Slanted pickups are a distinctive feature found in many electric guitars, particularly those in the Stratocaster-style family. While they may appear as a purely aesthetic choice, slanted pickups serve an essential purpose in shaping the guitar’s tone and playability. In this comprehensive article, we will explore what slanted pickups are, why they are used, and the benefits they offer to guitarists.
Understanding Slanted Pickups
Slanted pickups, also known as staggered or angled pickups, are a design feature in which the pole pieces (the magnetic pieces beneath the strings) of the pickup are positioned at varying heights. These heights are typically staggered to match the radius of the guitar’s fretboard. The result is that the pole pieces are closer to the strings on the treble side and farther away on the bass side.
Why Slanted Pickups Are Used
- String Balance and Output: The primary purpose of slanted pickups is to compensate for differences in string thickness and tension. On a standard guitar, the low E string (bass side) is thicker and has more tension than the high E string (treble side). Without staggered pickups, the magnetic field might be unbalanced, resulting in uneven string output and tonal inconsistencies.
- Improved Intonation: Staggered pickups can contribute to better intonation and tuning accuracy across the fretboard. By aligning the pole pieces with the natural curvature of the strings, the guitar’s intonation is more likely to be spot-on.
- Reduced String Pull: Staggered pickups can help reduce the magnetic pull on the strings, which can affect sustain and vibrato performance. By matching the pole piece heights to the string radius, the strings can vibrate more freely.
Benefits of Slanted Pickups
- Balanced String Output: One of the most significant benefits of slanted pickups is achieving a more balanced string output. This results in even volume levels and tone across all strings, eliminating the need for string-specific adjustments on the amplifier or pedalboard.
- Improved Clarity and Articulation: Slanted pickups can enhance the clarity and articulation of each note, especially when playing chords or intricate lead lines. This improved string balance ensures that no single string dominates the mix.
- Enhanced Sustain: By reducing string pull, slanted pickups can contribute to improved sustain. The strings can vibrate more freely and ring out with greater resonance.
- Intonation Accuracy: Guitarists can benefit from more precise intonation, allowing chords and notes to stay in tune up and down the fretboard. This is particularly important for players who frequently use bends and vibrato techniques.
Examples of Guitars with Slanted Pickups
Several iconic guitar models feature slanted pickups as part of their design:
- Fender Stratocaster: Perhaps the most famous example, the Fender Stratocaster utilizes staggered pickups to achieve its distinctive tone and playability.
- Fender Telecaster: Some Telecaster models also feature slanted bridge pickups to address the string balance between the bass and treble strings.
- G&L Legacy: G&L guitars, designed by Leo Fender himself, often incorporate slanted pickups for similar tonal benefits as the Stratocaster.
Conclusion
Slanted pickups are not just a cosmetic feature; they are a practical design choice that significantly impacts a guitar’s tone and playability. These pickups help achieve balanced string output, improved intonation, clarity, and sustain, making them an essential component of many iconic guitar models. Whether you’re a Stratocaster enthusiast or exploring other guitars with slanted pickups, understanding their function and benefits can enhance your appreciation of these classic instruments.
