Slash, the legendary guitarist of Guns N’ Roses fame, is not only known for his iconic top hat and fiery guitar solos but also for his distinctive guitar tone. Central to his signature sound are the pickups he uses in his guitars. In this article, we’ll explore the pickups that Slash has favored over his illustrious career and how they contribute to his unmistakable guitar sound.
- Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro
One of Slash’s most famous pickup choices is the Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro. This pickup is featured in his Gibson Les Paul Standard and Gibson Custom Shop models. The Alnico II Pro is known for its warm and sweet tone, with a balanced output that provides creamy, singing sustain.
Slash’s preference for the Alnico II Pro reflects his love for classic rock and blues-inspired tones. These pickups excel at delivering the rich, vintage sound that defines his playing style.
- Gibson ’59 Tribute Humbuckers
Slash’s appetite for vintage-inspired tones led him to the Gibson ’59 Tribute humbuckers. These pickups are modeled after the legendary PAF (Patent Applied For) humbuckers that graced vintage Gibson Les Pauls.
The Gibson ’59 Tribute humbuckers offer a rich, warm sound with excellent clarity and articulation. They provide the sustain and power necessary for Slash’s dynamic solos while retaining the nuanced, bluesy character he seeks in his tone.
- Custom-Built Seymour Duncan Signature Pickups
In collaboration with Seymour Duncan, Slash has developed his signature line of pickups. These custom-built pickups are designed to capture the essence of his tone. The Seymour Duncan Slash Signature Alnico II Pro Humbucker set combines the warmth of the Alnico II Pro with some of Slash’s personal modifications.
Slash’s signature pickups are known for their versatility, making them suitable for various musical styles, from bluesy cleans to roaring rock distortion.
- EMG Pickups (Early Career)
In the early days of Guns N’ Roses, Slash used guitars equipped with active EMG pickups. These pickups are known for their high output and clarity, offering a sharp, cutting tone that suited the band’s aggressive sound.
While Slash eventually transitioned to passive pickups for his main Les Pauls, his brief use of EMG pickups contributed to the distinctive tone heard on albums like “Appetite for Destruction.”
Conclusion
Slash’s choice of pickups has been a pivotal factor in shaping his legendary guitar sound. His preference for warm, vintage-inspired tones with a touch of bluesy character is evident in his pickup selections. Whether it’s the Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro, Gibson ’59 Tribute humbuckers, or his own signature Seymour Duncan pickups, each choice reflects his pursuit of the iconic sound that has made him a guitar hero for generations.
Slash’s commitment to crafting his signature tone has not only defined his identity as a guitarist but has also influenced countless players who seek to capture the essence of rock ‘n’ roll in their own music. His enduring legacy serves as a testament to the profound impact that the right pickups can have on a guitarist’s sound and style.
