The world of guitar pickups is a fascinating one, filled with various types and models designed to capture unique tones and characteristics. Two popular pickup types, the P90 and mini humbucker, each have their own sonic qualities and applications. But what if you’re considering swapping out your mini humbucker for a P90 or vice versa? Can a P90 pickup fit into a mini humbucker slot, and what are the implications of such a modification? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of guitar pickups to explore the compatibility of P90 pickups in mini humbucker slots.
Understanding P90 and Mini Humbucker Pickups:
Before diving into compatibility, it’s essential to understand the fundamental differences between P90 and mini humbucker pickups:
P90 Pickups:
- Single-coil design.
- Known for their warm, fat, and gritty tone.
- Produce a distinct midrange presence.
- Slightly larger dimensions compared to mini humbuckers.
- Notable for their exposed pole pieces.
Mini Humbucker Pickups:
- Humbucker design with two coils and a hum-cancelling effect.
- Deliver a cleaner and smoother sound compared to P90s.
- Often preferred for their brighter, cleaner tone.
- Smaller dimensions, making them a space-efficient choice.
Compatibility Factors:
Several factors come into play when considering whether a P90 pickup can fit into a mini humbucker slot:
- Physical Dimensions: One of the most critical factors is the physical size of the pickups. P90 pickups are generally larger than mini humbuckers, both in terms of length and width. The width of a P90 can exceed the width of a mini humbucker route. Therefore, you may need to modify the guitar’s body or pickguard to accommodate the larger P90 pickup.
- Mounting Screw Locations: The location of the mounting screws on the P90 and mini humbucker pickups may differ. You’ll need to ensure that the screw holes align with the existing holes in your guitar’s body or pickguard. If not, you may need to drill new holes or use alternative mounting methods.
- Electrical Compatibility: P90 pickups are single-coil designs, while mini humbuckers have two coils. This means that you’ll need to consider the wiring and circuitry of your guitar. Switching from a mini humbucker to a P90 may require rewiring and potentially altering the control layout to accommodate the change in pickup configuration.
- Pickup Rings and Covers: P90 pickups often come with pickup covers or soapbar covers. These covers can affect the fit in a mini humbucker route. You may need to source a P90 pickup with a suitable cover design or consider removing the cover altogether.
Modification and Installation:
If you’re determined to fit a P90 pickup into a mini humbucker slot, here are the general steps involved:
- Assess Fitment: Measure the dimensions of the mini humbucker route in your guitar to determine if a P90 pickup will physically fit. Pay attention to width, length, and depth.
- Modify the Route: Depending on the fitment assessment, you may need to modify the guitar’s body or pickguard. This could involve carefully enlarging the pickup route to accommodate the larger P90.
- Drilling Screw Holes: If the screw hole locations don’t align, you may need to drill new holes in the body or pickguard to secure the P90 pickup.
- Rewiring: As mentioned earlier, the electrical configuration of the P90 and mini humbucker is different. You’ll need to rewire your guitar to accommodate the P90, including adjusting the pickup selector and controls.
- Consider Pickup Covers: If your P90 pickup comes with a cover that doesn’t fit properly, you can opt to remove it or source a cover that matches the mini humbucker route.
- Professional Installation: If you’re uncertain about any aspect of the modification process, it’s advisable to seek the assistance of a professional luthier or guitar technician. They can ensure the modification is done correctly and safely.
Sound and Playability Considerations:
It’s essential to keep in mind that swapping pickups can significantly impact your guitar’s tone and playability. P90 pickups have a distinctive tonal character that may not align with the sonic qualities of the mini humbucker you’re replacing. Before making the modification, consider whether the tonal shift is in line with your musical preferences.
In conclusion, fitting a P90 pickup into a mini humbucker slot is possible, but it involves several considerations, including physical dimensions, mounting, wiring, and the potential impact on tone. If you’re committed to making the change, take the time to plan and execute the modification carefully, and consider seeking professional assistance to ensure the best results. Remember that modifying your guitar can yield unique tonal possibilities, but it’s essential to be informed and deliberate in your choices.
