50s Vs 60s Strat Pickups [What is the Difference]

One of the key elements contributing to the distinctive voice of the Stratocaster is its pickups. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the nuances of two revered eras—the 50s and the 60s—to understand the unique characteristics that define their respective Strat pickups. Let’s see the difference of 50s vs 60s Strat Pickups –

Comparison Table About –

About the Stratocaster:

The 1950s – Pioneering the Strat Sound –

The Fender Stratocaster was born in the 1950s & along with it came the introduction of the Strat pickup. This groundbreaking design by Leo Fender included three single-coil pickups. Which played a pivotal role in establishing the iconic sound that would become inseparable from the Stratocaster. Fondly referred to as ’50s pickups, these innovative components formed the bedrock of the instrument’s sonic identity.

The 1960s – Evolution & Experimentation –

As the 1960s dawned, the music landscape was undergoing a radical transformation. The ’60s Strat pickups were a response to the changing musical preferences of the time. Fender embraced experimentation, resulting in pickups that reflected the spirit of the era. The 60s pickups introduced subtle but crucial changes, paving the way for a new sonic landscape.

The 50s Strat Pickups:

1. Alnico Magnets and Bell-Like Tones –

The ’50s Strat pickups were characterized by their Alnico V magnets, contributing to a warm, round tone with a pronounced low end. Players often describe the sound as ‘bell-like,’ a quality that has become synonymous with vintage Stratocaster tones. These pickups are revered for their clarity and responsiveness, making them a preferred choice for many purists.

2. Formidable Midrange Presence –

One of the distinctive features of ’50s pickups is their formidable midrange presence. This characteristic lends itself well to genres like blues and classic rock, where the guitar needs to cut through the mix. The ’50s pickups offer a punchy midrange that adds a certain growl to the overall tone, making them a timeless choice for players seeking a vintage vibe.

3. The Quirk of Reverse-Wound Middle Pickup –

A quirk of the ’50s Strat setup is the reverse-wound middle pickup. This feature, intended to cancel hum in positions two and four of the pickup selector switch, has a subtle yet significant impact on the overall tone. It contributes to a noise-free performance, allowing players to explore a range of tonal possibilities without unwanted interference.

The 60s Strat Pickups:

1. Alnico Magnets and a Brighter Outlook –

Building on the foundation laid by the ’50s pickups, the ‘60s Strat pickups maintained the Alnico V magnets but introduced subtle modifications. These changes resulted in a slightly brighter tonal profile, catering to the evolving sonic preferences of the era. The ’60s pickups are often associated with the chime and sparkle characteristic of the music of the time.

2. Scooped Midrange and the Sound of Surf –

In contrast to the midrange prominence of their ’50s counterparts, the ’60s pickups featured a scooped midrange. This tonal adjustment contributed to a more balanced sound, making them well-suited for the surf music that gained popularity in the early ’60s. The scooped midrange allowed the guitar to sit in the mix differently, creating a sonic signature that resonates with fans of the era.

3. Staggered Pole Pieces and Improved String Balance –

A notable evolution in the ’60s pickups was the introduction of staggered pole pieces. This design aimed to address the issue of uneven string balance, ensuring a more consistent output across all strings. The result was improved intonation and a more even response, enhancing the playability of the instrument.

Choosing Your Strat Pickup:

1. Playing Style and Genre Preferences –

The choice between the ’50s vs ’60s strat pickups often boils down to personal playing style and genre preferences. If you gravitate towards blues, and classic rock, or want that vintage Stratocaster charm, the ’50s pickups might be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a brighter, more balanced tonal palette suitable for surf, pop, or modern styles, the ’60s pickups could be the perfect match.

2. Pickup Resistance and Output –

Another critical factor to consider is the resistance or output of the pickups. ‘50s pickups generally have a lower output compared to ’60s pickups. While this might result in a softer, more dynamic response, ’60s pickups with higher output can drive an amplifier more aggressively, delivering a powerful and saturated tone. Your preference for a clean, vintage sound or a more driven, modern tone will influence this choice.

In the eternal debate of the 50s vs 60s Strat pickups, there is no right or wrong answer—only a journey of sonic exploration. Whether you find yourself captivated by the vintage elegance of the ’50s or the wave-riding spirit of the ’60s, each pickup era offers a distinct sonic tapestry waiting to be woven into your musical legacy.

FAQs –

Last Updated on December 2, 2023 by Perry Garner