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Twang It Right - 15 Best Telecaster Pickups for Authentic Tone and Feel |
Get ready to discover the best Telecaster Pickups on the market! In this article, we've gathered a collection of top-notch pickups that will elevate your Telecaster's sound and performance. From vintage tones to modern twists, we've got you covered with our detailed reviews and buying guide. Dive in and find your perfect match.
As an Amazon Affiliate™, we receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you!
Imagine being a musician who's always on the search for that perfect, authentic "Nashville" sound for their Telecaster-style guitar. Well, Wilkinson's WOVT Low Gauss Vintage Nashville Ceramic Bridge Telecaster Pickup might just be the answer. It fits perfectly into the bridge position of your Tele style electric guitar, like a Fender Telecaster, and offers a high-quality, low-gauss sound that'll make your guitar sing.
The ceramic magnet and 7.6K resistance make this pickup a true gem, providing a warm, powerful sound that's hard to find in other pickups. Plus, the black wire acting as the ground and the white wire as the hot wire make it easy to connect and start playing right away. The package comes with one piece of pickup, but do note that their screws might not fit your usage - you'll need to provide your own if necessary. Overall, the Wilkinson WOVT Low Gauss Vintage Nashville Ceramic Bridge Telecaster Pickup is a must-have for any Telecaster-style guitar lover looking to add that authentic Nashville touch.
The Wilkinson Low Gauss Nashville Sound Ceramic Guitar Single Coil pickups set is perfect for giving your classical Tele style guitar an authentic "Nashville" sound. I've been using them in a vintage Fender Telecaster, and the ceramic magnet pickups, with a D. C. resistance of 7.4K neck and 7.6K bridge, have really brought out the best in my guitar. It's a great budget-friendly alternative to other high-quality pickups out there. The black and white wired connection makes it easy to install, but be prepared to use your own screws, as the ones provided in the package may not fit your guitar model.
As a set, these pickups are a standout in Tele-style guitars, offering excellent versatility, clarity, and presence in the high-end register. With a little patience, they could even serve as an upgrade for a higher-end guitar. One minor drawback would be that the packaging is a bit flimsy, with the box opening from the side - but it shouldn't affect the performance of the pickups. Overall, these Wilkinson Low Gauss Nashville Sound Ceramic Guitar Single Coil pickups are a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, value-for-money solution.
FLEOR's Alnico 5 guitar pickups are perfect for a Telecaster-style electric guitar. These single coil pickups come with a wax-potted construction for durability and superior tonal clarity. The magnet inside is made with Alnico 5, which provides that classic vintage sound that guitar enthusiasts love. The bridge pickup features flat, fixed pole pieces that are slightly higher than the bobbin, while the neck pickup has a 50mm pole spacing.
One highlight of these FLEOR pickups is their compatibility with a wide range of instruments. With a resistance range of 6-7K for the neck and bridge pickups, they offer the perfect blend of articulation and warmth. The ABS plastic bobbin is both lightweight and long-lasting, ensuring years of reliable performance. The neck pickup is beautifully housed in a golden-colored plated metal cover, while the bridge pickup base sports a vibrant red copper finish. The cable provided features two conducts, making installation easy and seamless.
FLEOR's Alnico 5 pickups come with all the necessary hardware for installation, including five screws and five springs. This package is an excellent choice for Telecaster fans looking to upgrade their pickups without breaking the bank.
This Fender American Vintage '62 Telecaster Custom Neck Pickup is a sought-after addition to any guitar collection. Known for its vintage mounting screws and rubber spacers, it's a true testament to Fender's legacy of innovation.
The set is even rarer, as it includes both the unique bridge, A3, that gives a warm tone and the distinctively popular neck pickup. However, it is worth mentioning that this item is hard to come by, adding to its scarcity. Overall, this Fender Custom '62 set is an excellent choice for those seeking the iconic sound of classic Telecaster pickups.
The Mojotone Broadcaster Quiet Coil Tele Pickup Set offers a vintage formulated Alnico magnet core that is lower in Gauss levels, similar to an aged vintage Tele pickup. This design provides a balanced sound from the neck to bridge positions, as well as the traditional hum-cancelling capabilities in all positions.
One unique feature of these pickups is that they don't require any routing modifications for shallow vintage routs. Additionally, there are no PC boards, batteries, or stacked coils like in other hum-canceling designs. The sets also boast a low part count, with less than 10 parts per Quiet Coil.
The pickups are available in prewired form, making them easy to install. Vintage cloth-covered leads also provide an authentic look and make soldering easier. Overall, the Mojotone Broadcaster Quiet Coil Tele Pickup Set is a great choice for those looking for a vintage Tele pickup sound without the hum.
Are you searching for a neck pickup with a unique sound for your Tele-style electric guitar? Look no further, as this Wilkinson Low Gauss Nashville Sound Ceramic Single Coil pickup delivers a warm and authentic Nashville tone.
The potted construction ensures a long-lasting performance, while the ceramic magnet offers a crisp, clear sound. Though the included screws may not fit your usage, they are available separately. This pickup brings a classic sound and style to your guitar, making it a perfect addition for musicians looking to stand out from the crowd.
The Porter 9T neck offers a remarkable balance of clarity and fullness, perfect for those seeking a great Telecaster tone. Its raw nickel construction ensures rich tones without getting too muddled or twangy. The Porter 9T bridge pickup takes this great tone a step further, giving you a powerful P90 sound without any extra modifications required.
This bridge pickup is known for its aggression, driving your amp while retaining the ability to adjust each pole under every string. It is responsive to volume changes and cleans up smoothly as you adjust the knob. Additionally, the Porter 9T set is an excellent choice for taming bright or harsh guitars.
If you're unsure which set best suits your tonal needs, fill out our Pickup Chooser to receive a personalized recommendation based on your preferences.
I recently tried the OriPure Alnico 5 Hot Rails Telecaster Pickup Bridge and found it to be a well-rounded pickup that delivers a warm, clear sound. With its Alnico 5 magnet and two steel blades, it offers a great versatility in its tone. The pickup is sealed for less noise and comes with a passive design that allows for easy switching between single and four-conductor cable.
While it might not fit perfectly on the first try, a simple sanding adjustment should do the trick. Overall, I'm quite satisfied with its performance and build quality, making it a great choice for any Telecaster guitar.
Introducing the Fender Vintage Noiseless Telecaster Pickups, a perfect blend of classic and modern. These pickups offer the crisp and defined sound of a '60s Tele with the added benefit of hum-free performance.
With a stylish nickel cover on the neck and a sleek black cover on the bridge, these pickups are designed for universal use and are ideal for a range of genres including blues, rock, country, and pop. The package comes complete with pickups, pickup covers, and even extra picks for your convenience.
Say goodbye to hum and hello to pure sound with the Fender Vintage Noiseless Telecaster Pickups.
I recently had the chance to try out these Artec Alnico V Big Pole Pieces Open Top Neck Pickups for my Telecaster Electric Guitar, and I must say, it's been quite the ride. The alnico V rods really do their job, capturing that classic Telecaster sound with that crisp, bright twang that's so characteristic of these guitars.
I particularly appreciated the vintage cloth cables with their distinctive white and black wiring. They added a nice touch of authenticity to the pickups, making them feel like they were pulled straight from a guitar's past. The magnetic field created by the Alnico V chrome metal cover was also quite strong, providing a powerful punch to my guitar's sound.
However, there were a couple of things I noticed that I thought were worth mentioning. For one, the pole spacing was a bit wider than I'm used to, which took some getting used to. But overall, it didn't affect the performance of the pickups all that much.
One other thing was the resistance, which came in at 5.1k ohms. While this was perfectly normal for an open-top pickup like this, I found that it resulted in a slightly brighter sound than I was expecting. But again, it wasn't a deal-breaker for me – just something to be aware of if you're looking for a slightly warmer tone.
As for the mounting screws and height adjustment springs, they were a nice touch and made installation a breeze. All in all, I'm really happy with these pickups and would definitely recommend them to any Telecaster player looking to add some serious power and punch to their sound.
I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Fender Pure Vintage '51 Telecaster Pickup Set. Wow, these pickups truly captured that classic Telecaster twang and crunch!
The Alnico 3 magnets added a nice warm and focused tone, while the flush-mount polepieces provided even string response. My favorite part? The fiber bobbin construction, ensuring durability for years to come.
However, installation can be a bit tricky, as I needed to consult the included hardware for guidance. Overall, these pickups are a must-have for any Telecaster player seeking an authentic vintage sound.
Upgrade your Telecaster with the TV Jones Starwood Tele Pickup, a game-changer for your classic vibe. The Bridge pickup brings a thicker, more aggressive tone, perfectly balancing with the neck pickup.
The Neck pickup, on the other hand, delivers an explosive, room-filling sound that's ideal for both country and hard rock. The pickups feature slightly larger magnets, giving them a 3-dimensional sound and harmonics that set your guitar apart.
Ditch the stock pickups for a direct drop-in replacement that promises quality and versatility to suit all music genres.
Experience the legendary sound of Danny Gatton with the JBE Danny Gatton T-Style Tele Pickup Set. These meticulously crafted pickups bring the authentic Tele twang and snap of the vintage era, yet with the modern touch you need. The T-Style pickups fit seamlessly into your Tele body, and with adjustable output, you can fine-tune your sound just the way you like it.
Say goodbye to those tinny tones and enjoy full bass, mid, and treble response. The T-Neck ensures balanced output between bridge and neck pickups, and the staggered-blade design guarantees responsiveness on all strings. With easy installation and the high-quality manufacturing standards of the brand, you can't go wrong with this pickup set.
I recently had the chance to try out the Artec Telecaster Neck Pickup, and I must say, it was quite the experience. Right off the bat, I was impressed with the bright and classic Telecaster sound it produced. The ceramic magnets really kept that beloved Tele twang tone in check.
Installation was a breeze, with the included mounting screws and height adjustment springs making the process smooth. One particularly nice feature was the pole spacing, which was a perfect 50mm. All in all, this pickup really shined on the electric guitar, and I could tell it was a high-quality choice for anyone looking to add that classic Telecaster sound to their axe. Of course, like any product, there were a few areas where it could use some improvements—but overall, I was really happy with my experience using the Artec Telecaster Neck Pickup.
Experience the unique sound of a classic tele with the TL-Classic neck pickup. Crafted with Alnico 5 rod magnets and vulcanized fiberboard flatwork, this authentic Tele neck pickup offers a genuine vintage experience.
It even features a long skirted cover for an extra touch of authenticity. The TL-Classic is not just a relic of the past; it's built for modern guitars, with wax potting for sonic stability and cloth pushback wire for an easy, clean install.
Included are mounting screws and springs, so you can get right to playing without any hassle. Gotoh's guitar pickups have become a go-to for guitar manufacturers worldwide, thanks to their Japanese craftsmanship and dedication to superior sound quality. So whether you're playing MIJ vintage models, modern classics, or your own custom build, the TLC-Classic neck pickup is a perfect choice.
Choosing the right Telecaster pickups can significantly enhance the tone and feel of your guitar. In this buyer's guide, we'll explore essential features, considerations, and advice to help you make an informed decision.
Telecaster pickups typically come in two varieties: bridge (also known as neck) and neck (rhythm) positions. Both pickups can greatly impact the sound and playability of your instrument. Some crucial features to consider include the following:
- magnetic strength, which affects the pickup's sensitivity and output;
- resistance, which influences treble response;
- number of wires in the pickup coil, which can alter the pickup's frequency response; and 4) pole piece configuration, which impacts string-to-string balance and output.
When selecting Telecaster pickups, it is essential to think about your personal playing style and desired tone. For instance, if you prefer a bright, twangy sound, you might lean towards single-coil pickups. On the other hand, if you enjoy a warmer, fatter tone, humbucker pickups may be more suitable. Additionally, consider your preferred genre, as different styles often require specific pickup characteristics. It is also essential to evaluate the quality and durability of the pickups, ensuring they can withstand regular use and maintain their performance over time. Finally, compatibility with your Telecaster's wiring and electronics should be considered to guarantee proper operation.
When trying out different Telecaster pickups, remember that the sound can be significantly affected by factors such as guitar setup, string gauge, and pick attack. Therefore, it is crucial to experiment with various combinations to find your ideal match. It is also helpful to read reviews, consider recommendations from trusted sources, and consult with experienced musicians or luthiers for their insights and advice.
Selecting the right Telecaster pickups requires careful consideration of your playing style, desired tone, and the features that best suit your needs. By understanding key features and considerations, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your guitar's sound and playability. Always ensure compatibility with your Telecaster's electronics and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.
Telecaster pickups are a specific type of guitar pickup that is designed to provide a bright, clear tone with a powerful midrange. They are often used in Telecaster guitars, but can also be found in other styles of guitar. Telecaster pickups are typically humbuckers or single-coil pickups, and are known for their versatility and ability to deliver a wide range of sounds.
Telecaster pickups can be found in various configurations, including bridge, neck, and middle pickups. Each position provides a different tone and character, allowing players to achieve a wide range of sounds with just one guitar. Telecaster pickups are loved by musicians for their brightness and clarity, making them perfect for players who want to cut through the mix with a clear and punchy tone.
Telecaster pickups offer several benefits to guitar players. The bright, clear tone they produce makes them ideal for cutting through a mix, making it easy for your guitar to be heard. The powerful midrange of Telecaster pickups gives them a distinctive character that can't be replicated by other types of pickups. Additionally, their versatility allows players to achieve a wide range of sounds with just one guitar, making them a popular choice among musicians.
Another benefit of Telecaster pickups is their durability. Because they are made from high-quality materials, Telecaster pickups can withstand the rigors of gigging and touring. This makes them a reliable choice for musicians who need a guitar pickup that can handle the demands of regular use without breaking down or losing its performance.
Yes, Telecaster pickups can be used on other types of guitars, although they most commonly appear on Telecaster models. Telecaster pickups are available in a variety of configurations, including bridge, neck, and middle pickups, making them versatile enough to be used in a wide range of guitar setups.
Some guitarists even choose to add Telecaster pickups as a secondary pickup on their Stratocaster or other style of guitar. This can give the guitar a brighter, clearer sound that is reminiscent of the Telecaster, making it a popular choice among musicians who want to add a touch of Telecaster tone to their playing.
There are several types of Telecaster pickups available, including humbuckers and single-coil pickups. Humbucker Telecaster pickups provide a fat, powerful tone with plenty of low-end punch, making them popular among players who want a heavy, aggressive sound. Single-coil Telecaster pickups, on the other hand, offer a brighter, more versatile sound that is perfect for players who want a clear, punchy tone with plenty of articulation.
Other features that can be found on Telecaster pickups include different magnets, pole piece configurations, and cover types. These options allow players to customize the sound of their Telecaster pickups, giving them the ability to achieve a wide range of tones with just one set of pickups. Ultimately, the type of Telecaster pickup that is right for you will depend on your playing style and the sound you are looking to achieve.
Yes, installing Telecaster pickups is generally a straightforward process that can be completed by most players. The pickups themselves simply screw into the pickguard or pickup cavity in the guitar, making it easy to change them out or try out different configurations. Additionally, many guitar players choose to install their own Telecaster pickups as a way to customize their guitar to their own specific needs and preferences.
If you have never installed a Telecaster pickup before, there are plenty of online resources and tutorials available that can guide you through the process step by step. With a little patience and attention to detail, even beginners can successfully install their own Telecaster pickups and enjoy the wide range of sounds they offer.
For beginners, it is recommended to start with a standard set of Telecaster pickups. This typically includes a bridge pickup in the front position, a neck pickup in the middle position, and a middle pickup in the bridge position. These pickups offer a great balance of tone and versatility, making them ideal for players who are just starting out.
Another good option for beginner players is a set of humbucker Telecaster pickups. These pickups provide a fat, powerful tone with plenty of low-end punch, making them great for players who want to achieve a heavy, aggressive sound from the outset. However, if you are a beginner, it is a good idea to start with a standard set of pickups first and experiment with different tones before investing in more specialized pickups.
As an Amazon Affiliate™, we receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you!