Guitar pickups are an essential component in producing the desired tone and sound of a guitar. Two common types of pickups are high output pickups and low output pickups. Each type offers a distinct sound and tone that appeals to different playing styles and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at both high and low output pickups, the differences between them, and which type of pickup may be best for your playing style.
What are High Output Pickups?
High output pickups are designed to produce a strong, powerful, and often distorted sound. They are commonly used in heavier styles of music such as metal, hard rock, and punk. High output pickups have a higher output level, meaning they produce a louder and more aggressive sound than low output pickups. This makes them ideal for players who like to play at high volumes and want to achieve a powerful, driving tone.
One of the defining features of high output pickups is their high DC resistance. This means that the wire used in the pickup has a higher resistance to electrical current, resulting in a stronger magnetic field. The strong magnetic field creates a higher output level, which in turn contributes to the powerful and often distorted sound that high output pickups are known for.
What are Low Output Pickups?
Low output pickups, on the other hand, are designed to produce a more subtle and refined sound. They are commonly used in genres such as blues, jazz, and country, where a warm and clear tone is desired. Low output pickups have a lower output level, meaning they produce a quieter and less aggressive sound than high output pickups. This makes them ideal for players who prefer to play at lower volumes and want to achieve a smooth, clean tone.
One of the defining features of low output pickups is their low DC resistance. This means that the wire used in the pickup has a lower resistance to electrical current, resulting in a weaker magnetic field. The weaker magnetic field creates a lower output level, which in turn contributes to the smoother and cleaner sound that low output pickups are known for.
Differences between High and Low Output Pickups
The main difference between high and low output pickups lies in their output level and the resulting tone and sound that they produce. High output pickups have a higher output level and produce a stronger, more aggressive sound, while low output pickups have a lower output level and produce a subtler, smoother sound.
Another difference between the two types of pickups is the way they respond to different playing techniques. High output pickups are often favored by players who like to use a lot of gain and overdrive, as they can handle the increased volume and distortion. Low output pickups, on the other hand, are favored by players who prefer a cleaner tone and may not use as much gain or overdrive.
Which Type of Pickup is Best for Your Playing Style?
The choice between high and low output pickups ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of sound you want to achieve. If you are a player who prefers a powerful, driving tone and likes to play at high volumes, then high output pickups may be the best choice for you. If you prefer a smoother, cleaner tone and play at lower volumes, then low output pickups may be a better fit for you.
It is worth noting that the type of guitar you have can also play a role in the decision-making process. Some guitars are designed specifically for high output pickups, while others are better suited for low output pickups. It is important to consider the type of guitar you have and the sound you want to achieve when choosing between high and low output pickups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between high output pickups and low output pickups?
High output pickups produce a strong, powerful, and often distorted sound, while low output pickups produce a subtler and cleaner sound. The main difference between the two is their output level, with high output pickups having a higher output level and low output pickups having a lower output level.
Which type of pickup is best for playing metal or hard rock music?
High output pickups are often favored by players who play heavier styles of music such as metal and hard rock, as they produce a strong and powerful sound.
Which type of pickup is best for playing blues, jazz, or country music?
Low output pickups are often favored by players who play styles such as blues, jazz, or country, as they produce a subtler and cleaner sound.
Can you change the output level of a pickup?
Yes, the output level of a pickup can be changed by adjusting the magnetic field strength or by changing the pickup itself.
Does the type of guitar you have impact the choice of pickup?
Yes, the type of guitar you have can play a role in the decision-making process for choosing between high and low output pickups. Some guitars are designed specifically for high output pickups, while others are better suited for low output pickups.
Can you use a high output pickup in a clean tone setting?
Yes, high output pickups can be used in clean tone settings, but they may produce a louder and more aggressive sound than desired. Low output pickups are often favored for clean tone settings.
Can you use a low output pickup in a heavy distortion setting?
Yes, low output pickups can be used in heavy distortion settings, but they may not handle the increased volume and distortion as well as high output pickups.