Electric Guitar Pickups

Pickups convert string vibrations into electrical signals, defining an electric guitar’s sound. Early single-coil designs led to humbuckers and active systems, providing diverse tonal options. Leading models include Seymour Duncan (JB & ‘59), Fender (Texas Special Strat Set), Gibson (Burstbucker), and EMG (81/85 Active Set). Single-coils offer clarity and bite, humbuckers provide warmth and power, and active pickups deliver high-output consistency. Pickups shape tone across blues, rock, jazz, and metal, making them one of the most impactful guitar modifications.