The answer to this question is not always clear-cut. Some pickups are designed to be tilted, while others are not. It also depends on the type of guitar and the player’s personal preference.
Pickups that are supposed to be tilted
Some pickups are designed to be tilted in order to improve their sound. For example, slanted neck pickups are often used on electric guitars with humbucking pickups. They are said to produce a brighter sound than parallel neck pickups, and they can also help to improve the intonation of the guitar.
Pickups that are not supposed to be tilted
Other pickups are not supposed to be tilted. For example, single-coil pickups are typically mounted parallel to the strings. Tilting these pickups can change their sound in ways that are not desirable.
The player’s personal preference
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to tilt a pickup is a matter of personal preference. Some players prefer the sound of a tilted pickup, while others prefer the sound of a parallel pickup. The best way to find out what you like is to experiment.
How to tilt a pickup
If you decide to tilt your pickup, it is important to do it carefully. You can use a screwdriver to adjust the screws that hold the pickup in place. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this can damage the pickup.
The amount of tilt
The amount of tilt that you use will depend on the pickup and the guitar. A good starting point is to tilt the pickup slightly. You can then adjust the tilt until you find the sound that you like.
Whether or not pickups are supposed to be tilted is a matter of debate. There is no right or wrong answer, and it depends on the specific pickup and guitar. The best way to find out what works for you is to experiment.
