Humbuckers and P90s are two popular types of electric guitar pickups. Both can be used to play jazz, but they have different strengths and weaknesses.
Humbuckers
- Warmer tone: Humbuckers have a warmer, fuller sound than P90s. This is due to the fact that they have two coils instead of one. The warmer tone of humbuckers is well-suited for jazz, where a smooth, mellow sound is often desired.
- Reduced hum: Humbuckers are also known for their ability to reduce hum and noise. This is because the two coils in a humbucker are wound in opposite directions, which cancels out any noise that is picked up from the environment. This is especially beneficial for jazz guitarists, who often play in clean or semi-clean settings where any noise can be distracting.
- Greater sustain: Humbuckers also tend to have more sustain than P90s. This means that notes will ring out for longer, which is ideal for jazz guitarists who often use long, legato lines.
- Versatility: Humbuckers are also very versatile pickups. They can be used to play a wide range of genres, including jazz, blues, rock, and even metal. This makes them a good choice for guitarists who want to be able to play a variety of styles.
P90s
- Brighter tone: P90s have a brighter, more articulate sound than humbuckers. This is due to the fact that they have a single coil. The brighter tone of P90s can be well-suited for jazz, especially for soloing and playing chords in higher positions.
- More dynamics: P90s are also known for their greater dynamics than humbuckers. This means that they are more responsive to the player’s picking attack, which can be desirable for jazz guitarists who want to be able to express a wide range of dynamics in their playing.
- More feedback: P90s are also more prone to feedback than humbuckers. This can be a problem for jazz guitarists who play at high volumes, but it can also be used to create a unique and expressive sound.
Which type of pickup is better for jazz?
Ultimately, the best type of pickup for jazz is a matter of personal preference. Some jazz guitarists prefer the warmer tone and greater sustain of humbuckers, while others prefer the brighter tone and greater dynamics of P90s.
If you are not sure which type of pickup is right for you, it is a good idea to try out different guitars with different pickup configurations. Many guitar stores have a variety of guitars available to try, so you can compare the sound of different pickups and see which ones you like best.
Here are some specific examples of jazz guitarists who use humbuckers and P90s:
- Humbuckers: Joe Pass, John McLaughlin, Larry Carlton, Pat Metheny, Robben Ford
- P90s: Wes Montgomery, Grant Green, Kenny Burrell, George Benson, Jim Hall
As you can see, there are many great jazz guitarists who use both humbuckers and P90s. It really depends on the sound you are going for.