Filtertron pickups have been a staple in the music industry for decades, known for their unique tone and versatility. These pickups have been used by numerous legendary guitarists, including Chet Atkins, Merle Travis, and Brian Setzer. One of the most common questions asked by guitar enthusiasts is, “What size are Filtertron pickups?” In this article, we will delve into the world of Filtertron pickups, exploring their history, design, and specifications, including their size.
A Brief History of Filtertron Pickups
Filtertron pickups were first introduced in the 1950s by Gretsch, a renowned guitar manufacturer. The company’s goal was to create a pickup that could produce a warm, balanced tone with minimal hum and noise. The Filtertron pickup was designed to achieve this goal, featuring a unique design that utilized a combination of magnets and a metal cover to reduce hum and noise.
The Design of Filtertron Pickups
Filtertron pickups are known for their distinctive design, which features a metal cover with a series of holes drilled into it. This design allows the pickup to capture a wide range of frequencies, producing a warm and balanced tone. The metal cover also helps to reduce hum and noise, making the pickup ideal for use in a variety of musical settings.
Key Components of Filtertron Pickups
Filtertron pickups consist of several key components, including:
- Magnets: Filtertron pickups use a combination of magnets to capture the vibrations of the strings. The magnets are typically made of Alnico, a type of magnetic alloy that is known for its warm and balanced tone.
- Coil: The coil is the wire that is wrapped around the magnets to capture the vibrations of the strings. The coil is typically made of copper wire and is designed to produce a specific tone and output level.
- Base Plate: The base plate is the metal plate that the magnets and coil are attached to. The base plate helps to support the pickup and provides a stable platform for the magnets and coil.
- Cover: The cover is the metal cover that is placed over the pickup to reduce hum and noise. The cover is typically made of a metal alloy and is designed to provide a specific tone and aesthetic.
The Size of Filtertron Pickups
Filtertron pickups come in a variety of sizes, depending on the specific model and application. The most common sizes for Filtertron pickups are:
- Standard Size: The standard size for Filtertron pickups is approximately 3.5 inches (89mm) in length and 1.5 inches (38mm) in width.
- Mini Size: The mini size for Filtertron pickups is approximately 2.5 inches (64mm) in length and 1.25 inches (32mm) in width.
- Custom Sizes: Some manufacturers offer custom sizes for Filtertron pickups, which can be designed to fit specific guitars or applications.
Mounting Options for Filtertron Pickups
Filtertron pickups can be mounted in a variety of ways, depending on the specific guitar and application. The most common mounting options for Filtertron pickups are:
- Standard Mount: The standard mount for Filtertron pickups is a screw-in mount that attaches to the guitar’s body.
- <strong-Tooth Mount: The tooth mount for Filtertron pickups is a type of mount that attaches to the guitar’s pickguard.
- <strong-Clip Mount: The clip mount for Filtertron pickups is a type of mount that attaches to the guitar’s body using a clip.
Installation Tips for Filtertron Pickups
Installing Filtertron pickups can be a straightforward process, but it does require some care and attention to detail. Here are some tips for installing Filtertron pickups:
- Use the correct mounting hardware: Make sure to use the correct mounting hardware for your specific guitar and pickup.
- <strong-Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the pickup.
- <strong-Use a soldering iron: Use a soldering iron to connect the pickup to the guitar’s electronics.
Specifications for Filtertron Pickups
Filtertron pickups have a number of specifications that can affect their tone and performance. Here are some of the key specifications for Filtertron pickups:
- DC Resistance: The DC resistance of a Filtertron pickup is typically around 10-15k ohms.
- <strong-Inductance: The inductance of a Filtertron pickup is typically around 2-3 henries.
- <strong-Magnet Type: Filtertron pickups typically use Alnico magnets, which are known for their warm and balanced tone.
- <strong-Coil Wire: The coil wire used in Filtertron pickups is typically made of copper and is designed to produce a specific tone and output level.
Tone and Performance of Filtertron Pickups
Filtertron pickups are known for their warm and balanced tone, which makes them ideal for a variety of musical settings. The tone of a Filtertron pickup is affected by a number of factors, including the type of magnets used, the coil wire, and the pickup’s design.
Comparison to Other Pickups
Filtertron pickups are often compared to other types of pickups, such as humbuckers and single-coils. Here is a comparison of Filtertron pickups to other types of pickups:
| Pickup Type | Tone | Noise Level |
| — | — | — |
| Filtertron | Warm and balanced | Low |
| Humbucker | Full and rich | Low |
| Single-Coil | Bright and snappy | High |
Conclusion
Filtertron pickups are a unique and versatile type of pickup that can add a warm and balanced tone to any guitar. With their distinctive design and specifications, Filtertron pickups are ideal for a variety of musical settings. Whether you’re a professional musician or a hobbyist, Filtertron pickups are definitely worth considering.
What are Filtertron pickups and how do they differ from other types of pickups?
Filtertron pickups are a type of electric guitar pickup designed by Ray Butts in the 1950s. They are known for their unique design, which features a metal cover and a pair of Alnico magnets. This design gives Filtertron pickups a distinct tone that is often described as warm and balanced, with a strong midrange presence. One of the key differences between Filtertron pickups and other types of pickups is their use of a metal cover, which helps to reduce hum and noise.
In comparison to other types of pickups, Filtertron pickups have a more focused and articulate sound. They are often used in jazz and rockabilly music, where a clear and balanced tone is desired. Filtertron pickups are also known for their versatility, and can be used in a variety of musical styles. They are a popular choice among guitar players who are looking for a pickup that can deliver a wide range of tonal possibilities.
What are the standard size and specifications of Filtertron pickups?
The standard size of Filtertron pickups is 2.75 inches (7 cm) in length, 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) in width, and 0.75 inches (1.9 cm) in height. They typically have a DC resistance of around 4-6 kΩ and an inductance of around 2-3 H. The magnets used in Filtertron pickups are usually Alnico 5, which provides a strong and balanced magnetic field. The metal cover is usually made of nickel silver or brass, which helps to reduce hum and noise.
It’s worth noting that there can be some variation in the size and specifications of Filtertron pickups, depending on the manufacturer and the specific model. Some Filtertron pickups may have slightly different dimensions or specifications, but the standard size and specs listed above are generally accepted as the norm. Guitar players who are looking to install Filtertron pickups in their instrument should make sure to check the specifications of the pickups they are using to ensure proper fit and function.
How do Filtertron pickups compare to other types of pickups in terms of tone?
Filtertron pickups are known for their warm and balanced tone, which is often described as being similar to a P-90 pickup but with a bit more clarity and articulation. They have a strong midrange presence and a smooth, rounded high-end response. In comparison to other types of pickups, Filtertron pickups tend to have a more focused and articulate sound, with a bit less brightness and twang than a single-coil pickup.
One of the key tonal characteristics of Filtertron pickups is their ability to deliver a wide range of tonal possibilities. They can produce a warm and mellow sound when played clean, and can also deliver a bright and snappy sound when played with overdrive or distortion. Filtertron pickups are also known for their ability to handle a wide range of musical styles, from jazz and rockabilly to rock and blues.
Can Filtertron pickups be used in any type of guitar?
Filtertron pickups can be used in a variety of guitars, but they are typically associated with hollowbody and semi-hollowbody instruments. They are a popular choice among jazz and rockabilly players, who often use them in guitars such as the Gretsch 6120 and the Gibson ES-335. Filtertron pickups can also be used in solidbody guitars, but they may require some modifications to the instrument’s electronics and body.
In general, Filtertron pickups are a good choice for any guitar player who is looking for a warm and balanced tone with a strong midrange presence. They are particularly well-suited to players who use a lot of chordal work and rhythm playing in their music, as they can deliver a clear and articulate sound that cuts through a mix. However, they may not be the best choice for players who are looking for a bright and twangy sound, as they tend to have a smoother and more rounded high-end response.
How do I install Filtertron pickups in my guitar?
Installing Filtertron pickups in a guitar can be a bit more involved than installing other types of pickups, due to their unique design and specifications. The first step is to make sure that the pickups are compatible with the guitar’s electronics and body. This may involve modifying the instrument’s wiring and electronics, as well as making sure that the pickups fit properly in the body.
Once the pickups are installed, they will need to be adjusted and set up properly. This involves adjusting the height and angle of the pickups, as well as setting the proper output level and tone. It’s a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions and seek the advice of a professional guitar technician if you are unsure about how to install and set up Filtertron pickups in your guitar.
Can I use Filtertron pickups in a guitar that already has other types of pickups?
Yes, it is possible to use Filtertron pickups in a guitar that already has other types of pickups. However, this may require some modifications to the instrument’s electronics and wiring. Filtertron pickups have a unique design and specifications, and they may not be compatible with the guitar’s existing electronics and pickups.
In general, it’s best to use Filtertron pickups in a guitar that is specifically designed for them, or to replace the existing pickups with a set of Filtertron pickups. This will ensure that the pickups are properly matched to the guitar’s electronics and body, and that they deliver the best possible tone. However, if you are looking to add a Filtertron pickup to a guitar that already has other types of pickups, it’s worth consulting the manufacturer’s instructions and seeking the advice of a professional guitar technician.
Are Filtertron pickups suitable for all musical styles?
Filtertron pickups are a versatile pickup that can be used in a wide range of musical styles. They are particularly well-suited to jazz and rockabilly music, where a warm and balanced tone is desired. However, they can also be used in other styles of music, such as rock, blues, and country.
One of the key advantages of Filtertron pickups is their ability to deliver a wide range of tonal possibilities. They can produce a warm and mellow sound when played clean, and can also deliver a bright and snappy sound when played with overdrive or distortion. This makes them a good choice for guitar players who need to play a variety of musical styles, or who are looking for a pickup that can deliver a wide range of tonal possibilities.