Whether or not hotter pickups are warmer is a complex question with no easy answer. It depends on a number of factors, including the type of pickup, the construction of the pickup, and the rest of the guitar’s electronics.
In general, hotter pickups have more output, which means that they produce a louder signal. This can make them sound brighter and more aggressive. However, hotter pickups can also sound warmer and fuller, depending on the other factors mentioned above.
One factor that affects the sound of a pickup is the type of magnet used. Alnico magnets are known for producing a warmer sound, while ceramic magnets are known for producing a brighter sound. Hotter pickups often use ceramic magnets, but this is not always the case.
Another factor that affects the sound of a pickup is the construction of the pickup. Single-coil pickups are known for producing a brighter sound, while humbucker pickups are known for producing a warmer sound. Hotter pickups can be either single-coil or humbucker, but humbuckers are more common.
The rest of the guitar’s electronics can also affect the sound of a pickup. For example, a brighter capacitor will make a pickup sound brighter, while a darker capacitor will make a pickup sound darker.
Ultimately, the best way to determine whether or not hotter pickups are warmer is to try them out for yourself. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the sound of a pickup will vary depending on the guitar it is installed in.
Here are some additional tips for choosing pickups:
- Consider the type of music you play. If you play metal or hard rock, then you may want to choose hotter pickups. If you play blues or jazz, then you may want to choose warmer pickups.
- Listen to different pickups before you buy them. This will help you to find the pickups that produce the sound you are looking for.
- Ask a guitar technician for advice on choosing pickups. They can help you to choose the right pickups for your guitar and your playing style.
