Humbuckers are a popular choice among guitarists for their rich, warm sound. When it comes to coil splitting, the right humbucker can enhance your guitar’s versatility, allowing you to achieve a wider range of tones. This article explores the best humbuckers for coil splitting, their features, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Understanding Coil Splitting
Coil splitting is a technique that allows guitarists to use a humbucker pickup as a single-coil pickup. This is achieved by disconnecting one of the coils in the humbucker, which results in a brighter, sharper sound typical of single-coil pickups. This feature expands your tonal palette, making it possible to switch between the thick, warm tones of a humbucker and the bright, clear tones of a single-coil pickup.
The process of coil splitting can be done using a push-pull pot, a switch, or even a toggle switch. This versatility is a significant reason why many players seek out humbuckers specifically designed for coil splitting. When selecting a humbucker for this purpose, it’s essential to consider how well it performs when split, as not all humbuckers are created equal.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Humbuckers for Coil Splitting
When shopping for humbuckers that excel in coil splitting, several factors should influence your decision. First, consider the tonal characteristics you desire. Some humbuckers maintain a full sound even when split, while others may lose body and warmth. Look for pickups that are known for their clarity and brightness when in single-coil mode.
Next, think about the output level. Higher-output humbuckers can produce a thicker sound in humbucker mode, but they may sound harsh when split. Conversely, lower-output pickups might offer a more balanced tone in both modes. Finally, consider the construction and materials used in the humbucker, as these can significantly impact tone and performance.
Top Humbuckers for Coil Splitting
1. Seymour Duncan JB Model (SH-4)
The Seymour Duncan JB Model is a classic humbucker known for its versatility. It has a high output, which gives it a powerful sound when in humbucker mode. When split, the JB Model retains a surprising amount of clarity and brightness, making it an excellent choice for players who want a robust sound with split coil functionality.
This pickup is perfect for rock, blues, and even metal genres, offering a wide range of tones. Its combination of ceramic magnets and a custom coil design contributes to its unique sound profile, making it a favorite among many guitarists.
2. DiMarzio Super Distortion
The DiMarzio Super Distortion is another popular choice for coil splitting. It’s designed to deliver a thick, powerful sound in humbucker mode, perfect for heavy music styles. When split, the Super Distortion still provides a bright, punchy tone, making it versatile enough for various musical genres.
This pickup features a unique coil winding pattern that helps maintain clarity when split. Its ceramic magnets contribute to its high output and sustain, making it a great option for lead guitarists looking for that extra edge.
3. Bare Knuckle Pickups Mule
The Bare Knuckle Mule humbucker is known for its vintage tone and dynamic response. It offers a warm, full sound in humbucker mode, while when split, it retains a clear and bright tone that resembles classic single-coil pickups. This makes it an excellent choice for blues, jazz, and rock players who appreciate tonal versatility.
Constructed with high-quality materials and attention to detail, the Mule provides a unique character that stands out in any guitar. Its ability to maintain clarity and articulation when split makes it one of the best options for coil-splitting enthusiasts.
4. Gibson Burstbucker Pro
The Gibson Burstbucker Pro is a modern take on the classic PAF humbucker. It features a balanced output and a wide tonal range, making it suitable for various musical styles. When coil-split, the Burstbucker Pro delivers a bright and snappy tone, perfect for clean passages or intricate solos.
This pickup is made using traditional methods, including unpotted coils, allowing for a more organic sound. Its ability to deliver both warmth and clarity makes it a favorite among players who want the best of both worlds.
5. Fishman Fluence Modern
The Fishman Fluence Modern humbucker is known for its innovative design and technology. It features a dual-voiced system that allows players to switch between two distinct sounds, making it incredibly versatile. In humbucker mode, it offers a powerful, articulate tone, while the split coil option delivers a bright, clear sound reminiscent of traditional single-coils.
One of the standout features of the Fluence Modern is its noise-canceling technology, which eliminates unwanted hum and interference. This makes it an excellent choice for players who perform in live settings or record in the studio.
The Benefits of Coil Splitting
Coil splitting offers several benefits to guitarists, primarily the increased tonal versatility it provides. With the ability to switch between humbucker and single-coil sounds, players can easily adapt their tone to suit different musical styles and settings. This feature is particularly useful for guitarists who play in various genres, allowing them to explore a broader range of tones without needing multiple guitars.
Additionally, coil splitting can help players achieve a more dynamic sound. The brighter, sharper tones of a split humbucker can cut through a mix, making them ideal for solos and melodic lines. This added clarity can enhance the overall performance and provide a unique character to your sound.
Installation and Wiring Considerations
When installing humbuckers with coil-splitting capabilities, it’s essential to consider the wiring and installation process. Most humbuckers come with wiring diagrams that provide guidance on how to connect them for coil splitting. Depending on your guitar’s setup, you may need to use a push-pull pot, a toggle switch, or a mini-switch to engage the coil-splitting feature.
If you’re not comfortable with soldering or wiring, it’s advisable to seek assistance from a professional guitar technician. Proper installation ensures that the pickups function correctly and deliver the desired tonal results. It’s also essential to double-check the compatibility of the pickups with your guitar to avoid any issues during installation.
Conclusion
Choosing the best humbuckers for coil splitting can significantly enhance your guitar’s tonal versatility. By considering factors such as tonal characteristics, output levels, and construction materials, you can find a pickup that suits your playing style and preferences. The Seymour Duncan JB Model, DiMarzio Super Distortion, Bare Knuckle Mule, Gibson Burstbucker Pro, and Fishman Fluence Modern are all excellent options that provide great sound and performance when coil-split. Ultimately, the right humbucker will allow you to explore a wider range of tones, making your playing experience more enjoyable and creative.
FAQs
1. Can any humbucker be coil-split?
Not all humbuckers are designed for coil splitting. It’s essential to choose pickups specifically made for this feature, as they maintain tonal integrity when one coil is disengaged.
2. Does coil splitting affect the sound quality?
Coil splitting can change the sound quality of a humbucker, typically resulting in a brighter and thinner tone similar to that of a single-coil pickup. The extent of this change depends on the specific humbucker used.
3. Is coil splitting worth it?
Coil splitting can be worth it for guitarists looking to expand their tonal options. It adds versatility and allows for a broader range of sounds without needing multiple guitars.
4. How do I install a coil-splitting switch?
Installing a coil-splitting switch usually involves soldering wires from the humbucker to the switch and then connecting the switch to the output jack. It’s advisable to follow a wiring diagram specific to your pickup model for accurate installation.
5. Can I coil-split both pickups on a guitar?
Yes, many guitars with two humbuckers can be set up for coil splitting on both pickups. This allows for even greater tonal versatility, enabling players to mix and match sounds as desired.
