Humbuckers are a type of guitar pickup that uses two coils to cancel out hum and noise. They are commonly used in electric guitars, and they can produce a wide range of sounds, from clean and bright to dirty and distorted.
One of the most common questions about humbuckers is whether they should be parallel to the strings. There is no one definitive answer to this question, as it depends on a number of factors, such as the type of guitar, the pickup, and the player’s personal preference.
Arguments for parallel humbuckers
There are a few arguments in favor of parallel humbuckers. First, they are said to produce a more balanced sound. This is because the two coils are evenly spaced, which helps to reduce feedback and noise. Second, parallel humbuckers are said to be more versatile. They can be used to produce a wider range of sounds than angled humbuckers.
Arguments against parallel humbuckers
There are also a few arguments against parallel humbuckers. First, they are said to produce less output. This is because the two coils are not as close together as they are in angled humbuckers. Second, parallel humbuckers are said to be less responsive to dynamics. This means that they may not be as expressive as angled humbuckers.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use parallel humbuckers is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best way to find out what works for you is to experiment.
Here are some additional things to consider when deciding whether to use parallel humbuckers:
- The type of guitar you are using. Parallel humbuckers are generally better suited for guitars with a solid body, as they can help to reduce feedback.
- The pickup you are using. Some pickups are designed to be used in parallel, while others are not.
- Your personal playing style. If you are a heavy user of distortion, then parallel humbuckers may be a good option for you.
If you are still not sure whether to use parallel humbuckers, then the best thing to do is to experiment. Try out a few different guitars and pickups with different settings, and see what you like best.
