Setting your guitar pickups hotter can be a game-changer for your tone, especially if you’re aiming for searing lead lines, powerful rhythms, and saturated, overdriven goodness. Hotter pickups produce a stronger output signal, resulting in a thicker, more intense sound that’s perfect for rock, metal, and other high-gain genres. However, dialing in hotter pickups requires careful adjustment to ensure optimal performance and tonal balance. In this comprehensive article, we’ll guide you through the steps and provide valuable tips on how to set your pickups hotter while avoiding common pitfalls.
Before You Begin: Safety First
Before diving into pickup adjustments, remember that working with your guitar’s electronics involves some risk. It’s essential to ensure your guitar is unplugged and, if possible, remove the strings before making any adjustments. If you’re unsure about the process, consider seeking assistance from a professional luthier or technician.
1. Determine Your Pickup Type:
Before making any adjustments, identify the type of pickups you have. Single-coil, humbucker, P90, and other pickup types each have unique characteristics, and the process for setting them hotter may differ slightly.
2. Measure the Current Pickup Height:
Start by measuring the current height of your pickups. Use a ruler or a specialized pickup height gauge if you have one. Record these measurements; you’ll need them for reference when adjusting the pickup height.
3. Raise the Pickups:
Increasing the pickup height is the primary method for setting them hotter. Use a screwdriver or an appropriate tool to turn the height adjustment screws counterclockwise, raising the pickups closer to the strings. Start with small adjustments, typically about 1/16 of an inch (1.6 mm), and gradually increase the height until you achieve the desired output and tone.
4. Find the Sweet Spot:
As you raise the pickups, listen closely to the changes in your tone. You’ll notice increased output and more pronounced harmonics. However, be cautious not to go too high, as this can result in an overpowering and muddy sound.
5. Maintain Balance:
If your guitar has multiple pickups, it’s crucial to maintain balance between them. Ensure that the relative heights of the pickups are consistent. Adjust each pickup individually, starting with the neck pickup and then the bridge pickup, to achieve a balanced tone.
6. Check for String Clearance:
While setting your pickups hotter, keep an eye on string clearance. You want the strings to remain at a comfortable distance from the pickups, avoiding any unwanted contact or buzzing.
7. Test and Tweak:
After making adjustments, plug in your guitar and play through your amplifier. Experiment with various playing styles and techniques to assess the new tone. If necessary, fine-tune the pickup height until you achieve the desired balance between output, sustain, and clarity.
8. Adjust Pole Piece Screws (if applicable):
For pickups with individual pole pieces (common in single-coil pickups), you can further tailor your tone by adjusting the pole piece screws. Lowering or raising specific pole pieces can fine-tune the pickup’s response and balance.
9. Consider Pickup Potting:
If you experience unwanted microphonic feedback or squealing with hotter pickups, consider having them potted. Potting involves filling the pickup coils with wax or epoxy to stabilize them and reduce microphonics.
10. Seek Professional Advice:
If you’re unsure about making these adjustments yourself, it’s wise to consult a professional luthier or technician. They can ensure your pickups are set optimally without risking damage to your guitar.
Conclusion
Setting your pickups hotter can breathe new life into your guitar’s tone, unlocking a world of powerful, high-gain possibilities. However, it’s crucial to approach the process with care and attention to detail. By following these tips and experimenting with your pickup adjustments, you can find the sweet spot that enhances your tone and takes your playing to the next level. Whether you’re aiming for searing leads, thunderous rhythms, or a balanced blend of both, hotter pickups can be the key to achieving your desired sound.
