The Stratocaster, with its sleek design and distinctive tone, has been a mainstay in the guitar world for decades. But one of the keys to unlocking the Strat’s full potential lies in its pickups. Whether you’re searching for that classic vintage sound or looking to emulate your favorite guitar hero, choosing the right pickups is essential. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover:
- The Most Popular Pickups for Strats: Explore the standard single-coils that many guitarists swear by, along with modern innovations.
- The Best Vintage-Sounding Strat Pickups: Uncover options that faithfully replicate the tones of yesteryears, bringing the warmth and richness of classic rock to life.
- Artist-Inspired Choices: Learn about specific pickups used by legendary players like David Gilmour, and how you can achieve similar tones.
So, what are the best strat pickups for your unique sound and playing style? Let’s dive in to find out:
- 1. Fender Custom Shop ’69 Strat Pickups
- 2. Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered Strat Pickup
- 3. DiMarzio Area 58/61/67 Set
- 4. Bare Knuckle Pickups ‘Mother’s Milk’
- 5. Fishman Fluence Strat Pickups
- 6. EMG SA Active Strat Guitar Pickup
As a musician, you are continually seeking that unique sound and tone that defines you. Strat pickups can be the key to unlocking that sound, as they’re essential in shaping the character of your guitar. In this review, we delve into the seven best Strat pickups of 2023, exploring their technical features, performance, and suitability for various genres and playing styles.
1. Fender Custom Shop ‘69 Strat Pickups
The Fender Custom Shop '69 Strat Pickups embody the classic, vintage sound that many guitarists crave. These pickups offer a blend of warmth, clarity, and aggression, with distinct characteristics for each pickup position. The combination of Alnico magnets provides a versatile sound palette, suitable for a wide array of musical styles.
- Authentic Vintage Sound: Faithfully replicates the tone of the late '60s.
- Magnet Variety: Utilizes different Alnico magnets for a rich tonal spectrum.
- Quality Construction: Built with the precision and quality expected from Fender.
Why someone should buy:
This set captures the authentic tone of the late ’60s and is perfect for those looking to recreate the vintage Stratocaster experience. Additionally, the different magnet types allow for a highly nuanced sound.
Technical Features:
- Neck pickup: Alnico 5 magnet, 6.9k ohm output, Warm, smooth, and articulate.
- Middle pickup: Alnico 3 magnet, 5.7k ohm output, Bright, clear, and balanced.
- Bridge pickup: Alnico 2 magnet, 6.3k ohm output, Punchy, aggressive, and cutting.
Review:
The Fender Custom Shop ’69 provides a nostalgic experience with a balanced output across all three pickups. The construction is top-notch, delivering a clear and vibrant tone suitable for various genres.
Verdict:
A fantastic option for vintage sound enthusiasts and professionals seeking that classic Stratocaster essence.
This Strat Pickup is Perfect For:
- Classic Rock Enthusiasts
- Vintage Tone Chasers
- Blues and Jazz Musicians
2. Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered Strat Pickup
The Seymour Duncan SSL-5 is renowned for its robust and versatile tone, making it suitable for musicians who play a wide array of genres. This hand-wound pickup offers everything from warm, articulate sounds to punchy, aggressive tones.
- Hand-wound Quality: Crafted with precision in the USA.
- Versatility: Capable of both vintage and more aggressive tones.
- Customization Options: 4-conductor wiring for split coil and series/parallel options.
Why someone should buy:
If you’re after a custom-staggered pickup that can handle everything from blues to rock, this is the one for you. Its unique construction ensures that it can provide a 25% hotter output than vintage Strat pickups, delivering a more powerful sound.
Technical Features:
- Neck pickup: Alnico 2 magnet, 6.9k ohm output, Warm, smooth, and articulate.
- Middle pickup: Alnico 3 magnet, 5.7k ohm output, Bright, clear, and balanced.
- Bridge pickup: Alnico 5 magnet, 7.9k ohm output, Punchy, aggressive, and cutting.
- Nickel-plated steel cover, 4-conductor wiring, 25% hotter output than vintage Strat pickups.
Review:
The Seymour Duncan SSL-5 excels in flexibility, making it ideal for musicians who dabble in various genres. The hotter output and the custom-staggered design provide a unique blend of old-school charm with modern power.
Verdict:
Highly recommended for players seeking both classic and modern sounds in one package.
This Strat Pickup is Perfect For:
- Multi-genre Guitarists
- Studio Musicians
- Tone Experimenters
I will continue the review of the remaining Strat pickups in a follow-up post. The depth and quality of these products require careful consideration to provide a thorough analysis. Stay tuned!
3. DiMarzio Area 58/61/67 Set
The DiMarzio Area 58/61/67 Set offers the warmth and richness of vintage Strat pickups without the noise. These pickups provide a punchy and clear sound, perfect for both rhythm playing and lead guitar solos, making them a popular choice among professionals.
- Noise-Canceling Technology: Offers a hum-free experience.
- Versatile Sound Profile: Appeals to both vintage and modern tastes.
- Quality Construction: Hand-wound in the USA, built to last.
Why someone should buy:
If you desire a noise-free experience without compromising on the vintage vibe, this set is an ideal choice. The balanced output and hotter tone make it suitable for modern music styles as well.
Technical Features:
- Neck, Middle, Bridge pickup: Alnico 5 magnet, various ohm outputs, Wide tonal range.
- Hand-wound in the USA, Nickel-plated steel cover, 4-conductor wiring, 25% hotter output.
Review:
The DiMarzio Area Set impresses with its ability to cancel noise without sacrificing the tone. The construction ensures that the character of each pickup position is well defined, offering a versatile sound palette.
Verdict:
A perfect blend of vintage tone and modern noiseless technology, a must-have for serious guitarists.
This Strat Pickup is Perfect For:
- Studio Recording
- Live Performances
- Vintage Tone Enthusiasts
4. Bare Knuckle Pickups ‘Mother’s Milk’
Inspired by John Frusciante's sound on the 'Mother's Milk' album, the Bare Knuckle Pickups 'Mother's Milk' offers an energetic, punchy, and articulate tone. Hand-wound in the UK, this set has become a favorite among artists seeking creativity and expressive sound.
- Iconic Sound Signature: Inspired by John Frusciante's tone.
- Premium Construction: Hand-wound in the UK for top-notch quality.
- Artistic Appeal: A favorite among innovative musicians.
Why someone should buy:
If you’re inspired by the signature sound of iconic albums and artists, this pickup set will resonate with you. It offers a unique character that can be the cornerstone of your artistic voice.
Technical Features:
- Neck pickup: Alnico 2 magnet, 5.8k ohm output, Warm, smooth, and articulate.
- Middle pickup: Alnico 5 magnet, 6.2k ohm output, Bright, clear, and balanced.
- Bridge pickup: Alnico 8 magnet, 7.6k ohm output, Punchy, aggressive, and cutting.
- Hand-wound in the UK, Nickel-plated steel cover, Inspired by ‘Mother’s Milk.’
Review:
The Bare Knuckle ‘Mother’s Milk’ offers a distinct sound that stands out. It’s both inspiring and inviting for those looking to craft unique music, mirroring the tone that made the ‘Mother’s Milk’ album iconic.
Verdict:
For musicians seeking to tap into a sound that has shaped a generation, this is an unmissable option.
This Strat Pickup is Perfect For:
- Innovative Musicians
- Red Hot Chili Peppers Fans
- Players Seeking Unique Tone
5. Fishman Fluence Strat Pickups
Fishman's Fluence Strat Pickups take versatility to another level, offering two distinct voices per pickup. From a modern classic warmth to a high-gain punchiness, these pickups offer a wide range of tones, making them suitable for various musical styles.
- Two Voices Per Pickup: Unprecedented tonal range.
- Patented Technology: Utilizes Fluence tech for enhanced responsiveness.
- Genre Fluidity: Suits almost any musical style.
Why someone should buy:
If you’re a versatile musician seeking to explore a broad spectrum of tones, these pickups are designed for you. The patented Fluence technology offers responsive and dynamic sounds.
Technical Features:
- Neck, Middle, Bridge pickup: Various voices and tonal options.
- Patented Fluence technology, Versatile and responsive, Perfect for various genres.
Review:
Fishman Fluence Strat Pickups redefine what’s possible with pickup technology. The ability to switch between voices provides endless tonal possibilities, making it a favorite among experimental musicians.
Verdict:
A groundbreaking pickup set that pushes the boundaries of what’s achievable with electric guitar tone.
This Strat Pickup is Perfect For:
- Experimental Musicians
- Sound Designers
- Players Seeking Tonal Diversity
6. EMG SA Active Strat Guitar Pickup
The EMG SA Active Strat Guitar Pickup is a favorite among rock and metal players. Its active design offers a powerful, clear, and focused tone, perfect for aggressive playing styles.
- Powerful Output: Active design for a strong, clear sound.
- Noise-Free Performance: Great for live and studio use.
- Metal Ready: Perfect for rock and metal genres.
Why someone should buy:
If you’re into genres that require a strong and precise tone, this is the pickup for you. The active design ensures a noise-free performance, and its construction guarantees durability.
Technical Features:
- Alnico 5 magnet, 3.5k ohm output, High output, focused and aggressive tone.
- Active design, Noise-free, Perfect for metal and rock.
Review:
The EMG SA Active Pickup offers a sound that cuts through the mix, making it ideal for aggressive playing. Its active design ensures a high-energy performance without the noise.
Verdict:
A must-have for rock and metal players seeking precision, clarity, and power in their tone.
This Strat Pickup is Perfect For:
- Rock and Metal Musicians
- High-Gain Tone Enthusiasts
- Live Performers
Strat Pickups Buyer’s Guide
When searching for the right strat pickups to achieve that classic tone, there are several key factors to consider. This guide will help you navigate the options to find the perfect fit for your sound.
Understanding the Basics
- Leo Fender Stratocaster Legacy: The Stratocaster, a brainchild of Leo Fender, revolutionized the guitar world. Its unique design often includes two single coil pickups, contributing to its distinctive sound.
- Alnico V Magnets: Many strat pickups utilize Alnico V magnets. These are known for their balanced tone, offering a blend of warmth and brightness, ideal for that classic Strat sound.
- Single Coil vs. Humbuckers: Stratocasters typically feature single coils, known for their clear, sharp sound. However, some players prefer a classic PAF (Patent Applied For) style tone, reminiscent of vintage humbuckers, for a thicker, warmer sound.
Top Pickups for Your Strat
- Lindy Fralin Pickups: Renowned for their high-quality sound, these pickups are a go-to for musicians seeking an authentic vintage tone. They offer a balanced tone with a slight emphasis on the high end.
- DiMarzio Pickups: DiMarzio offers a range of strat pickups, including options that replicate the vintage pickups sound. They are known for their versatility and can add a modern twist to the classic strat tone.
- Vintage Style Pickups: For purists, vintage strat pickups provide an undiluted, classic sound. These are perfect for players looking to recreate the tones from the golden era of Fender guitars.
Choosing the Right Strat Pickup Sets
- Position Matters: The tone varies significantly between the bridge, middle, and neck position pickups. The middle and neck position single coils typically offer a warmer, mellower sound, while the bridge pickup is brighter and more aggressive.
- Strat Tone Goals: Define your desired strat tone. Are you looking for that bright, cutting edge typical of Fender guitars, or do you lean towards a mellower, classic PAF style tone?
- Compatibility with Your Guitar: Ensure the pickups you choose are compatible with your Stratocaster model. Some pickups might require modifications to your guitar.
Selecting the right strat pickups is crucial for achieving your desired sound. Whether you’re after a classic strat tone with vintage single coil pickup sets or a more modern sound, consider these key points in your decision. Remember, the best pickups are the ones that resonate with your personal style and enhance your guitar’s natural sound.
Factors to Consider:
- Classic Strat Tone vs. Modern Sound: Are you looking for a vintage Strat tone, or something more modern like active pickups or humbucker pickups?
- Noiseless Technology: Noiseless pickups are essential for those who need clean sound without any hum or buzz.
- Single Coil vs. Humbucker Pickup: Single coil pickups offer a bright and clear tone, while humbucker pickups provide a fuller and more aggressive tone.
- Configuration: Most Strats come with three single coil pickups configuration. You may consider a humbucker pickup for the bridge if you want a thicker sound.
- Reverse Wound Middle Pickup: Consider a set with a reverse wound middle pickup to cancel out the hum when using the bridge and middle pickup or the middle and neck pickup together.
- Replacement Stratocaster Pickups vs. Stock Pickups: Replacement pickups can drastically change the guitar’s sound, so test guitar pickups before making a final decision.
- Brand Considerations: Popular brands like Seymour Duncan, Fender pickups, and others offer a wide range of options.
- Fender Custom Shop Pickups: For those seeking high-end replacements, consider options from the Fender Custom Shop like the Texas Special Set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most used pickup on a Strat?
A: The most used pickup on a Stratocaster, particularly in the classic models, is typically a single-coil pickup. Fender’s standard single-coil pickups have become synonymous with the Strat’s bright and clear tone, providing that signature sound that many guitarists love. When searching for the best strat pickups, many players prefer models that pay homage to this traditional sound, while others may explore humbuckers or other pickup variations to suit their specific needs.
Q: What is the best vintage-sounding Strat pickups?
A: The best vintage-sounding Strat pickups often emulate the warm and rich tones of the classic ’50s and ’60s Strats. Options like the Fender Custom Shop ’54 Strat Pickups or Seymour Duncan SSL-1 Vintage Staggered Strat Pickups are popular choices among enthusiasts. These pickups capture the authentic vintage Strat sound, providing the characteristic chime and twang that made the original Stratocasters so iconic.
Q: What pickups are in a David Gilmour Strat?
A: David Gilmour, the legendary Pink Floyd guitarist, has been known to use a customized Stratocaster with specific pickups to achieve his distinctive sound. His main black Strat features a combination of pickups, including a custom-wound Seymour Duncan SSL-5 in the bridge, a Fender Custom Shop Fat ’50s in the middle, and a custom-wound neck pickup. These pickups contribute to his signature tone, and similar options can be considered when searching for the best strat pickups for a Gilmour-inspired sound.
Q: What are passive pickups and how do they differ from other pickups in producing the classic strat sound?
A: Passive pickups, unlike their active counterparts, don’t require an external power source. They are a hallmark in guitars, particularly famous for contributing to the signature strat tone. These pickups are often single coil pickup sets, which are integral in achieving the classic strat sound.
The design of passive pickups allows them to capture the vibrations of guitar strings and convert them into an electrical signal, without additional electronic processing. This results in a warm, rich tone that’s less influenced by internal preamps, maintaining the guitar’s natural sound. The single coil setup in a strat-style guitar, using passive pickups, is renowned for its bright, clear, and resonant quality, making it a staple in many musicians’ arsenals.
Conclusion
Finding the best Stratocaster pickups depends on what you’re looking for in your sound. Whether it’s the classic Stratocaster tone, vintage tone, or a more aggressive tone, there are options for every player. From Fender Strat pickups to Seymour Duncan pickup sets, this guide has you covered. Remember to consider your needs, such as noiseless pickups or specific configurations like overwound bridge pickups. Happy picking and enjoy that timeless Strat sound!