When it comes to playing metal, your choice of pickups can make all the difference in achieving that crushing tone and blistering sustain that defines the genre. As we step into 2023, the world of guitar pickups has seen significant advancements, offering a wider range of options for metalheads looking to take their sound to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best pickups for metal in 2023, highlighting options for different playing styles and budget considerations.
- Seymour Duncan Black Winter:
The Seymour Duncan Black Winter pickups are a favorite among metal guitarists for their aggressive and high-output sound. Perfect for heavy riffing and searing leads, these pickups provide a tight low end and crisp highs. Whether you’re into classic metal, death metal, or black metal, the Black Winter pickups deliver the darkness and clarity you need to cut through the mix.
- EMG 81/85:
EMG’s 81 and 85 pickup combination has been a staple in the metal community for years. The EMG 81 is known for its razor-sharp attack and powerful midrange, making it ideal for lead guitar work. Its counterpart, the EMG 85, offers a smooth and warm tone with a pronounced sustain that’s perfect for heavy rhythm playing. Together, they provide a versatile and balanced sound that suits a wide range of metal subgenres.
- DiMarzio D Activator X:
DiMarzio’s D Activator X pickups are designed to deliver maximum output and clarity. They excel at articulating complex chording and precise picking techniques, making them a fantastic choice for progressive metal and djent players. These pickups maintain a tight low end while still offering plenty of harmonic richness in the upper frequencies.
- Fishman Fluence Modern:
For those seeking a modern, noiseless solution for their metal rig, the Fishman Fluence Modern pickups are an excellent choice. These pickups use innovative technology to offer two distinct voices, providing players with a wide tonal palette. The Fluence Modern pickups are also noise-free, making them ideal for recording and live performance where unwanted hum can be a problem.
- Bare Knuckle Ragnarok:
If you’re after a boutique pickup that combines craftsmanship and tone, Bare Knuckle’s Ragnarok pickups are worth considering. These hand-wound pickups offer a unique blend of aggression and clarity, making them suitable for a variety of metal styles. The Ragnarok pickups are highly customizable, allowing you to select different winding options and covers to fine-tune your sound.
Conclusion:
In 2023, metal guitarists have a plethora of pickup options to choose from, each catering to specific sonic preferences and playing styles. Whether you prefer the classic crunch of the Seymour Duncan Black Winter, the iconic EMG 81/85 combination, the precision of DiMarzio D Activator X, the versatility of Fishman Fluence Modern, or the boutique craftsmanship of Bare Knuckle
