Electric guitar SG pickups are a popular choice for rock and blues guitarists due to their bold, powerful sound. They have a wide range of tonal possibilities, from warm and mellow to bright and twangy.
Editor’s Note: Electric guitar SG pickupsare an essential upgrade for any guitarist looking to get a classic rock sound. They offer a wide range of tones, from warm and mellow to bright and twangy, making them perfect for a variety of genres.
We’ve done the research and dug through the information to put together this electric guitar SG pickups guide to help you make the right decision for your needs.
Feature | Wide Range Humbucker | Standard Humbucker |
---|---|---|
Output | Higher | Lower |
Tone | Brighter, more twangy | Darker, more mellow |
Clarity | Better | Worse |
Main article topics:
- The history of electric guitar SG pickups
- The different types of electric guitar SG pickups
- The sound of electric guitar SG pickups
- How to choose the right electric guitar SG pickups for your needs
1. Output
The higher output of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is one of their defining characteristics. This increased output gives these pickups a bolder, more powerful sound that is perfect for cutting through a mix. It also makes them ideal for playing distorted or overdriven tones.
The higher output of these pickups is due to their wider coils and increased number of windings. This results in a stronger magnetic field, which in turn produces a more powerful signal. The wider coils also give these pickups a brighter, more twangy tone than standard humbuckers.
The higher output of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range makes them a great choice for guitarists who want a powerful, aggressive sound. They are perfect for rock, blues, and country music, but they can also be used for jazz, metal, and other genres.
Here is a table comparing the output of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range to standard humbuckers:
Pickup Type | Output |
---|---|
Electric guitar SG pickup with a wide range | Higher |
Standard humbucker | Lower |
As you can see, electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range have a significantly higher output than standard humbuckers. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who want a powerful, aggressive sound.
2. Tone
The brighter, more twangy tone of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is another one of their defining characteristics. This tonal difference is due to the wider coils and increased number of windings used in these pickups. The wider coils give these pickups a brighter, more open sound, while the increased number of windings gives them a twangier, more aggressive sound.
- Increased Clarity: The wider coils and increased number of windings in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range also give them a clearer, more defined sound. This makes them ideal for playing complex chords and solos, as each note can be heard clearly and distinctly.
- Improved Harmonics: The wider coils and increased number of windings in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range also give them a richer, more harmonic sound. This makes them ideal for playing lead guitar, as they can produce a wide range of overtones and harmonics.
- Vintage Vibe: The brighter, more twangy tone of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is reminiscent of the classic sound of vintage guitars. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who want to achieve a vintage tone.
- Versatility: Despite their brighter, more twangy tone, electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range are still very versatile. They can be used for a variety of genres, from rock and blues to country and jazz.
Overall, the brighter, more twangy tone of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is one of their most appealing features. This tonal difference makes them ideal for a variety of genres, from rock and blues to country and jazz. If you are looking for a pickup that will give you a bright, twangy sound with plenty of clarity and harmonics, then an electric guitar SG pickup with a wide range is a great option.
3. Clarity
The improved clarity and definition of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is one of their most notable features. This is due to the wider coils and increased number of windings used in these pickups. The wider coils give these pickups a brighter, more open sound, while the increased number of windings gives them a tighter, more focused sound.
- Enhanced Note Separation: The improved clarity and definition of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range makes it easier to hear each individual note, even when playing complex chords or solos. This is especially beneficial for lead guitarists, as it allows them to play with greater precision and articulation.
- Reduced Mud and Boom: The tighter, more focused sound of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range also helps to reduce mud and boom in the low end. This makes these pickups ideal for playing in a band setting, as they will cut through the mix without sounding muddy or boomy.
- Improved Dynamics: The improved clarity and definition of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range also allows for a greater range of dynamics. This makes it easier to play with a variety of picking techniques and to create a more expressive sound.
- Vintage Vibe: The improved clarity and definition of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is reminiscent of the classic sound of vintage guitars. This makes these pickups a great choice for guitarists who want to achieve a vintage tone.
Overall, the improved clarity and definition of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is one of their most appealing features. This makes these pickups ideal for a variety of genres, from rock and blues to country and jazz. If you are looking for a pickup that will give you a clear, defined sound with plenty of articulation and dynamics, then an electric guitar SG pickup with a wide range is a great option.
4. Construction
The wider coil and increased number of windings in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range are two of the most important factors that contribute to their unique sound. The wider coil gives these pickups a brighter, more open sound, while the increased number of windings gives them a hotter output and a tighter, more focused sound.
The wider coil in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range allows for a greater magnetic field to be generated, which in turn produces a stronger signal. This results in a brighter, more twangy sound that is characteristic of these pickups. The increased number of windings also contributes to the brighter sound of these pickups, as well as their hotter output. The tighter winding pattern also helps to focus the magnetic field, which results in a more articulate and defined sound.
The wider coil and increased number of windings in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range make them ideal for a variety of genres, from rock and blues to country and jazz. These pickups offer a unique and powerful sound that can be tailored to a variety of playing styles.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range and standard humbuckers:
Feature | Electric guitar SG pickup with a wide range | Standard humbucker |
---|---|---|
Coil width | Wider | Narrower |
Number of windings | More | Less |
Output | Hotter | Lower |
Tone | Brighter, more twangy | Darker, more mellow |
Clarity | Improved | Worse |
5. Magnets
In the realm of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range, the choice of magnets plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and character of the pickup. Alnico V magnets are frequently employed in these pickups due to their unique tonal attributes that contribute to the distinctive sound of SG pickups.
- Increased Warmth and Smoothness: Alnico V magnets are renowned for their ability to produce a warmer, smoother tone compared to other magnet types. This warmth is particularly desirable in SG pickups, as it helps to balance out the brightness and twang associated with their wide coils and increased windings.
- Enhanced Harmonic Content: Alnico V magnets have a unique magnetic field structure that promotes the natural harmonics of the guitar strings. This results in a richer, more complex sound with a pleasing harmonic overtone structure.
- Vintage Appeal: Alnico V magnets are often used in vintage guitars and pickups due to their ability to recreate the classic warm and resonant tones of early electric guitars. This makes them a popular choice for guitarists seeking a vintage-inspired sound.
- Responsiveness and Dynamics: Alnico V magnets are known for their excellent responsiveness and dynamics. They allow for a wide range of tonal variations based on the player’s picking dynamics and guitar volume, providing a versatile and expressive playing experience.
In summary, the use of Alnico V magnets in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range contributes to their distinctive warm, smooth, and harmonically rich sound. These magnets play a vital role in shaping the overall character of the pickup and are a key factor in achieving the classic SG tone.
6. Spacing
In the realm of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range, the spacing between the strings plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and character of the pickup. SG pickups with wider string spacing offer a unique and distinctive tonal experience that sets them apart from traditional humbuckers.
The wider string spacing in SG pickups allows for a more open and airy sound, with each string having more room to resonate and vibrate independently. This results in a clearer and more defined sound, with improved note separation and clarity. The wider spacing also reduces the likelihood of string interference, which can occur when strings are too close together and interact with each other, causing unwanted overtones and muddiness.
The open and airy sound of SG pickups with wider string spacing is particularly beneficial for playing complex chords and arpeggios, as each note can be heard more distinctly. It also provides a more spacious and resonant sound for lead playing, allowing for greater expression and articulation.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between SG pickups with wider string spacing and traditional humbuckers:
Feature | SG pickups with wider string spacing | Traditional humbuckers |
---|---|---|
String spacing | Wider | Narrower |
Sound | More open and airy | Darker and more mellow |
Note separation | Improved | Worse |
String interference | Reduced | More common |
Overall, the wider string spacing in SG pickups with a wide range contributes to their unique and distinctive sound. This spacing provides a more open and airy sound, with improved note separation and clarity, making them ideal for a variety of playing styles and genres.
7. Genres
Electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range are particularly well-suited for rock, blues, and country music due to their unique sonic characteristics and versatility.
- Rock: The bright, twangy sound of SG pickups with a wide range cuts through dense rock mixes, providing clarity and definition to lead guitar solos and power chords. Their higher output also ensures that they can keep up with the energy and aggression of rock music.
- Blues: The warm, smooth sound of SG pickups with a wide range is perfect for bluesy solos and rhythm playing. Their ability to produce a wide range of tones, from clean and mellow to overdriven and gritty, makes them ideal for capturing the nuances of blues music.
- Country: The open and airy sound of SG pickups with a wide range is well-suited for country music, where clarity and articulation are important. Their twangy character also adds a touch of traditional country flavor to the sound.
In addition to these core genres, SG pickups with a wide range can also be used effectively in other genres, such as jazz, funk, and even metal. Their versatility and ability to adapt to different playing styles make them a popular choice for guitarists of all types.
8. Players
The popularity of electric guitar
SG pickups with a wide range is further cemented by their endorsement and use by renowned guitarists such as Angus Young of AC/DC and Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath.
- Angus Young: Known for his signature SG guitar and aggressive playing style, Angus Young relies on the bright, twangy sound of SG pickups with a wide range to cut through the dense mix of AC/DC’s hard rock anthems.
- Tony Iommi: The legendary guitarist of Black Sabbath, Tony Iommi, is credited with popularizing the heavy metal sound with his use of SG pickups with a wide range. Their higher output and warm, smooth tone provide the foundation for his signature heavy riffs and soaring solos.
The fact that renowned guitarists like Angus Young and Tony Iommi have chosen to use SG pickups with a wide range speaks volumes about their quality and versatility. These pickups offer a unique blend of power, clarity, and warmth that appeals to guitarists of all genres, from rock and blues to metal and beyond.
9. Price
The higher price of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is a reflection of their unique design, construction, and materials. These pickups feature wider coils, more windings, and often use higher-quality magnets, all of which contribute to their distinctive sound and performance.
The wider coils and increased number of windings result in a stronger magnetic field, which in turn produces a hotter output and a brighter, twangier tone. The use of higher-quality magnets, such as Alnico V, further enhances the tonal characteristics of these pickups, providing a warmer, smoother sound with increased harmonic content.
The combination of these factors makes SG pickups with a wide range more expensive to produce than standard humbuckers. However, the unique sound and performance of these pickups make them a worthwhile investment for guitarists who are looking for a versatile and powerful pickup that can handle a variety of genres.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between SG pickups with a wide range and standard humbuckers, including their typical price ranges:
Feature | SG pickups with a wide range | Standard humbuckers |
---|---|---|
Coil width | Wider | Narrower |
Number of windings | More | Less |
Magnets | Often use Alnico V | Typically use ceramic or Alnico II |
Output | Hotter | Lower |
Tone | Brighter, twangier | Darker, mellower |
Price | Typically more expensive | Typically less expensive |
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to invest in SG pickups with a wide range depends on the individual guitarist’s needs and budget. However, for guitarists who are looking for a versatile and powerful pickup that can handle a variety of genres, SG pickups with a wide range are a great option.
10. Installation
The installation of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range typically requires some modification to the guitar body, as these pickups are physically larger than standard humbuckers. This modification involves routing out a wider cavity in the guitar body to accommodate the wider coils and increased number of windings in SG pickups with a wide range.
The amount of modification required will vary depending on the specific guitar model and the type of SG pickup with a wide range being installed. In some cases, it may be necessary to enlarge the pickup routing to fit the wider coils. In other cases, it may also be necessary to deepen the pickup cavity to accommodate the increased number of windings.
While the installation of SG pickups with a wide range requires some modification to the guitar body, this modification is typically straightforward and can be performed by a qualified guitar technician. It is important to note that modifying the guitar body is a permanent change, so it is important to carefully consider whether or not you want to make this modification to your guitar.
Here are some of the reasons why SG pickups with a wide range require some modification to the guitar body:
- The wider coils and increased number of windings in SG pickups with a wide range result in a larger physical size than standard humbuckers.
- The wider coils require a wider cavity in the guitar body to accommodate them.
- The increased number of windings may require a deeper cavity in the guitar body to accommodate them.
If you are considering installing SG pickups with a wide range in your guitar, it is important to consult with a qualified guitar technician to discuss the necessary modifications and to ensure that the installation is done correctly.
Key insights:
- The installation of SG pickups with a wide range typically requires some modification to the guitar body.
- The amount of modification required will vary depending on the specific guitar model and the type of SG pickup with a wide range being installed.
- It is important to consult with a qualified guitar technician to discuss the necessary modifications and to ensure that the installation is done correctly.
11. Sound Holes
The presence of exposed sound holes in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is a key factor that contributes to their unique and distinctive sound. These sound holes allow for a more resonant and open sound, with increased acoustic feedback and a more natural and organic tone.
The exposed sound holes in SG pickups with a wide range allow for a greater interaction between the strings and the magnetic field generated by the pickup. This interaction results in a more dynamic and responsive sound, with increased harmonic content and a richer overall tone. The sound holes also allow for a more natural decay of the notes, providing a more vintage and authentic sound.
The exposed sound holes in SG pickups with a wide range are particularly beneficial for players who use a lot of distortion or overdrive, as they help to reduce muddiness and improve clarity. The sound holes also provide a more balanced and even sound across the entire frequency range, making them ideal for a variety of playing styles and genres.
Here are some of the key insights regarding the connection between sound holes and the sound of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range:
- Exposed sound holes allow for a more resonant and open sound, with increased acoustic feedback and a more natural and organic tone.
- The exposed sound holes allow for a greater interaction between the strings and the magnetic field generated by the pickup, resulting in a more dynamic and responsive sound, with increased harmonic content and a richer overall tone.
- The exposed sound holes help to reduce muddiness and improve clarity, especially when using distortion or overdrive.
- The exposed sound holes provide a more balanced and even sound across the entire frequency range, making them ideal for a variety of playing styles and genres.
Overall, the
presence of exposed sound holes in electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range is a key factor that contributes to their unique and distinctive sound. These sound holes allow for a more resonant, open, and dynamic sound, making them ideal for a variety of playing styles and genres.
12. Aesthetics
Beyond their sonic capabilities, electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range are also visually striking, adding an aesthetic dimension to their appeal.
- Distinctive Appearance: The wider coils of SG pickups with a wide range give them a unique and recognizable appearance, setting them apart from traditional humbuckers. This visual distinction makes them a popular choice for guitarists who want to add a touch of individuality to their instrument.
- Vintage Vibe: The wider coils and exposed sound holes of SG pickups with a wide range evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of vintage guitars from the 1950s and 1960s. This vintage aesthetic appeals to players who appreciate the classic look and feel of traditional guitars.
- Customizable Options: SG pickups with a wide range are available in a variety of finishes and colors, allowing guitarists to customize the look of their instrument to match their personal style. This customization extends to the pickup covers, which can be made from different materials such as nickel, chrome, or gold.
- Enhanced Stage Presence: The visually striking appearance of SG pickups with a wide range makes them stand out on stage, contributing to the overall performance and visual impact of the guitarist.
In conclusion, the aesthetics of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range play a significant role in their overall appeal. Their distinctive appearance, vintage vibe, customizable options, and enhanced stage presence make them a visually captivating choice for guitarists who value both sound and style.
FAQs on Electric Guitar SG Pickups with a Wide Range
Electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range offer a unique and powerful sound that is perfect for a variety of genres. Here are some frequently asked questions about these pickups:
Question 1: What are the key differences between SG pickups with a wide range and standard humbuckers?
SG pickups with a wide range typically have wider coils, more windings, and often use Alnico V magnets. This results in a hotter output, brighter tone, improved clarity, and wider string spacing compared to standard humbuckers.
Question 2: What genres of music are SG pickups with a wide range best suited for?
SG pickups with a wide range are particularly well-suited for rock, blues, and country music. Their bright, twangy sound cuts through dense mixes in rock music, their warm, smooth sound is perfect for bluesy solos, and their open and airy sound is ideal for country music.
Question 3: Which famous guitarists use SG pickups with a wide range?
Renowned guitarists such as Angus Young of AC/DC and Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath have popularized the use of SG pickups with a wide range. Angus Young relies on their bright, twangy sound for his signature solos, while Tony Iommi uses them for his heavy riffs and soaring solos.
Question 4: Are SG pickups with a wide range more expensive than standard humbuckers?
Yes, SG pickups with a wide range are typically more expensive than standard humbuckers due to their unique design, construction, and materials. The wider coils, increased number of windings, and higher-quality magnets contribute to their distinct sound and performance.
Question 5: Do SG pickups with a wide range require any modifications to the guitar body for installation?
Yes, SG pickups with a wide range typically require some modification to the guitar body, as they are physically larger than standard humbuckers. This modification involves routing out a wider cavity in the guitar body to accommodate the wider coils and increased number of windings.
Question 6: What are the key aesthetic features of SG pickups with a wide range?
SG pickups with a wide range are visually striking due to their wider coils and exposed sound holes. This unique appearance gives them a vintage vibe and sets them apart from traditional humbuckers. They are also available in a variety of finishes and colors, allowing guitarists to customize the look of their instrument.
These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range, their key features, and their suitability for various genres and playing styles.
Transition to the next article section:
To explore more about the history, construction, and tonal characteristics of SG pickups with a wide range, continue reading the following sections of this article.
Electric Guitar SG Pickups
Electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range offer a unique and powerful sound that is perfect for a variety of genres. Here are some helpful tips to consider when using these pickups:
Tip 1: Experiment with Pickup Height
The height of your pickups can significantly impact their sound. Raising the pickups closer to the strings will increase the output and brightness, while lowering them will decrease the output and increase the warmth. Experiment with different heights to find the optimal balance for your desired tone.
Tip 2: Use a Clean Amp Setting as a Starting Point
When dialing in the sound of your SG pickups, start with a clean amp setting. This will allow you to hear the true character of the pickups without the influence of distortion or effects. Once you have a clean sound that you like, you can then add distortion or effects to taste.
Tip 3: Play with Different Pickups Combinations
If your guitar has multiple pickups, don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations. SG pickups with a wide range can be used in the neck, middle, or bridge position, and each position offers a unique sound. Try blending the neck and bridge pickups for a thicker, more powerful sound, or use the middle pickup for a brighter, more twangy sound.
Tip 4: Consider Upgrading Your Electronics
The electronics in your guitar, such as the potentiometers and capacitors, can have a significant impact on the sound of your pickups. Upgrading to higher-quality electronics can improve the clarity, definition, and overall responsiveness of your SG pickups.
Tip 5: Try Different Strings
The type of strings you use can also affect the sound of your SG pickups. Experiment with different string gauges and materials to find the combination that best complements the sound you are trying to achieve. Heavier strings will produce a warmer, thicker sound, while lighter strings will produce a brighter, more twangy sound.
Key Takeaways:
- Experiment with pickup height to find the optimal balance for your desired tone.
- Use a clean amp setting as a starting point to hear the true character of the pickups.
- Play with different pickup combinations to find unique and versatile sounds.
- Consider upgrading your electronics to improve the clarity and responsiveness of your pickups.
- Try different strings to find the combination that best complements the sound you are trying to achieve.
By following these tips, you can get the most out
of your electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range and achieve the perfect sound for your playing style.
Conclusion
Electric guitar SG pickups with a wide range offer a unique and powerful sound that is perfect for a variety of genres. Their wider coils, increased number of windings, and often Alnico V magnets result in a hotter output, brighter tone, improved clarity, and wider string spacing compared to standard humbuckers. These pickups are particularly well-suited for rock, blues, and country music, and have been popularized by renowned guitarists such as Angus Young and Tony Iommi.
When using SG pickups with a wide range, it is important to experiment with pickup height, use a clean amp setting as a starting point, play with different pickup combinations, and consider upgrading your electronics and strings. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your SG pickups with a wide range and achieve the perfect sound for your playing style.
The wide range of tonal possibilities offered by SG pickups with a wide range makes them a versatile and powerful choice for guitarists of all levels. Whether you are looking for a bright, twangy sound for country music, a warm, smooth sound for blues, or a powerful, aggressive sound for rock, SG pickups with a wide range can deliver.