Best Humbuckers For Les Paul (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best humbuckers for your Les Paul, there are a few things you need to consider before making a purchase. First, you need to consider your playing style and the type of sound you want to achieve. There are humbuckers that offer a vintage tone, while others offer a heavier and more modern sound. You also need to consider the price range and the brand reputation of the product to ensure you are getting a high-quality and reliable product.
When buying humbuckers for your Les Paul guitar, consider the output and the resistance. Higher output and resistance mean a hotter pickup that produces a louder and more distorted sound. Lower output and resistance produce a cleaner and more articulate sound. It's important to think about whether you want a pickup with a high or low output, and whether you want a pickup with a higher or lower resistance.
Are you tired of lackluster tone from your Les Paul? Do you want to give your guitar a sonic upgrade? Whether you're looking for a vintage or modern sound, there are countless humbuckers on the market that can provide you with the tone you're looking for. Want to achieve those classic tones of Jimmy Page with your Les Paul? Looking to shred like John Petrucci? Whatever your musical ambitions might be, finding the right set of humbuckers can take your tone to new heights. Keep these factors in mind as you begin your search for the best humbuckers for your Les Paul.
10 Best Humbuckers For Les Paul
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This product is ideal for enhancing the sound quality of an electric guitar's neck pickup in a Les Paul style guitar.
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Ideal for upgrading the sound quality and tone of a Les Paul P90 style electric guitar.
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3
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Ideal for electric guitars, specifically the LP Les Paul model, and provides a double coil humbucker pickup set for the neck and bridge.
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Ideal for upgrading the pickups of a Les Paul style electric guitar to achieve a classic tone with ceramic humbuckers.
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5
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The product is ideal for achieving a classic, high-output rock tone favored by Slash and other guitarists.
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6
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This product is ideal for enhancing the sound quality of Les Paul style electric guitars.
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7
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The product is ideal for upgrading guitar pickups to achieve better sound quality and tone.
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This product is ideal for electric guitars in the style of Les Paul, providing vintage tone with Alnico 5 PAF Style Humbucker pickups.
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9
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Ideal for replacing humbucker pickups in a Gibson Les Paul electric guitar to improve sound quality and performance.
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10
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This product is ideal for replacing the bridge and neck pickups on a Gibson Les Paul electric guitar.
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1. Alnico 5 Guitar Neck Pickup By Oripure
This humbucker pickup is designed to enhance the treble and bass sounds of your guitar, making it suitable for Old Jazz and Blues music styles. It features Alnico 5 magnets and a single row of adjustable screw pole pieces that allow you to customize your sound. The pickup is vacuum wax potted and sealed to eliminate noise, ensuring a clear and smooth output.
With a resistance of 7-8K and a peak frequency of 3.6H, this neck pickup delivers a warm, fat, full, and gentle bass sound, while making the treble sounds bright, mellow and bloom. The pole spacing is 50mm and it is chrome plated for durability. The base is made of white copper, ensuring a sturdy and reliable construction.
The output line of this humbucker pickup features a 4-conductor PVC cable that facilitates complex pickup switching setups, giving you more versatility in your playing. The pickup comes with screws and springs that make installation easy and hassle-free.
Whether you are a professional musician or a hobbyist, this humbucker pickup is an excellent choice for improving the quality of your guitar sound. Its specifications and parameters make it a reliable and high-quality product that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
2. Metallor Humbucker Style Pickups Bridge And Neck Set For Les Paul P90 Style Electric Guitar. (Cr)
This set of neck and bridge pickups with accompanying hardware is a must-have for any guitar enthusiast looking to upgrade or replace their P90 style pickups. The pickups are equipped with a powerful ceramic bar magnet that produces a clear and dynamic sound.
The bridge pickup boasts a resistance of 8.0k and an inductance of 4.5H, while the neck pickup has a resistance of 7.5k and an inductance of 3.7H. The pole spacing for the bridge pickups is approximately 52mm, while the neck pickups have a spacing of 50mm.
With their superior sound quality and precise specifications, these pickups are perfect for any guitar player looking to enhance their playing experience. They are easy to install and come complete with all the necessary hardware for a hassle-free installation process.
3. Gold Lp Electric Guitar Pickup Set
Introducing the Ceramic Magnet Humbucker Pickups Set, a stellar choice for guitar enthusiasts seeking to elevate their electric LP guitars. The pickups boast a striking golden color and feature a ceramic magnet design that provides a high output and warm tone.
The Neck Pickup Pole Spacing measures at 50mm/1.97in, while the Bridge Pickup Pole Spacing is slightly wider at 52mm/2.05in, ensuring a perfect fit for most electric LP guitars. The neck pickup has a resistance of 8.6K, while the bridge pickup boasts a higher resistance of 12.7K, creating a balanced and dynamic sound.
Crafted with top-of-the-line materials, this humbucker pickups set is compatible with any electric guitar that can accommodate a humbucker pickup installation. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this pickups set is a reliable and impressive choice.
Experience superior sound quality and elevated performance with the Ceramic Magnet Humbucker Pickups Set. Upgrade your electric LP guitar and take your music to the next level with this exceptional product.
4. Classic Tone Humbucker Pickups For Les Paul Guitar
The classic PAF style humbucking pickup is a perfect fit for most Epiphone/USA Les Paul, SG, ES style guitars, Ibanez, and many similar models. It is designed to be used in either the neck or bridge position of the guitar. The pickup is made with genuine Wilkinson parts, ensuring the highest quality and durability.
The neck and bridge positions have a 50mm and 52mm pole spacing, respectively. To make sure that there is no noise during use, the pickup is wax potted. On the back of the pickup, there is an N for neck and a B for bridge, making it easy to identify which position it should be placed in.
The classic vintage tone of this pickup is exceptional, and it delivers an authentic sound that is second to none. The magnet is made of ceramic, and the D.C. Resistance is 7.6K for the neck position and 14.1K for the bridge position. The four-conductor wires are color-coded for easy installation. The black wire is ground, the yellow wire is hot, and the red and white wires are for splitting the coil.
The package includes two pickups, one for the neck position and one for the bridge position. Please note that the screws included in the package may not fit your specific guitar model, so it is recommended that you use your own screws if possible.
5. Seymour Duncan Aph-2s Alnico Ii Pro Slash Set Humbucker Pickups – Zebra/reverse Zebra
This high-quality humbucker pickup is a top-of-the-line product designed for use in both the neck and bridge positions of your electric guitar. It features powerful Alnico II magnets that provide exceptional tone and clarity, making it perfect for any style of music. With its classic Zebra/Reverse Zebra color scheme, this pickup will add a touch of style to your guitar while delivering outstanding sound quality.
The Alnico II magnets used in this humbucker pickup are known for their warm and rich sound, making them a popular choice among guitarists of all levels. Whether you're playing blues, rock, or metal, this pickup will help you achieve the tone you're looking for. Plus, its dual design means you can use it in both the neck and bridge positions, making it a versatile addition to your guitar.
When it comes to looks, this humbucker pickup doesn't disappoint. The Zebra/Reverse Zebra color scheme is a classic choice that will complement any guitar, while also giving it a touch of personality. The high-quality construction ensures that this pickup will last for years to come, making it a smart investment for any serious musician.
6. Chrome Tone Humbucker For Les Paul
Introducing the classic PAF style humbucking pickup that is designed to fit most Epiphone/USA Les Paul, SG, ES style guitars, and many similar models. This pickup is specifically made for the neck position and features genuine Wilkinson parts that are built to last.
With a 50mm pole spacing and wax potting, this pickup offers superior sound quality and stability. The Alnico V magnets provide incredible focus and dynamics, giving users the classic PAF vintage tone they love.
This pickup has a magnet of Alnico V and a D.C. Resistance of 7.6K. The four conductor wires make it easy to install with the black wire serving as ground, the yellow wire as hot, and the red and white wires for splitting coil.
In the package, you will receive one pickup. Please note that the screws provided may not fit your usage, so it is recommended to use your own if possible.
Upgrade your guitar with this high-quality pickup and experience the classic PAF vintage tone like never before.
7. Seymour Duncan Sh-Pg1b&n Pearly Gates Humbucker Pickup Set Nickel Les Paul
Introducing the SH-PG1b Pearly Gates bridge and SH-PG1n Pearly Gates neck humbucker pickup set, now available with nickel covers. These high-quality pickups are designed to give your guitar a rich and warm sound, perfect for a variety of music styles.
The SH-PG1b Pearly Gates bridge pickup features a moderate output and a warm, slightly compressed tone. It is ideal for both rhythm and lead playing, and is capable of producing a range of harmonics and overtones. The nickel cover adds a sleek and stylish look to your guitar.
The SH-PG1n Pearly Gates neck pickup has a similar sound to the bridge pickup, but with a slightly lower output and a more focused midrange. This pickup is perfect for achieving a smooth, creamy tone in your solos and lead playing. The nickel cover adds a touch of elegance to your guitar's appearance.
Both pickups are designed to work together seamlessly, producing a well-balanced and articulate sound. They are easy to install and are compatible with most standard humbucker pickup routes.
The SH-PG1b Pearly Gates bridge and SH-PG1n Pearly Gates neck humbucker pickup set ships quickly and securely via USPS priority mail in a small flat-rate box. This ensures that your pickups arrive in top condition and ready to install.
Upgrade your guitar's sound with the SH-PG1b Pearly Gates bridge and SH-PG1n Pearly Gates neck humbucker pickup set with nickel covers. You will be impressed with the warm and dynamic tone these pickups produce.
8. Wilkinson Paf Style Humbuckers For Les Paul
The Classic PAF Style Humbucking Pickup is a top-quality product that is a perfect fit for most Epiphone/USA Les Paul, SG, ES style guitars, or similar instruments. It is designed for both neck and bridge positions with 50mm/52mm pole spacing, and has been crafted using genuine Wilkinson parts. The product has been wax potted to ensure durability and longevity.
One of the standout features of this humbucking pickup is its classic PAF vintage tone. The Alnico V magnets work together to produce an incredible focus and dynamic sound, which is sure to impress musicians of all levels.
The product boasts an impressive D.C. Resistance of 7.6K for the neck and 14.1K for the bridge, with four conductor wires included. The black wire is ground, the yellow wire is hot, and the red and white wires are for splitting the coil. These features allow for easy installation and customization, making it a versatile and flexible choice for guitarists.
In addition to its impressive technical specifications, the package includes 2pcs pickup. However, it is important to note that the screws included may not fit your specific usage. In such cases, it is recommended to use your own screws for optimal results.
9. Rocket Hz5 Electric Guitar Humbucker Pickups For Gibson Les Paul Replacement (Neck&bridge)
This humbucker pickup is a versatile product that is compatible with a wide range of electric guitars. It can be easily installed on guitars that have a humbucker pickup configuration. The magnet type used in this pickup is Alnico 5, which is known for producing a warm and clear sound. The pole spacing of the neck is 10MM, while the bridge is 10.4MM. The baseplate is custom-etched nickel silver, which adds durability and longevity to the product. The coil wire is made of 42 AWG enamel, which is known for its excellent sound quality.
When it comes to tonal quality, this humbucker pickup delivers a smooth, warm, and clear sound with great vitality. It is ideal for guitarists who are looking for a pickup that can produce a wide range of tones and can be used for different music genres.
The package includes one humbucker pickup along with screws that make the installation process simple and easy. With this product, guitarists can expect a high-quality pickup that delivers excellent sound quality and is built to last.
10. Ascendas Hp5 Double-Coil Humbucker Pickups For Gibson Les Paul (Black)
The humbucker pickup is a versatile accessory that is suitable for electric guitars that can be installed with a humbucker pickup, including LP models. The pickup boasts a magnet type of Alnico 5 and has a neck pickup resistance of 7.9k and a bridge pickup resistance of 8.8k. Its baseplate is custom-etched nickel silver and is fully wax-potted and sealed to eliminate any unwanted feedback or noise.
This humbucker pickup offers a clean, warm, and smooth sound that adds great vitality to any electric guitar. It is perfect for those looking to upgrade their guitar's sound quality. The package includes one humbucker pickup with screws, and it comes in a sleek black color that complements any guitar's design.
With its wide applicability and high-quality specifications, this humbucker pickup is a great investment for any guitar enthusiast. It is easy to install and compatible with a range of electric guitars, making it a versatile accessory that can enhance any guitar's sound. The pickup's custom-etched nickel silver baseplate and fully wax-potted and sealed design ensure that it delivers a clear and distortion-free sound.
Best Humbuckers For Les Paul FAQs
Are there any humbuckers specifically designed for a certain Les Paul model or year?
While there are no humbuckers specifically designed for a certain Les Paul model or year, there are certain humbuckers that are popular choices for Les Paul guitars. One of the most popular humbuckers for Les Pauls is the Gibson Burstbucker, which was designed to replicate the sound of original PAF pickups from the late 1950s. Another popular choice is the Seymour Duncan SH-1 '59, which is known for its warm and articulate sound. The DiMarzio PAF 36th Anniversary is also a popular choice for Les Paul players, as it is designed to replicate the sound of vintage PAF pickups. Ultimately, the choice of humbucker will depend on personal preference and the sound that the player is looking for. It is always best to try out different pickups to find the one that best suits your playing style and the sound you are looking to achieve.
Are vintage-style humbuckers better for a Les Paul than modern ones?
Whether vintage-style humbuckers are better for a Les Paul than modern ones is a matter of personal preference. Vintage-style humbuckers are designed to replicate the sound of the original pickups found on vintage Les Pauls from the 1950s and 1960s. They tend to have a warm, creamy tone with a slightly lower output than modern humbuckers. On the other hand, modern humbuckers are designed to offer a wider range of tonal options with higher output levels, making them more versatile for different styles of music.
It really depends on the sound you're looking for. If you're after that classic, vintage Les Paul tone, then vintage-style humbuckers might be the way to go. However, if you want a more modern sound with more tonal options, then modern humbuckers might be a better fit. Ultimately, it's worth experimenting with different pickups to find the sound that best suits your playing style and musical preferences.
Can aftermarket humbuckers improve the sound of a Les Paul?
Yes, aftermarket humbuckers can certainly improve the sound of a Les Paul guitar. While the stock pickups that come with most Les Pauls are usually high-quality, upgrading to aftermarket humbuckers can provide a different tonal palette and potentially enhance the guitar's overall sound and playability.
Aftermarket humbuckers can vary greatly in terms of construction and sound, so it's important to research and choose a set that complements your playing style and preferences. Some popular aftermarket humbuckers for Les Pauls include the Seymour Duncan JB, DiMarzio Super Distortion, and Bare Knuckle Warpig.
It's worth noting that installing aftermarket pickups can be a bit more complicated than swapping out other guitar components, so it may be best to have a professional luthier handle the installation. Additionally, it's important to remember that even the best pickups won't magically transform a poorly set up guitar into a great-sounding instrument, so it's important to address any other issues with your Les Paul before investing in new pickups.
How do different types of magnets affect the sound of a Les Paul's humbuckers?
The type of magnets used in a Les Paul's humbuckers can greatly affect the sound produced by the guitar. There are several types of magnets commonly used in humbuckers, including Alnico II, Alnico V, and ceramic magnets.
Alnico II magnets are known for producing a warm, vintage-style tone with a softer attack. This type of magnet is often used in neck pickups to produce a smooth, mellow sound.
Alnico V magnets are stronger than Alnico II and produce a brighter, more aggressive tone with a sharper attack. These magnets are commonly used in bridge pickups to add clarity and definition to the sound.
Ceramic magnets are the strongest of the three and produce a very bright, aggressive tone with a sharp attack. They are often used in high-output pickups for heavy metal and hard rock styles.
Ultimately, the choice of magnet will depend on the player's personal preferences and the style of music they are playing. Experimenting with different types of magnets can help a player achieve their desired tone.
How do humbuckers with different coil configurations affect the sound of a Les Paul?
The coil configuration of humbuckers can have a significant impact on the sound of a Les Paul guitar. The most common configuration is the standard humbucker, which features two coils wound in opposite directions and connected in series. This configuration provides a balanced tone with a strong midrange and plenty of output.
However, some Les Pauls may feature different coil configurations, such as a coil split or coil tap. A coil split allows the player to switch between using both coils of the humbucker and just one coil, resulting in a thinner and brighter tone. On the other hand, a coil tap allows the player to decrease the number of windings on one of the coils, resulting in a lower output and a more vintage sound.
Other coil configurations, such as the P-90 and mini humbucker, can also be used in Les Pauls. The P-90 provides a more aggressive and raw sound with plenty of midrange, while the mini humbucker offers a brighter and more focused tone.
Ultimately, the choice of humbucker and its coil configuration will depend on the player's preference and the style of music they play.
What are the best humbuckers for a Les Paul guitar?
When it comes to finding the best humbuckers for a Les Paul guitar, there are a variety of options to consider. One popular choice is the Seymour Duncan SH-4 JB Humbucker, which is known for its versatility and ability to handle a wide range of genres. Another highly-regarded option is the Gibson BurstBucker Pro, which offers a balanced tone with a slightly higher output. The DiMarzio DP100 Super Distortion is also a popular choice for those seeking a high-gain sound with plenty of sustain. Other notable humbucker options include the EMG 81/85 set, the Bare Knuckle Aftermath, and the Lollar Imperial. Ultimately, the best humbuckers for a Les Paul guitar will depend on the player's individual preferences and playing style. It's important to do research and possibly try out different pickups to find the perfect fit for your specific needs.
What are the most popular humbucker brands for a Les Paul?
When it comes to humbucker pickups for Les Paul guitars, there are several popular brands that are widely used by guitarists around the world. Some of the most popular brands include Gibson, Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio, EMG, and Bare Knuckle Pickups.
Gibson is the original manufacturer of the Les Paul guitar, and their humbucker pickups are highly regarded for their warm, vintage tone. Seymour Duncan is another popular brand that offers a wide range of humbucker pickups for Les Paul guitars, including the iconic PAF-style pickups. DiMarzio is also well-known for their high-quality humbucker pickups, which are favored by many guitarists for their clarity and articulation.
For those looking for a more modern, high-output sound, EMG is a popular choice. Their active humbucker pickups are designed to deliver a powerful, distortion-heavy tone that is popular in heavy metal and hard rock genres. Finally, Bare Knuckle Pickups is a boutique brand that has gained a reputation for their hand-wound humbucker pickups, which are known for their unique tonal characteristics and exceptional craftsmanship.
Ultimately, the choice of humbucker brand comes down to personal preference and the specific sound that a guitarist is looking for. Each brand has its own unique characteristics and strengths, so it's important to do research and try out different pickups to find the perfect fit for your Les Paul guitar.
What is the difference between active and passive humbuckers for a Les Paul?
Active and passive humbuckers are two different types of pickups used in electric guitars, including Les Pauls. The main difference between them is the way they are powered and the resulting sound they produce.
Passive humbuckers are the traditional type of pickup and are powered by the magnetic field created by the guitar's strings. They have a warm, organic sound and are known for their dynamic range, meaning they respond well to changes in playing style. This makes them a popular choice for blues, jazz, and classic rock.
Active humbuckers, on the other hand, use an external power source, usually a battery, to boost the signal and produce a more compressed, high-gain sound. They have a more consistent output and are popular for heavy metal and hard rock styles.
In terms of Les Pauls, passive pickups are the more traditional choice and are often preferred by players who want a more natural, vintage sound. However, some modern Les Pauls come equipped with active pickups for a more modern, high-gain sound. Ultimately, the choice between active and passive humbuckers comes down to personal preference and the style of music being played.
What is the ideal output level for humbuckers on a Les Paul?
The ideal output level for humbuckers on a Les Paul can vary depending on personal preference and the specific type of humbuckers being used. However, as a general guideline, many guitarists prefer an output level that is balanced and provides a good mix of clarity and warmth. This typically falls around the medium output range, with a range of around 7.5k-8.5k ohms for the neck pickup and 8.5k-9.5k ohms for the bridge pickup.
It's important to note that the ideal output level can also depend on the style of music being played. For example, if you're playing heavy metal or hard rock, you may prefer a higher output level for more aggressive and distorted tones. Conversely, if you're playing jazz or blues, a lower output level may be preferable for a more nuanced and dynamic sound.
Ultimately, finding the ideal output level for your Les Paul's humbuckers is a matter of experimentation and personal taste. It's recommended to try out different pickup options and adjust the output level to find the best sound for your playing style and musical preferences.
Which humbuckers provide the best tone for a Les Paul?
When it comes to choosing the best humbuckers for a Les Paul, it ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific sound you are looking to achieve. However, there are several humbuckers that are commonly recommended by guitarists and experts in the industry.
The Gibson Burstbucker Pro is a popular choice for Les Pauls, as it provides a classic vintage sound with a modern twist. The Seymour Duncan SH-55 Seth Lover is another highly regarded humbucker for Les Pauls, known for its warm and articulate tone.
For those seeking a brighter and more aggressive sound, the DiMarzio Super Distortion and the EMG 81/85 pickup set are often recommended. The Bare Knuckle Mule is also a popular option for those looking for a more dynamic and responsive sound.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which humbuckers provide the best tone for your Les Paul is to try out different options and see which one suits your playing style and musical preferences.
