There are a few reasons why Strat pickups are angled.
- To compensate for the change in string length. The strings on a Stratocaster are longer on the bass side and shorter on the treble side. Angling the pickups helps to compensate for this difference, so that all of the strings have the same output.
- To create a brighter sound. The angle of the pickups also affects the sound. Angling the pickups towards the bridge creates a brighter sound, while angling them away from the bridge creates a warmer sound. The standard Strat pickup configuration is angled towards the bridge, which gives Strat guitars their signature bright, twangy sound.
- To improve the balance of the strings. Angling the pickups also helps to improve the balance of the strings. The bass strings tend to be louder than the treble strings, so angling the pickups towards the bridge helps to boost the treble strings and bring them into balance with the bass strings.
In addition to these reasons, the angled pickups on a Stratocaster are also a part of the guitar’s iconic design. The angled pickups are one of the things that makes a Strat look like a Strat.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the angled pickups on a Stratocaster:
- The angle of the pickups can be adjusted to taste. Some players prefer to have the pickups angled more towards the bridge, while others prefer to have them angled less towards the bridge. You can experiment with different pickup angles to find what sounds best to you.
- The angle of the pickups can also affect the intonation of the guitar. If the pickups are not angled correctly, it can cause the guitar to go out of tune. It is important to have your guitar set up by a qualified technician to make sure that the pickups are angled correctly.
- The angled pickups on a Stratocaster are more susceptible to feedback than pickups on other guitars. This is because the angled pickups are closer to the strings. If you are experiencing feedback, you can try moving your amp further away from the guitar, or you can try using a noise gate pedal.
Overall, the angled pickups on a Stratocaster are a key part of the guitar’s iconic sound and design. By understanding the reasons why the pickups are angled, you can better appreciate the unique sound of a Strat.
