What is a P90 Pickup?
The P90 pickup is a unique and iconic design in the world of guitar electronics. Developed by Seymour Duncan, a renowned luthier and pickup designer, in the 1960s, the P90 is a single-coil pickup that offers a distinct sound and character. In this article, we will delve into the world of P90 pickups, exploring their design, characteristics, and advantages.
Design and Construction
The P90 pickup is a single-coil design, consisting of a magnet, coils, and a bobbin. The most distinctive feature of the P90 is its wide, flat coil configuration, which sets it apart from traditional single-coil pickups. This unique design allows for a fuller and more aggressive tone, with a stronger midrange and a more defined high-end.
Here’s a breakdown of the P90’s design:
• Bobbin: The P90’s bobbin is designed to accommodate the wide coil configuration, providing a sturdy foundation for the pickup.
• Coils: The coils are wound in a specific pattern to achieve the desired tone and resonance.
• Magnet: A ceramic or Alnico magnet is used to energize the coils and generate the pickup’s tone.
• Winding: The coils are wound with copper wire, and the insulation is typically made of polyester or Formvar.
Characteristics
The P90 pickup is known for its bright, crisp, and articulate tone, with a strong midrange and a sharp high-end. Here are some of its key characteristics:
• Treble response: The P90 has a strong treble response, making it well-suited for jazz, blues, and rock music.
• Midrange presence: The pickup’s midrange is prominent, adding depth and warmth to the tone.
• Bass response: The P90 has a balanced bass response, providing a solid foundation for the tone.
• Sustain: The pickup’s design allows for excellent sustain, with a long decay time.
Advantages
The P90 pickup offers several advantages over traditional single-coil pickups:
• Warmth: The P90’s wide coil configuration produces a warmer and more nuanced tone.
• Reduced hum: The unique design helps to reduce hum and noise, making it suitable for recording and live performances.
• Attack: The pickup’s design provides a quick attack, making it well-suited for fast-paced and complex playing styles.
• Flexibility: The P90 can be used in a variety of musical styles, from jazz to rock to metal.
Table: P90 Pickup Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Single-Coil | P90 |
|---|---|---|
| Coil Configuration | Tight, cylindrical coil | Wide, flat coil |
| Tone | Bright, harsh, and tinny | Warm, balanced, and articulate |
| Hum | More prone to hum and noise | Reduced hum and noise |
| Attack | Slower attack | Quick attack |
| Musical Style | Suitable for jazz, country, and classical | Suitable for rock, blues, and metal |
Installations and Recommendations
P90 pickups are commonly installed in electric guitars, and they can be used as a single pickup or in combination with other pickups. Here are some recommendations:
• Installation: Install the P90 in the bridge position for a bright and aggressive tone, or in the neck position for a warmer and more nuanced tone.
• Cable: Use a high-quality cable with a sturdy connector to ensure a strong signal and minimal noise.
• Tone control: Adjust the tone control to balance the midrange and treble response to suit your playing style and musical genre.
Conclusion
The P90 pickup is a unique and versatile design that offers a distinct sound and character. With its bright, crisp, and articulate tone, it is suitable for a variety of musical styles. By understanding its design, characteristics, and advantages, guitarists can make informed decisions when selecting and installing P90 pickups. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, a rockstar, or a metal musician, the P90 is an excellent choice for your next guitar project.
