Where should I put the pick up for metal songs? This is a question that often plagues guitarists who are trying to achieve the perfect tone for their metal tracks. The placement of the pickup in an electric guitar can significantly impact the sound and playability, especially when it comes to metal music. In this article, we will explore the various options for pickup placement and provide some tips on how to get the best metal tone from your guitar.
Metal music, known for its aggressive and powerful sound, requires a guitar setup that can handle the intense playing style. The pickup, which is responsible for converting the vibrations of the guitar strings into electrical signals, plays a crucial role in shaping the tone. The placement of the pickup can affect the sound in several ways, including the volume, clarity, and overall tone of the guitar.
One common misconception among guitarists is that the bridge pickup is always the best choice for metal. While the bridge pickup does offer a bright and aggressive tone that is often associated with metal, it may not be the best option for everyone. The bridge pickup is typically closer to the bridge, which means it picks up more of the higher frequencies and less of the lower frequencies. This can result in a thin and piercing sound that may not suit all metal styles.
On the other hand, the neck pickup is located closer to the neck of the guitar, which means it picks up more of the lower frequencies and less of the higher frequencies. This can result in a warmer and more rounded tone that may be more suitable for certain metal sub-genres, such as doom metal or sludge metal. However, the neck pickup may not provide enough attack and clarity for more traditional metal styles.
A more versatile option is to use a combination of both the neck and bridge pickups, known as a split-coil pickup. Split-coil pickups are designed to provide a balanced tone by combining the frequencies of both the neck and bridge pickups. This can be a great option for guitarists who want to switch between different tones quickly, as split-coil pickups often have a toggle switch that allows for easy switching between neck and bridge pickups.
When it comes to pickup placement, it’s important to consider the following factors:
1. Pickup height: The height of the pickup can affect the volume and clarity of the tone. A pickup that is too low may produce a weak and muddy sound, while a pickup that is too high may produce a bright and piercing sound. It’s best to experiment with different pickup heights to find the sweet spot for your metal tone.
2. Pickup angle: The angle of the pickup can also impact the tone. A pickup that is too flat may produce a thin and weak sound, while a pickup that is too tilted may produce a harsh and bright sound. It’s important to find the right angle that balances the volume, clarity, and overall tone.
3. Pickup type: Different pickup types, such as single-coil, humbucker, or P-90, offer different tones. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright and clear tone, while humbuckers are known for their warm and fat tone. P-90 pickups offer a unique blend of both single-coil and humbucker characteristics. Experimenting with different pickup types can help you find the perfect tone for your metal songs.
In conclusion, where you put the pick up for metal songs is a highly subjective decision that depends on your personal preferences and the specific style of metal you are playing. By considering factors such as pickup height, angle, and type, you can achieve the perfect metal tone for your guitar. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find the pickup placement that works best for you.
