The answer to this question depends on the type of pickup and the guitar.
Humbuckers
Most humbuckers are symmetrical, meaning that they sound the same regardless of whether they are installed upside down or right side up. However, there are some humbuckers that are not symmetrical, and these may sound different if they are installed upside down.
Single-coil pickups
Single-coil pickups are not symmetrical, and they typically sound brighter when they are installed upside down. This is because the strings are closer to the magnets when the pickup is upside down, which increases the output of the pickup.
The guitar
The type of guitar can also affect the sound of a pickup that is installed upside down. For example, a pickup that is installed upside down on a guitar with a solid body may sound different than the same pickup installed upside down on a guitar with a hollow body.
Whether or not it matters if a pickup is upside down depends on the type of pickup and the guitar. In general, humbuckers are not affected by being installed upside down, while single-coil pickups may sound brighter when they are installed upside down. The type of guitar can also affect the sound of a pickup that is installed upside down.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- The height of the pickup can also affect its sound. A pickup that is installed too high can sound muddy, while a pickup that is installed too low can sound thin.
- The direction of the magnets can also affect the sound of a pickup. Most pickups have their magnets oriented so that the north pole is facing the strings. However, some pickups have their magnets oriented the other way. This can change the sound of the pickup in subtle ways.
Ultimately, the best way to find out if it matters if a pickup is upside down is to experiment. Try installing the pickup upside down and see if you like the sound. If you don’t, you can always flip it back over.
