Single coil and double coil pickups are the two main types of electric guitar pickups. They have different tonal characteristics and are suited for different genres of music.
Single coil pickups have one coil of wire wrapped around a magnet. They are known for their bright, clear sound and their responsiveness to the player’s touch. Single coil pickups are also susceptible to noise and hum, especially when playing at high volumes.
Double coil pickups, also known as humbuckers, have two coils of wire wrapped around magnets that are wired out of phase with each other. This cancels out noise and hum, giving humbuckers a warmer, fuller sound. Double coil pickups are also less responsive to the player’s touch than single coil pickups.
Here is a table that compares the two types of pickups:
| Characteristic | Single coil | Double coil |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Bright, clear | Warm, full |
| Noise susceptibility | Yes | No |
| Responsiveness | Very responsive | Less responsive |
| Examples | Fender Stratocaster, Fender Telecaster, Rickenbacker 330, Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic | Gibson Les Paul, Gibson SG, PRS Custom 24, ESP Eclipse |
Which type of pickup is right for you?
The best type of pickup for you will depend on your personal preferences and the type of music you play.
- If you are looking for a bright, clear sound with a lot of dynamics, then a single coil pickup may be the right choice for you. Single coil pickups are very versatile, and they can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles, from country to rock to jazz.
- If you are looking for a pickup that is less susceptible to noise and hum, or if you want a warmer, fuller sound, then a double coil pickup may be a better option. Double coil pickups are a good choice for players who want a heavier sound, and they are often used in rock and metal music.
Some additional things to consider when choosing between single coil and double coil pickups:
- Playing style: If you are a player who likes to use a lot of different playing techniques, such as fingerpicking, strumming, and tapping, then a single coil guitar may be a better option for you. Single coil guitars are very versatile, and they can be used to create a wide variety of tones.
- Musical style: If you are playing in a rock or metal band, then a double coil guitar may be a better option for you. Double coil guitars have a warmer, fuller sound that is well-suited for these genres of music.
- Budget: Single coil guitars and double coil guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. When choosing a guitar, it is important to set a budget and stick to it.
No matter which type of guitar you choose, make sure that it is comfortable to play and that it produces the sound that you want.
Here are some additional tips for choosing the right pickups for your guitar:
- Consider the type of music you play. What kind of sound are you going for? If you play rock or metal, you may want to choose double coil pickups. If you play country or jazz, you may want to choose single coil pickups.
- Think about your playing style. Do you use a lot of different playing techniques? If so, you may want to choose a guitar with a variety of pickup configurations.
- Experiment with different guitars. Try out different guitars with different pickups to see what sounds best to you.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right pickups for your guitar is to try out a few different models and see what you like best.