What Are P90 Pickups? - And What Are They Good For? - Guitaristnextdoor.com (2024)

Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Justin Thomas

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Amidst the iconic riffs and soulful melodies of rock and blues legends lies a hidden gem: P90 pickups. Have you ever wondered what makes P90 pickups different from other guitar pickups? Their unique design spans the histories of hard rock, jazz, blues, and beyond.

Knowledge is vital in the realm of guitar pickups. Our aim is threefold:

• To inform you about the intriguing world and history of P90 pickups.
• To illuminate the distinct types of P90 pickups.
• To guide you through the expansive sonic landscapes available with P90s.

By the end of this exploration, you’ll be equipped with the insights needed to make informed decisions about incorporating P90 pickups into your musical arsenal.

Let’s dive into the magnetic wonders of the P90s and uncover their versatile prowess.

Check our picks for the best guitars with P90s here.

P90 Pickups Summary

What are P90 pickups?

P90s are single-coil electric guitar pickups. They feature a distinctive warm and fat sound. They were first developed by Gibson Guitars in the late 1940s. They feature a wider coil design than traditional single-coil pickups, resulting in a thicker and grittier tone often associated with rock, blues, and jazz music. P90s are often considered a middle ground between traditional single-coil and humbucker pickups.

Check a head to head comparison of P90 vs humbucker pickups here.

Main Characteristics in a Glance

• Shape: Rectangular soapbar.
• Size: Wider bobbins, larger pole pieces.
• Sound: Warmth, bite, and versatility.
• History: Originally designed in the late 1940s.

P90 Pickups Ultimate Guide

P90 pickups, with their rich history and distinctive design, inhabit a unique niche of guitar tone. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn the intricate facets of P90 pickups including their:

• Shape and size.
• Materials and construction.
• Sound and tone.

Shape and Size

P90 pickups are characterized by:

• Rectangular Soapbar Shape: A departure from the standard single-coil or humbucker appearance, P90s boast a charming rectangular soapbar design that adds a vintage aesthetic to your guitar.

• Wider Bobbin, Larger Pole Pieces: P90s embrace a broader form, accommodating larger pole pieces that contribute to their unique tonal character.

Comparative Dimensions and Weight:

In contrast to their single-coil and humbucker cousins, P90 pickups carve a distinctive silhouette with their wider body and slightly more prominent profile. While specific dimensions may vary, P90 pickups are generally a middle-ground size between traditional single-coils and humbuckers.

The weight of P90 pickups, although influenced by materials, typically falls within a range that balances tonal projection and physical comfort.

Variations to Explore:

• Dogear Style: An iconic variant, the dogear P90 is celebrated for its protruding corners. It offers a subtle change in tonal response and visual allure.

• Humbucker-Sized P90s: For those seeking the P90 essence in a humbucker route, humbucker-sized P90 pickups provide a seamless fit, delivering P90 character with humbucker convenience.

• Mini P90s: Capturing the charm of P90s in a more compact form, mini P90 pickups open doors to tonal experimentation on guitars with limited space.

Materials and Construction

Crafting P90 pickups involves a meticulous fusion of components and craftsmanship.

• Single Coil, Double Magnet Magic: At the core of P90 pickups lies a single coil of wire, precisely wound to capture the vibrations of your guitar strings.
• Two Bar Magnets: Beneath the coil, two bar magnets play a pivotal role in shaping the magnetic field that translates string movement into electrical signals.
• Magnetic Field Creation: The interaction between the coil and magnets forms a magnetic field, amplifying and translating the strings’ vibrations into an electric signal.

Influence of Materials, Magnets, and Windings

The materials used in P90 pickups – from the wire to the magnets – contribute to their unique sonic identity. Alnico magnets, for instance, can add warmth and character, while ceramic magnets emphasize clarity and output.

The number of windings around the coil affects output and tone. More windings often produce a hotter, thicker sound, while fewer windings yield a more precise, crisper tone.

Mounting and Connections

P90 pickups are typically mounted directly onto the guitar body. This allows them to capture vibrations and resonance more effectively.

Wiring connections link P90 pickups to the guitar’s controls, enabling you to shape your tone with volume and tone knobs or switch between pickups.

Sound and Tone – What Do P90 Pickups Sound Like?

P90 pickups breathe life into your playing with their distinctive tonal palette.

• Warmth and Richness: P90 pickups are renowned for their warm and rich tones, offering a harmonic complexity that adds depth to your playing.
• Comparison with Single-Coils and Humbuckers: Positioned between the bright clarity of single-coil pickups and the muscular output of humbuckers, P90s carve a tonal path that resonates with those seeking versatility.
• Suitable Genres and Styles: The adaptability of P90 pickups invites a wide range of musical genres. From the soulful melodies of jazz to the gritty aggression of hard rock, P90s add a touch of character that complements your musical expression.

Check how P90s sound on different guitars (you can find sound comparisons of different pickups by scrolling down):

Pros and Cons of P90 Pickups

P90 pickups are a testament to sonic versatility, enriching your playing with a dynamic and expressive range that traverses musical genres. However, like any aspect of music gear, P90s come with advantages and limitations.

Let’s explore the pros and cons that accompany the magnetic allure of P90 pickups.

Pros of P90 Pickups

• Versatility: P90s effortlessly embrace diverse musical genres, from soulful blues to raucous hard rock.
• Dynamics: The unique combination of warmth and bite ensures an expressive, dynamic range, responding precisely to your playing nuances.
• Expressiveness: P90 pickups allow you to convey more subtlety in your playing.
• Vintage Vibe: P90s exude a classic, vintage aura that harkens back to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll, adding a touch of nostalgia to your sound.

Cons of P90 Pickups

• Susceptibility to Hum and Noise: One drawback of P90s is their susceptibility to unwanted hum and noise, particularly in high-gain settings. This can sometimes limit their usage in particular studio or live scenarios.
• Feedback Issues: P90 pickups’ inherent sensitivity can occasionally lead to feedback issues, especially when exposed to high volumes or close proximity to amplifiers.
• Compatibility Concerns: Retrofitting P90s into guitars designed for different pickup types may require modifications.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

P90 pickups are a gateway to sonic exploration, offering versatility, dynamics, and expressiveness. Their vintage charm adds a layer of authenticity to your music, inviting you to journey through the sounds of eras past.

However, the susceptibility to hum, noise, feedback, and potential compatibility issues should be considered when integrating P90s into your musical arsenal. By understanding the advantages and limitations that P90 pickups bring, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your musical aspirations and playing style.

How about P90s vs Humbuckers? What is best for your tone?

P90 Pickups in Different Musical Genres

P90 pickups’ sonic versatility finds a natural home in various musical landscapes. Their unique blend of warmth and bite makes them a favored choice for various playing styles, adding a distinctive character to each.

Let’s explore how P90 pickups are harnessed in different musical genres, with examples of songs, albums, and artists showcasing their sonic prowess.

• Blues: P90 pickups infuse blues with soulful expression, capturing the heart-wrenching vibrato of blues players.
• Rock: P90s lend rock anthems a gritty edge, epitomized by The Who’s “My Generation” performed live at Leeds. Pete Townshend’s raw power and aggressive strumming showcase the P90’s capacity to fuel rock ‘n’ roll fire.
• Jazz: In jazz, P90s craft smooth tones that dance with sophistication.
• Hard Rock: Black Sabbath’s iconic “Paranoid” demonstrates P90s’ prowess in hard-hitting rock or metal, delivering searing leads and chunky chords.
• Country: P90 pickups add twang to country music.
• Punk: P90s unleash punk’s rebellious energy, exemplified by the likes of Green Day’s frontman, Billie Joe Armstrong. Check this P90 live performance of “American Idiot,” for example.

Choosing the Right P90 Pickup

Selecting the ideal P90 pickup is a journey guided by a blend of considerations, personal preferences, and practical needs. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or a newcomer to the instrument, the quest for the perfect P90 is a rewarding exploration.

Let’s delve into the key factors that resonate with your playing style and musical aspirations.

Skill Levels, Preferences, and Budgets: Tailoring the Choice

• Beginners: For novice guitarists, a well-rounded P90 pickup that balances warmth and clarity is an excellent starting point. This ensures versatility and a seamless transition as your playing evolves.
• Intermediate Players: As your skills advance, consider P90s with enhanced tonal character, allowing you to experiment with a broader sonic palette that matches your evolving technique.
• Experienced Musicians: Seasoned players might opt for P90s with unique tonal profiles, catering to specific genres or creative visions.

Recommendations and Selection Tips: Navigating the Options

• Sound Exploration: Listen to sound demos and performances by artists whose styles align with your musical interests. This aids in identifying P90 pickups that capture the tones you envision.
• Wire Gauge and Winding: Pay attention to wire gauge and winding techniques, as these impact the pickup’s output and character.
• Magnet Types: Different magnets, such as Alnico II, III, or V impart distinct tonal qualities. Consider the magnet type that resonates with your desired sound.

When to Choose or Avoid P90s: Practical Scenarios

• Preferred Scenarios: P90 pickups thrive in genres like blues, rock, and jazz, offering the clarity and bite needed for expressive playing. If you seek a vintage-inspired vibe or tonal versatility, P90s are an excellent choice.
• Unfavorable Scenarios: P90s might not be suitable if you require complete hum cancellation for high-gain scenarios or prefer the pristine clarity of normal single-coils for clean tones.

Famous Guitarists and Iconic Guitars with P90 Pickups

Many renowned guitarists forged their musical tales using these magnetic wonders. From searing solos to soul-stirring melodies, P90s have graced the hands of legendary artists, shaping the soundtrack of rock ‘n’ roll history.

Let’s check out some of the notable guitarists and iconic guitars that have embraced the sonic allure of P90 pickups.

Guitarists Who Harness P90 Power:

• Carlos Santana: The Latin rock maestro infuses his melodic lines with the captivating warmth of P90 pickups, adding a distinctive touch to his soulful solos.
• Pete Townshend: The driving force behind The Who, Townshend’s aggressive strumming and power chords come alive with the raw energy of P90 pickups, exemplified in classics like “My Generation.”
• Tony Iommi: The iconic Black Sabbath guitarist wields P90 pickups to conjure the signature riffs that forged the foundations of heavy metal, crafting a dark and powerful sonic tapestry.
• Billie Joe Armstrong: Green Day’s frontman relies on P90 pickups to fuel his punk-driven anthems, adding a gritty edge to his high-octane chords and melodic hooks.

Iconic Guitars That Embrace P90 Magic:

• Gibson Les Paul Junior: The Les Paul Junior, often associated with simplicity and raw power, boasts P90 pickups that deliver a stripped-down, punchy tone favored by artists seeking a no-frills sound.

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• Gibson SG Special: The SG Special, wielded by rock and blues legends alike, features P90 pickups that contribute to its biting, aggressive character.

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• Epiphone Casino: This hollow-body gem, famously utilized by The Beatles, boasts P90 pickups that enhance its jangly and resonant sound, perfect for genres like rock and pop.

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Signature Guitars with P90 Pickups:

• Gibson Chuck Berry 1955 ES-350T
• Gibson Mike Ness 1976 Les Paul Deluxe (Aged)
• Gibson Brian Ray ’62 SG Junior
• Epiphone Billie Joe Armstrong Les Paul Junior
• Epiphone Tony Iommi SG Special

Which Guitar Brands Use P90 Pickups?

P90 pickups have found a cherished home within various guitar brands, each infusing their instruments with the distinctive tonal character that P90s deliver. Whether you’re seeking a classic vintage vibe or a modern twist on this iconic sound, many contemporary guitar brands have embraced the magnetic allure of P90 pickups.

• Gibson: Renowned for their historic Les Paul models, Gibson features P90 pickups in several variations, such as the Les Paul Junior and Les Paul Special.
• Epiphone: Gibson’s sister brand, Epiphone, offers a range of guitars with P90 pickups, including models like the Casino and Les Paul Junior.
• Fender: While Fender is often associated with single-coil pickups, they’ve introduced models like the Fender Mustang and Fender Jazzmaster with P90s, blending their signature design with a new sonic palette.
• Reverend Guitars: Reverend’s innovative designs often incorporate P90 pickups, offering players a fresh take on the classic sound.
• Yamaha: Yamaha’s Pacifica series includes models with P90 pickups, catering to players seeking tonal versatility.
• Duesenberg: Duesenberg’s Starplayer TV and Starplayer Special models showcase the marriage of P90 pickups with their unique semi-hollow designs.
• Eastwood Guitars: Known for their vintage-inspired designs, Eastwood Guitars offers models like the Sidejack DLX with P90 pickups, capturing the essence of classic tones.
• Godin Guitars: Godin’s Summit Classic P90 model infuses their quality craftsmanship with the rich tonal character of P90 pickups.
• Heritage Guitars: Heritage’s H-137 model pays homage to the iconic ES-137, incorporating P90 pickups to blend vintage and modern tones.

Popular P90 Pickup Models

Many popular models of P90 pickups deliver exceptional sonic qualities and versatility. Whether you’re seeking vintage authenticity, modern innovation, or a unique tonal twist, these popular P90 pickup models offer various options to cater to your musical preferences.

• Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P90: Known for its harmonically rich tones, this model combines the sparkle of a single-coil with the bite of a P90, offering a balanced sonic experience

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• Lollar P90: Renowned for its smooth highs and well-defined lows, the Lollar P-90 captures the essence of classic P90 tones, adding depth to your playing.

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• Bare Knuckle Mississippi Queen: This pickup boasts a hot vintage output, delivering punch and clarity, making it a favorite for rock and blues players.
• Fralin P90: Loved for its articulate response and dynamic range, the Fralin P-90 offers a versatile palette that adapts to various playing styles.

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• Wolfetone Meaner P90: True to its name, this model brings aggression and bite to your sound, making it ideal for rock and hard-hitting genres.
• Creamery Vintage ’71 P90: Embracing the warmth of vintage P90s, this pickup model adds character and depth to your playing, reminiscent of classic rock tones.
• Kent Armstrong Stealth P90: Characterized by its balanced output and smooth response, the Stealth P90 offers a modern take on the classic P90 sound.
• TV Jones P90: Infused with TV Jones’ signature flair, this model combines the iconic P90 growl with unique design elements, creating a distinct tonal identity.
• Sheptone Heartbreaker P90: Offering a blend of vintage warmth and modern clarity, the Heartbreaker P90 adds a touch of elegance to your sound.
• Tonerider Rebel 90: Known for its versatile tonal range, the Rebel 90 delivers both vintage charm and a contemporary edge, catering to various genres.

P90s vs. Regular Single-coil Pickups

Comparing P90s and regular single-coil pickups is a topic of continuous exploration. These two distinct pickup types each contribute a unique tonal palette to the guitarist’s toolkit.

Let’s explore the differences and similarities between P90s and regular single-coil pickups.

Main Differences Between P90 and Single-coil Pickups

• Design and Construction: P90 pickups are single-coil designs. However, their larger and wider coil contribute to a tonal balance between regular single-coils and humbuckers.
• Tone and Character: P90s offer a blend of warmth and bite, sitting between the unmistakable sound of regular single-coils and the fuller output of humbuckers.
• Output and Power: P90s often have a higher output than traditional single-coils, resulting in a more muscular and thicker sound.
• Noise and Hum: Regular single-coil pickups can be prone to hum due to their single-coil nature, whereas P90s may have slightly more noise rejection due to their larger coil.

Main Similarities Between P90 and Single-coil Pickups

• Single-Coil Heritage: P90s and regular single-coil pickups are rooted in the single-coil design, resulting in bright, clear tones.
• Articulation: Both pickups offer excellent string-to-string articulation, making them ideal for intricate playing styles.
• Versatility: P90s and regular single-coils are versatile and can be found in various musical genres, from blues to rock to jazz.

YouTube Sound Comparison:

To truly appreciate the sonic contrast between P90s and regular single-coil pickups, we recommend exploring YouTube sound comparison videos. These videos often feature side-by-side recordings of the two pickup types, allowing you to hear the differences in attack, sustain, harmonics, and overall tonal character.

Here’s a YouTube video that compares the sound of P90s and single coils:

P90s vs. Humbucker Pickups

The perennial debate between P90 pickups and humbucker pickups is a cornerstone of guitar discussions, shaped by the distinct tonal profiles each brings to the table. Let’s delve into the primary differences and shared characteristics between these two iconic pickup types, and then we’ll point you towards a YouTube sound comparison for an auditory exploration of their sonic diversity.

Main Differences Between P90 and Humbucker Pickups

• Coil Configuration: P90 pickups are single-coil designs, while humbuckers consist of two coils wound in opposite directions, resulting in noise cancellation and a thicker sound.
• Tonal Character: P90s offer a balanced blend of warmth and bite, while humbuckers emphasize power and fullness, making them ideal for high-gain and heavy genres.
• Output and Dynamics: Humbuckers generally have higher output and offer a compressed, saturated sound, whereas P90s retain more dynamic responsiveness.
• Noise Rejection: Due to their dual-coil design, humbuckers excel in rejecting external noise and hum, offering cleaner tones in high-gain scenarios.

Main Similarities Between P90s and Humbucker Pickups

• Midrange Focus: Both P90s and humbuckers tend to emphasize midrange frequencies, contributing to a rich and full-bodied tone.
• Sustain: Humbuckers and P90s often offer longer sustain compared to regular single-coil pickups, allowing notes to ring out more prominently.
• Tonewood Influence: Both pickups are sensitive to the tonewood of the guitar, resulting in variations in resonance and harmonics.

YouTube Sound Comparison:

Here a Youtube video that compares the sound of P90s and humbuckers:

Brief History of P90 Pickups

The story of P90 pickups dates back to the mid-20th century, a time of vigorous experimentation and sonic exploration in electric guitars. Developed by Gibson Guitars, the P90 pickup represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of electric guitar sound.

Invention and Introduction

The P90 pickup debuted in the late 1940s, specifically around 1946. Created by Gibson’s innovators, the P90 addressed the tonal limitations of existing single-coil pickups. The P90’s design combined elements of traditional single-coils and emerging humbuckers, resulting in a pickup that bridged the tonal gap between the two.

Early Adoption and Impact

As electric guitars gained popularity in various genres, the P90 pickup found its way into a range of Gibson models, including the ES-330 and Les Paul Junior. Its distinctive tone, characterized by a balance of warmth and bite, appealed to players seeking versatile soundscapes. The P90’s popularity soared, making it a staple choice for guitarists across genres like blues, old-school metal, and jazz.

Evolution and Endurance

Over the decades, the P90 pickup evolved in response to changing musical landscapes. Its adaptable nature allowed it to find its place in diverse styles, from the gritty distortion of early rock to the soulful melodies of jazz. While other pickup designs emerged, the P90 maintained its presence. It was cherished for its unique tonal signature and ability to cut through the mix with character.

Contemporary Revival

In recent years, the resurgence of interest in vintage tones and retro aesthetics has led to a renewed appreciation for P90 pickups. Modern guitarists seek the P90’s distinctive voice to add color and dimension to their playing, with established artists and newcomers harnessing its sonic potential across various musical genres.

Conclusion

P90s stand as a captivating bridge between tradition and innovation. Their unique blend of warmth, clarity, and bite creates a tonal palette that resonates with musicians seeking sonic authenticity and versatility.

Throughout this journey, we’ve unveiled the history, characteristics, and applications of P90 pickups. As you embark on your own sonic odyssey, consider the diverse genres that P90s can enrich, from soulful jazz to gritty punk.

The decision to embrace P90 pickups becomes a symphony of choice and creativity. Delve into YouTube sound comparisons, listen intently to their distinct voice, and let your ears guide your path. Ultimately, your guitar becomes the vessel for your musical expression, and P90 pickups are the catalyst for unlocking new realms of sound.

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