In phase, out of phase pickups
In Phase, Out of Phase Pickups: Understanding the Impact on Guitar Tone
Guitar pickups play a crucial role in shaping the tone of an electric guitar. Two important properties of pickups that significantly affect their sound when combined with others are phase and polarity. In this article, we will explore the concept of phase and polarity in pickups and how they impact the overall guitar tone.
Phase and Polarity: Explained
Phase and polarity are fundamental properties of guitar pickups that determine their electrical and magnetic characteristics. Phase refers to the direction of current flow through the pickup, while polarity refers to the direction of the magnetic field produced by the pickup.
When two single-coil pickups are in phase, it means that their electrical and magnetic properties align in a way that produces a coherent and balanced sound. In order for two pickups to be in phase, they must either have identical wind and polarity or opposite wind and polarity.
The Effects of Phase and Polarity
When two pickups are in phase and combined, they can produce a strong, full tone with enhanced sustain and hum cancellation. This is because the signals from the pickups reinforce each other, resulting in a louder and more robust output.
On the other hand, if two pickups are out of phase, they can cause hum or phase cancellation, resulting in a thin or hollow sound. Out-of-phase pickups exhibit destructive interference, where certain frequencies are canceled out when both pickups are engaged simultaneously.
Mis-matching single-coil pickups, such as wiring one of them backwards, can cause them to be out of phase with each other. This can lead to tonal issues and a loss of the desirable characteristics associated with in-phase pickups.
Humbuckers and Phase
Humbuckers, which are dual-coil pickups, are designed with opposite wind and opposite polarity to achieve a fat, meaty tone and eliminate hum. The reverse-wound, reverse-polarity configuration of humbuckers cancels out the hum caused by electromagnetic interference, resulting in a quieter and more focused sound.
Compatibility Issues and Mixing Pickups
Mixing and matching pickups from different manufacturers can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with wind and polarity. Each manufacturer may have their own standards and specifications for pickup construction, which can result in pickups being out of phase when combined.
To avoid potential phase issues, it is recommended to reach out to manufacturers and inquire about the coil wind, signal flow direction, and magnetic polarity of their pickups. This information can help determine if the pickups are compatible or if custom pickups need to be built to match the desired phase configuration.
Conclusion
Understanding the concepts of phase and polarity in guitar pickups is crucial for achieving the desired tone and avoiding tonal issues when combining multiple pickups. In-phase pickups produce a stronger and more balanced sound, while out-of-phase pickups can result in tonal anomalies and phase cancellation. By being aware of the phase characteristics of pickups and ensuring compatibility when mixing different pickups, guitarists can optimize their tone and create a harmonious sonic experience.
Sources:
- Seymour Duncan: “Pickup Polarity and Phase Made Simple” (https://www.seymourduncan.com/blog/latest-updates/pickup-polarity-and-phase-made-simple)
- Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange: “In phase, out of phase pickups” (https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/1354/in-phase-out-of-phase-pickups)
- Lollar Guitars: “Understanding Pickup Phase” (https://www.lollarguitars.com/understanding-pickup-phase)
FAQs
What is the difference between phase and polarity in guitar pickups?
Phase refers to the direction of current flow through the pickup, while polarity refers to the direction of the magnetic field produced by the pickup.
How can I determine if my pickups are in phase or out of phase?
You can determine the phase relationship between two pickups by listening to the combined sound when both pickups are engaged. If the sound is full, balanced, and free of hum, the pickups are likely in phase. If the sound is thin, hollow, or exhibits hum, the pickups may be out of phase.
Can pickups from different manufacturers be out of phase when combined?
Yes, pickups from different manufacturers can have different winding and polarity configurations, which can result in out-of-phase combinations when mixed. It is important to check the specifications and consult with the manufacturers to ensure compatibility.
Can I fix out-of-phase pickups?
In some cases, reversing the wiring or leads of one of the pickups can bring them back into phase. However, not all pickups have leads that can be easily flipped, and reversing the leads may not always resolve the issue. It’s best to consult with a professional technician or the pickup manufacturer for guidance.
Are all humbuckers in phase?
Humbuckers are typically designed to be in phase with each other. They are constructed with opposite wind and opposite polarity configurations, which cancels out hum and results in a fat, meaty tone. However, it’s always a good idea to consult the pickup manufacturer or reference the pickup’s specifications to confirm the phase relationship.
What are the tonal differences between in-phase and out-of-phase pickups?
In-phase pickups produce a stronger, fuller tone with enhanced sustain and hum cancellation. Out-of-phase pickups can cause phase cancellation and result in a thinner, hollower sound. They may also exhibit a “quacky” or nasal quality due to the canceled frequencies.
Can I mix single-coil and humbucker pickups in phase?
Yes, it is possible to mix single-coil and humbucker pickups in phase. However, it’s important to consider the electrical and tonal differences between the two types of pickups. Some adjustments and modifications may be necessary to achieve a balanced and coherent sound when combining different pickup types.
Is it common to experience volume differences when combining pickups in phase?
Yes, it is normal to experience slight volume differences when combining pickups in phase. This is because the output levels of the individual pickups may vary. However, significant volume differences could indicate wiring or setup issues that may require further investigation or adjustments.