The first thing that stood out to me was its elegant design, which I attributed to its meticulous craftsmanship.

After installing the set, I was immediately struck by its power. The bridge pickup, with its baseplate for a thicker sound and staggered pole pieces, was a game-changer. The middle pickup, though equally impressive, seemed to have a slightly warmer tone that lent itself perfectly to the blues. The set was also wax potted for extra protection against microphonics, ensuring a clear and crisp sound.

However, the set's limited flexibility for customization, especially for those not familiar with the process, was a downside. Still, in my opinion, the Fralin's ability to deliver a rich, bluesy tone made it more than worth it. All in all, the Lindy Fralin Strat Blues Special was a worthy addition to my guitar setup, and it was never easy for me to part ways with such a magnificent pickup set.

pickup-kent-armstrong-icon-57-bridge-strat-alnico-3-1

Experience the authentic, vintage tone of the 1957 Strat single-coil pickups with the Icon 57 Bridge, Strat pickup. These pickups are designed to resemble their original counterparts from the year 1957, offering a unique sound not previously accessible.

The middle position reverse wound/reverse polarity provides noise cancellation when using a 5-way switch. Crafted with Alnico III magnets and 42-gauge Formvar wire, these pickups are perfect for those seeking an authentic and distinctive sound. The white covers add a touch of originality to these recreations.

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The Seymour Duncan SSL-3 Hot Strat Pickup offers a high output true single-coil sound, perfect for warmer instruments and various music styles including country, pop, blues, classic rock, and heavy rock. This pickup boasts a raised flat Alnico 5 pole piece for a stronger and deeper magnetic field, and extra coil windings for added power.

It's an excellent choice for players looking to improve a weak guitar sound. The white cover included also adds a touch of style to your instrument. Users have praised the ease of use and high-quality sound, while some have mentioned that it may be too bright for some tastes.

Overall, this pickup has received excellent reviews with a high rating.

mojotone-58-quiet-coil-strat-neck-middle-pickup-1

Ever since I decided to go for the Mojotone 58 Quiet Coil Strat pickup, my guitar experience has been nothing but exceptional. The vintage formulation of the Alnico magnet cores combined with the lower Gauss levels was enough to give it the old-school touch to my music. The vintage cloth-covered leads, with their effortless push-back for perfect soldering, made me feel like I was handling a well-cared-for vintage accessory.

However, despite its great overall feel, I couldn’t help but miss the consistent and traditional polepiece arrangements of vintage single coil pickups. The sensitivity and clarity I desired just weren't as profound as what I could get from custom-made designs at that time. But that still hasn't dampened the excitement this pickup brought to my electric guitar's sound in terms of hum cancellation.

I must admit, it's quite humbling to have all the response and dynamics of a true single coil without the usual hum interference, thanks to the Quiet Coil technology employed in Mojotone's 58. It's not a perfect fit for every style, but it's definitely a great companion for my guitar - an upgrade that my fingers couldn't find fault with.

In conclusion, the Mojotone 58 pickup successfully combines the vintage charm with the modern touch of a hum-free single coil, proving it to be a reliable investment for any guitar enthusiast seeking a balanced experience. Despite a slight gap in providing the vintage polepiece arrangement, the pickup performs exceptionally well, making it a worthy addition to my guitar's capabilities.

wilkinson-vintage-voice-alnico-v-st-strat-single-coil-pickups-set-sss-for-stratocaster-electric-guit-1

These Vintage Voice Alnico V single coil pickups are perfect for Strat-style electric guitars, with positions for the neck, middle, and bridge. The 52mm pole spacing provides excellent balance, while the reversed winding on the middle pickup offers a unique hum-cancelling feature.

Made with Alnico V magnets, these pickups deliver excellent focus and dynamics, with 6K resistance for the neck and 6.4K resistance for the bridge position. Included in the package are these three high-quality pickups, allowing you to experience great sound quality in your Stratocaster electric guitar.

fender-eric-johnson-stratocaster-pickup-set-1

These Fender Eric Johnson Stratocaster Pickup Sets are an absolute game-changer for your Strat. With their hotter output bridge pickup compared to vintage-style pickups and highly dynamic, balanced output, it's like having a completely new guitar in my hands. I was particularly drawn to the bridge pickup which is specially voiced to be hotter without losing that precious top-end sparkle. The middle pickup, based on a '63 Strat pickup, comes with specially treated alnico magnets but is reverse-wound to cancel hum when used with the neck or bridge pickup, ensuring a clear sound.

Installation wasn't a hassle at all; the included hardware made the process smooth and effortless. The pickups themselves are a sight to behold, looking neat and tidy with the original covers intact. Fender's collaboration with Eric Johnson resulted in these incredible pickups that capture his unique tone and style seamlessly.

Despite being a bit less chimey compared to EJ Strats, these pickups still produced a fantastic sound with a wide variety of styles. While they might not turn you into a master like Eric Johnson, they certainly provide a solid foundation to create your own unique sound. It's like a breath of fresh air - these pickups have genuinely restored my faith in non-noiseless pickups.

Overall, I am thoroughly impressed with these Fender Eric Johnson Stratocaster Pickup Sets. They certainly live up to their reputation and exceeded my expectations. Give these picks a try and let your creativity run wild!

dimarzio-tone-zone-s-strat-pickup-white-1

Ever since I started using the DiMarzio Tone Zone S Strat Pickup White, my playing experience has been significantly enhanced. The moment I installed it on my Strat, I was blown away by the rich, warm sound it produced.

One of the most noticeable features of this pickup is its ability to provide a strong mid-range and bass response. It's like having the powerhouse sound of a humbucker with the clarity of a single coil. This made it a perfect choice for my bridge position, providing the perfect balance for my solid body guitar.

However, what truly impressed me was the ease of use. I could switch between humbucker and single coil modes effortlessly, making it incredibly versatile for different musical styles. It wasn't just a pickup that offered a plethora of sounds, but one that was also user-friendly.

While the DiMarzio Tone Zone S Strat Pickup White was mostly praised for its remarkable sound quality, it wasn't without its drawbacks. The instructions provided were a bit confusing, and I had to experiment a bit to get the desired sound. But once I got the hang of it, it was a breeze to use.

Overall, this pickup has been a game-changer for my guitar playing. The rich sound and versatility it offers make it a standout product. Despite the minor drawbacks, the pros far outweighed the cons, making it a must-have for any serious guitarist.

mojotone-59-clone-strat-pickup-set-1

Mojotone has crafted a stunningly accurate reconstruction of the 1959 Strat pickups, capturing the essence of that remarkable era and delivering a fantastic sound. These pickups have been meticulously handwound to mimic the exact same specifications, materials, and techniques used in the original 1959 set. Each element, from the sand-cast Alnico 5 beveled magnets to the vintage-spec heavy Formvar coil wire, is painstakingly applied to create an uncanny replica. The resulting tone is a testament to Mojotone's dedication and attention to detail.

My own experience with these pickups has been nothing short of remarkable. I've used them on both vintage and new builds, and the clarity and versatility they offer are simply outstanding. While some players may prefer different degrees of brightness or output, the Mojotone 59 Clone Strat Pickup Set really brings out the best in Stratocasters. It's a truly exceptional product, and I'd highly recommend it to any guitar enthusiast looking for that elusive, 1959-perfected Strat tone. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed.

Buyer's Guide

Strat Pickups have been a staple in the world of guitar pickups for decades, known for their versatility, warmth, and clarity. This buyer's guide aims to help you understand the important features, considerations, and general advice for Strat Pickups, so you can make an informed decision when selecting the right pickups for your guitar.

Types of Strat Pickups

There are three main types of Strat Pickups: the original Stratocaster single-coil pickups, humbucker pickups, and Noiseless pickups. Original Stratocaster pickups are characterized by their single-coil design, which offers a bright and clear tone. Humbucker pickups offer a fuller, warmer tone. Noiseless pickups provide a quieter playing experience with minimal hum.

Pickup Placement and Configuration

The pickup placement and configuration can significantly impact the tone and feel of your Strat Pickups. Traditional Stratocaster pickups have a bridge, middle, and neck position. The bridge pickup is usually the brightest and most focused on the high end, while the neck pickup is warmer and more focused on the low end. Middle pickups offer a balanced tone. Experimenting with different configurations, such as switching the bridge and neck pickups, can help you find the sound you're looking for.

Wiring Options

The wiring of your Strat Pickups can also affect the overall tone and feel. Some common wiring options include the 5-way switch (standard), 5-way switch with coil-splitting (provides single-coil tones), and the Blues Brothers circuit (offers an additional switch for even more tone-shaping options). Consider your playing style and preferences when choosing the right wiring configuration for your Strat Pickups.

Quality and Durability

When investing in Strat Pickups, it's essential to consider the quality and durability of the components. Look for pickups made from high-quality materials, such as Alnico magnets and copper wire, to ensure a strong, consistent magnetic field. Additionally, consider the pickup's build quality, including the wire gauges, pole pieces, and bobbins, to ensure reliable performance over time.

FAQ

What are Strat Pickups?

Strat Pickups refer to the range of pickups specifically designed for use with Fender Stratocaster electric guitars. These pickups offer a variety of tones and styles, allowing Strat players to customize their guitar's sound to suit their preferences or the genre of music they are playing. Strat Pickups are known for their clear and balanced overtones, making them popular choices for various music styles.

The most popular Strat Pickups include the original three single-coil pickups and a variety of humbucker pickups. With various models and configurations available, players can choose a Strat Pickup that best suits their playing style and musical taste. Strat Pickups are a key component of the iconic Fender Stratocaster, and their popularity has led to the release of numerous pickup lines, catering to the diverse tastes of musicians worldwide.

What are the differences among the original three single-coil Strat Pickups?

The original three single-coil Strat Pickups are known for their balanced and bright sound. These pickups feature different characteristics, making them well-suited for different musical styles and genres. The pickups are often referred to as the bridge, middle, and neck positions to indicate their placement on the instrument.

The bridge pickup is typically the hottest of the three, offering a brighter sound with a higher output. The middle pickup is slightly warmer and mellower than the bridge pickup, while the neck pickup delivers a warm and full-bodied tone. By selecting different combinations of these pickups, players can achieve a wide range of tones and voicings, perfect for various playing styles and musical genres.

What are the benefits of using humbucker Strat Pickups?

Humbucker Strat Pickups offer several advantages for guitar players looking for a slightly different sound or a more powerful pickup. Humbuckers tend to have a higher output than single-coil pickups, resulting in a richer and warmer tone. This makes them ideal for rock, blues, and heavier genres, where a bigger sound is required.

Additionally, the increased magnetic flux of a humbucker eliminates some of the high-end "sparkle" associated with single-coil pickups. This makes the sound less susceptible to unwanted noise, such as hum and buzz, particularly in high-gain situations or when using pedals and amplifiers with a high-output tone.

What are some popular modern humbucker Strat Pickups on the market?

There are numerous modern humbucker Strat Pickups on the market, with each manufacturer offering a unique flavor of their own. Some notable examples include the Seymour Duncan JB and '59 models, the Bare Knuckle War Pig and Throbakker Noiseless, and the Fender Custom Shop Fat Strat and '50s Strat pickups.

These pickups offer a range of characteristics, such as various winds (overwound or reverse-wound) and different magnets (alnico, ceramic, or neodymium) for diverse tonal options. Players can choose from these pickups according to their taste and the type of music they play, ensuring the right Strat Pickup for their needs.

Are there any pickups designed specifically for acoustic or semi-acoustic guitars that can be used on Strats?

Technically, you could use acoustic or semi-acoustic pickups on a Stratocaster, but it might not deliver the desired result. Stratocasters are predominantly designed for use with pickups that produce a bright and articulate sound, such as single-coil and humbucker pickups specifically made for electric guitars.

Stratocasters have a unique resonance that is best complemented by pickups that cater to their design and woods. Using a pickup that is not designed for an electric guitar could compromise the Stratocaster's natural tonal qualities, resulting in an undesirable or uncharacteristic sound. Therefore, it is recommended to stick to the original Strat Pickups or single-coil and humbucker pickups designed for electric guitars to achieve the best sound from your instrument.

Are there any budget-friendly Strat Pickups worth considering?

Yes, there are several budget-friendly Strat Pickups on the market that offer great value for money. Some popular options include the DiMarzio Super Distortion and Evolution models, the Seymour Duncan Distortion and Jazz models, and the Fender Custom Shop '69 and Bullet pickups. These pickups have been designed to cater to different playing styles and musical genres at a lower price point than their high-end counterparts.

While budget-friendly Strat Pickups may not match the premium tone quality of expensive pickups, they can still deliver a satisfying sound for many players and offer an accessible entry point to trying different pickup styles and configurations. These pickups are ideal for beginners or players who want to experiment with various tones without investing in high-end components.

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn through qualified purchases at no cost to you

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