You’re jamming with the band, laying down a heavy riff on your humbucker-equipped guitar. Suddenly, the song calls for a brighter, snappier tone β something with a little more single-coil bite. Switching guitars mid-song is a hassle, and fumbling with pedals breaks the flow. If only you could instantly transform your thick humbucker sound into a sparkling single-coil shimmer with the flick of a switch! That’s where coil splitting comes in, and finding the right pickup is key to getting that perfect blend of power and versatility.
Choosing the right pickup can feel overwhelming, with so many options promising incredible tones. You want that classic humbucker punch when you need it, but also a convincing single-coil sound that doesn’t sound thin or weak when split. This guide is here to help you navigate the world of guitar pickups and find the best coil split humbuckers for your playing style and guitar. We’ll break down the top contenders, highlighting their unique characteristics and helping you make an informed decision.
Before we jump into the best coil split humbuckers review, let’s take a look at these Amazon products:
Last update on 2025-09-10 / Affiliate links / #CommissionsEarned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Unlocking Hidden Tones: A Journey into Coil Splitting
Ever been playing your guitar and thought, “Man, I wish I had a single-coil sound right now”? Humbuckers are great for thick, powerful tones, but sometimes you crave that bright, snappy bite of a single-coil pickup. Thatβs where coil splitting comes in. It’s like having two guitars in one, and it’s surprisingly simple once you understand the basics. It involves essentially turning off one of the coils in your humbucker, giving you a brighter, less powerful sound thatβs more akin to a Strat or Tele.
Think of it as unlocking a secret compartment in your guitar’s tonal toolbox. Instead of having to switch guitars entirely, you can instantly access a whole new range of sounds, perfect for different styles of music or even just different parts of a song. In fact, according to a recent survey of guitar players, 65% stated that they have coil splitting capabilities in at least one of their guitars and appreciate the added versatility. This popularity has led to a surge in aftermarket options and even more guitars being factory equipped with coil split functionality.
Finding the right humbucker for coil splitting is crucial. Not all humbuckers are created equal, and some coil split better than others. Factors like the humbucker’s internal wiring, the type of magnet used, and even the overall output level can affect the end result. Youβre looking for a pickup that sounds good as a humbucker, of course, but also retains some clarity and articulation when split.
So, join us on this quest to find the best coil split humbuckers! We’ll explore what makes a humbucker ideal for coil splitting, review some top contenders, and help you find the perfect pickup to expand your sonic horizons. We’ll consider models across a range of price points and output levels, ensuring there’s something for everyone looking to experience the magic of coil splitting.
5 Best Coil Split Humbuckers
Seymour Duncan JB Model (SH-4)
The Seymour Duncan JB Model is a classic for a reason. In humbucker mode, it delivers a hot, aggressive tone perfect for rock, blues, and even metal. Think searing leads and chunky rhythm playing that cuts through any mix. It’s got that unmistakable Duncan bite and responsiveness that makes it a favorite among guitarists of all styles. But the real magic happens when you split the coils.
In single-coil mode, the JB transforms into a bright, articulate pickup that’s ideal for funk, country, or those sparkling clean tones. You’ll find it has a snappy attack and a clear, defined sound thatβs far from thin or weak. It’s almost like having two guitars in one, making it an incredibly versatile choice for players who need a wide range of sounds.
DiMarzio Super Distortion (DP100)
The DiMarzio Super Distortion. The name says it all, doesn’t it? This pickup is renowned for its high output and powerful, saturated tone. When you’re looking for a humbucker that can push your amp into overdrive with ease, the Super Distortion is a go-to. It’s perfect for hard rock, metal, and any genre that demands raw power and sustain.
But don’t think this pickup is just a one-trick pony. Split the coils, and you’ll unlock a surprisingly usable single-coil tone. It’s not as pristine as some dedicated single-coils, but it has a nice, slightly gritty character that works well for bluesy licks and rhythm work. It offers a nice contrast to the full-throttle humbucker sound, expanding your tonal palette.
Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates (SH-PG1)
The Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates offers a taste of vintage Texas blues-rock in a humbucker package. It’s known for its sweet, slightly compressed tone with a hint of warmth. Think of those classic ZZ Top tones β that’s the ballpark you’re playing in. It’s a fantastic choice for players who want a humbucker with character and a bit of an edge, but not an overwhelming amount of gain.
When you split the coils of the Pearly Gates, you’re rewarded with a sweet, articulate single-coil tone that’s perfect for clean rhythm playing or adding a bit of sparkle to your lead lines. It still retains some of that Texas mojo, giving it a unique flavor that sets it apart from other split-coil options. It’s a great choice for players who appreciate a more nuanced and vintage-inspired sound.
Bare Knuckle Pickups Black Dog
The Bare Knuckle Pickups Black Dog is a versatile option. It strikes a balance between vintage warmth and modern aggression. It’s not as overtly hot as some other high-output humbuckers, but it still packs plenty of punch when you need it. Itβs a great choice for players who want a pickup that can handle a variety of genres, from blues and rock to heavier styles.
Splitting the Black Dog reveals a clear and articulate single-coil tone that’s surprisingly well-balanced. It’s not overly bright or thin, and it has a nice, percussive attack that works well for funk, country, or clean rhythm playing. Itβs a great option for guitarists who want a versatile pickup that can handle a wide range of musical styles and tonal requirements without sacrificing quality in either humbucker or single-coil mode.
Lollar Imperial Humbucker
The Lollar Imperial Humbucker is all about vintage-inspired tone with exceptional clarity and articulation. It’s designed to capture the sound of those coveted PAF humbuckers from the late 1950s. The Imperial is a fantastic choice for players who appreciate a classic rock or blues sound with plenty of warmth and detail. Itβs known for its balanced frequency response and its ability to clean up beautifully when you roll back the volume.
But the real surprise comes when you split the coils. The Imperial transforms into a glassy, chime-like single-coil that’s perfect for clean rhythm playing or adding a bit of sparkle to your lead lines. It retains a vintage vibe, but with enhanced clarity and articulation. It’s a truly exceptional split-coil tone that rivals many dedicated single-coil pickups.
Why Buy Coil Split Humbuckers?
Ever been stuck in a sonic rut? Picture this: you’re jamming with friends, and the song calls for a bright, jangly tone, but all you’ve got is the thick, powerful sound of your humbuckers. You’re either reaching for another guitar or compromising your sound. That’s where coil split humbuckers come in. These clever pickups offer the best of both worlds, delivering the full-bodied roar you expect from a humbucker but with the option to tap into a single-coil tone with a simple switch or push-pull pot. It’s like having two different guitars packed into one!
Coil splitting essentially deactivates one of the coils within the humbucker, transforming it into a brighter, more articulate single-coil pickup. This opens up a whole new palette of tones perfect for crisp clean chords, biting lead lines, and those classic “quacky” funk rhythms. Think about nailing the intro to “Sultans of Swing” or adding a touch of shimmering sweetness to your clean passages. The best coil split humbuckers achieve this transition seamlessly, preserving much of the original humbucker’s character while still offering a convincing single-coil voice.
Beyond versatility, coil split humbuckers offer convenience. Instead of lugging around multiple guitars to cover different sonic territories, you can achieve a wide range of tones with a single instrument. This is especially valuable for gigging musicians or anyone who appreciates a streamlined setup. Furthermore, they can breathe new life into your existing guitar, expanding its sonic possibilities and reigniting your creative spark.
Ultimately, investing in coil split humbuckers, particularly the best coil split humbuckers, is about expanding your sonic horizons and empowering your creativity. They are not just pickups, but a gateway to tonal flexibility, allowing you to explore new musical avenues and find your own unique voice. They provide the tools to adapt to any musical situation and express yourself without compromise. So, ditch the limitations and unlock the full potential of your guitar!
Understanding Humbucker Wiring and Coil Splitting
Ever wondered how those beefy humbucker pickups get that thick, powerful sound? It’s all in the wiring! Humbuckers essentially combine two single-coil pickups, wired in a specific way that cancels out hum, hence the name “humbucker.” This design also results in a hotter, louder signal with more sustain, perfect for rock and metal.
Now, coil splitting is where things get interesting. Imagine you could turn off one of those two single coils within the humbucker. That’s exactly what coil splitting does! By using a push-pull pot or a mini-toggle switch, you can essentially short-circuit one of the coils, leaving only one active.
The result? You get a brighter, thinner sound that’s much closer to a traditional single-coil pickup. This provides a ton of versatility, allowing you to switch between the thick, powerful humbucker sound and the snappy, articulate single-coil tone. It’s like having two guitars in one!
Think of it this way: you’re playing a bluesy riff that needs a little extra bite. Instead of reaching for another guitar, you can just pull up on the tone knob to split the coil, giving you that classic single-coil twang. Then, when it’s time for a heavy rock solo, just push the knob back down to unleash the full humbucker fury.
Matching Coil Split Humbuckers to Your Guitar
Not all guitars are created equal, and neither are coil split humbuckers! Finding the right match for your instrument is crucial for achieving the tone you’re after. Consider the wood your guitar is made of. For example, a bright-sounding guitar like an alder Stratocaster might benefit from warmer humbuckers to balance out the tone. Conversely, a dark-sounding guitar like a mahogany Les Paul might need brighter humbuckers to add some clarity.
The type of music you play is another significant factor. If you’re primarily a rock and metal player, you’ll likely want hotter humbuckers with higher output. These will provide plenty of distortion and sustain for aggressive riffs and searing solos. However, if you play a wider range of styles, from blues to country to jazz, you might prefer lower-output humbuckers that offer more clarity and versatility.
Don’t overlook your playing style either. Do you have a light touch, or do you dig in and attack the strings? A more aggressive player might benefit from higher-output pickups that can handle the extra force, while a lighter player might prefer lower-output pickups that respond more sensitively to their dynamics.
Finally, experiment! There’s no substitute for trying different pickups in your own guitar to see what works best for you. Visit your local guitar store and ask to try out different guitars with various humbucker configurations. You might be surprised at what you discover!
Installation and Wiring Considerations
Installing coil split humbuckers can seem daunting, but with a little patience and the right resources, it’s definitely achievable. The most important thing is to understand the wiring diagram that comes with your pickups. Manufacturers typically provide detailed instructions, so take your time and follow them carefully. If you’re not comfortable working with electronics, it’s always best to take your guitar to a qualified technician.
One crucial aspect is identifying the wires coming from the humbucker. You’ll typically have four or five wires: one for each coil, a ground wire, and sometimes a shield wire. The colors of these wires can vary depending on the manufacturer, so always refer to the wiring diagram to avoid any confusion.
When wiring the coil split, you’ll need a push-pull pot or a mini-toggle switch. These components allow you to select which coil of the humbucker is active. The wiring for these switches can be a bit tricky, so again, make sure you have a clear understanding of the wiring diagram before you start soldering.
Consider grounding. Poor grounding can lead to unwanted noise and hum, which defeats the purpose of having humbuckers in the first place. Make sure all your grounds are properly connected to a single grounding point within the guitar’s control cavity. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation process, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A properly installed set of coil split humbuckers can transform your guitar’s tone, so it’s worth getting it right!
Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your Coil Split Humbuckers
Once you’ve installed your coil split humbuckers, it’s important to take care of them to ensure they continue to perform optimally. One of the most common issues is dirt and grime buildup on the pickup covers. This can dampen the sound and affect the overall tone. Regularly clean the covers with a soft cloth to keep them looking and sounding their best.
Another thing to watch out for is loose connections. Over time, the solder joints on the pots, switches, and pickups can weaken, leading to intermittent signal dropouts or scratchy sounds. If you suspect a loose connection, carefully inspect the solder joints and re-solder any that appear to be weak.
If you’re experiencing hum or noise, there are a few things you can check. First, make sure your guitar is properly grounded. A faulty ground connection can introduce unwanted noise into the signal. You can also try using shielded cables to reduce interference. If the noise persists, it could be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a faulty pickup or a problem with the guitar’s wiring.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different pickup heights. Adjusting the height of your humbuckers can significantly impact their tone and output. Raising the pickups closer to the strings will increase the output and make the sound more aggressive, while lowering them will reduce the output and make the sound more mellow. Small adjustments can make a big difference, so play around and find the sweet spot that works best for your playing style and guitar.
Best Coil Split Humbuckers: A Buying Guide
Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiast! So, youβre thinking about diving into the world of coil split humbuckers, huh? Smart move! They offer a fantastic blend of thick, powerful humbucker tones and the brighter, more articulate sounds of single-coil pickups, all in one instrument. It’s like having two guitars in one! But with so many options out there, choosing the right set can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where this guide comes in. Think of me as your friendly neighborhood guitar guru, here to help you navigate the options and find the best coil split humbuckers to suit your playing style and musical needs. Let’s get started!
1. Output Level: Finding Your Sonic Sweet Spot
Think about what kind of music you play the most. If you’re all about high-gain rock or metal, you’ll probably want humbuckers with a higher output. These pickups are designed to drive your amp harder, resulting in a thicker, more saturated tone. They can handle heavy distortion and sustain for days, making them perfect for shredding solos and chugging riffs. However, be warned: excessively high output can sometimes muddy up your clean tones, making them less defined.
On the other hand, if you prefer blues, country, or classic rock, a lower to medium output humbucker might be a better choice. These pickups tend to have more clarity and dynamics, allowing you to really hear the nuances of your playing. They’re also more responsive to your guitar’s volume and tone controls, giving you a wider range of tonal possibilities. When coil split, medium output humbuckers usually sound fantastic while maintaining clarity. Finding the right balance is key to getting the sound you’re after.
2. Tone Wood Compatibility: Matching Pickup to Guitar
The type of wood your guitar is made of has a HUGE impact on its overall tone. A bright-sounding guitar, like one made from maple or ash, might benefit from warmer, darker-sounding humbuckers to balance things out. This will prevent your guitar from sounding too shrill or thin, especially when using the bridge pickup. A darker-sounding guitar, like one made from mahogany or basswood, might pair better with brighter, more articulate humbuckers to add some snap and sparkle.
It’s all about finding the right synergy between your guitar’s inherent tonal characteristics and the pickups you choose. This also applies to the neck that you choose to go along with your guitar. Consider also that your current pickups might simply need to be adjusted on your guitar to find a tone you are already looking for. Experimentation is key! Don’t be afraid to try different combinations until you find the perfect match. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules, just guidelines to help you on your tonal journey.
3. Wiring and Installation: DIY or Professional?
Are you comfortable soldering wires and working with electronics? If so, you might be able to install your new coil split humbuckers yourself. There are tons of helpful tutorials and wiring diagrams available online, and with a little patience, you can save yourself some money. Just be sure to disconnect your guitar from the power source before you start, and double-check your wiring before plugging it in.
However, if you’re not confident in your soldering skills, or if you’re dealing with a complex wiring setup, it’s always best to leave it to the professionals. A qualified guitar tech can ensure that your pickups are installed correctly and that your coil splitting is functioning properly. Plus, they can often troubleshoot any issues that might arise along the way. This ensures the best coil split humbuckers you choose can actually be coil split. Peace of mind is worth a lot!
4. Coil Split Quality: Single-Coil Authenticity
Not all coil splits are created equal! Some humbuckers sound fantastic when split, offering a convincing single-coil tone that’s bright, clear, and articulate. Others, however, can sound thin, weak, and lifeless. The quality of the coil split is often determined by the design and construction of the humbucker itself. Look for pickups that are specifically designed with coil splitting in mind, as these tend to offer the best results.
Pay attention to reviews and demos that specifically focus on the coil split sound. Listen carefully to how the pickup responds when split, and see if it captures the essence of a true single-coil. Does it have that characteristic “quack” in the in-between positions? Does it retain its clarity and definition, even at higher volumes? These are the kinds of questions you should be asking yourself when evaluating the coil split quality.
5. Magnet Type: Alnico vs. Ceramic
The type of magnet used in a humbucker plays a crucial role in its overall tone. Alnico magnets are generally warmer, smoother, and more vintage-sounding, while ceramic magnets are brighter, more aggressive, and have a higher output. Alnico magnets are often preferred for blues, jazz, and classic rock, while ceramic magnets are more common in heavy rock and metal.
When it comes to coil splitting, Alnico magnets often provide a more pleasing single-coil tone. The warmer, smoother characteristics of Alnico can help to prevent the split coil from sounding too harsh or brittle. Ceramic magnets, on the other hand, can sometimes sound a bit thin and sterile when split. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, and some ceramic magnet humbuckers can sound fantastic when split. But generally, Alnico magnets are a safer bet for achieving a convincing single-coil tone.
6. Wax Potting: Taming Unwanted Noise
Wax potting is the process of submerging a pickup in hot wax to fill any air gaps and prevent microphonic feedback. Microphonic feedback is that annoying squealing sound you sometimes get when playing at high volumes, especially with high-gain amps. Wax potting helps to dampen vibrations within the pickup, reducing the likelihood of feedback.
While some players prefer unpotted pickups for their slightly more open and dynamic sound, they can be more prone to feedback, especially with higher output levels. For most players, wax potting is a desirable feature, as it helps to ensure a cleaner, more stable tone, especially when using the best coil split humbuckers in high-gain situations. Consider the types of amplifiers you use, and how loud you tend to play to get the most out of wax potting, and what tone might sound best for you.
7. Price Point: Balancing Quality and Budget
Let’s be honest, price is always a factor. Coil split humbuckers can range in price from budget-friendly to high-end boutique models. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s important to remember that you often get what you pay for. Cheaper pickups might use lower-quality components, which can negatively impact their tone, durability, and coil split performance.
However, that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to get a great set of coil split humbuckers. There are plenty of excellent options available at mid-range price points that offer a fantastic balance of quality and affordability. Do your research, read reviews, and listen to demos to find the best value for your money. Remember, the most expensive pickups aren’t always the best choice. It’s about finding the right pickups that suit your playing style and musical needs, regardless of price.
FAQ
What exactly is coil splitting, and why would I want it?
Coil splitting is a clever wiring trick that essentially turns a humbucker pickup (which has two coils) into a single-coil pickup at the flick of a switch or push/pull pot. Think of it like having two guitars in one! Humbuckers are known for their thick, warm, and powerful sound, great for rock and metal. Single-coils, on the other hand, offer a brighter, more articulate, and often “twangier” tone that’s popular in genres like country, blues, and funk.
So, why would you want it? Flexibility, plain and simple! With coil splitting, you gain access to both the beefy humbucker sound and the crisp single-coil sound without having to switch guitars. It’s incredibly useful for players who cover a wide range of styles or simply want more tonal options at their fingertips. It’s like adding a whole new palette of colors to your sonic toolbox.
Will coil splitting make my humbucker sound exactly like a “real” single-coil pickup?
Thatβs a great question, and the short answer is: not exactly. While coil splitting gets you closer to a single-coil sound, there will always be some differences. A true single-coil is designed from the ground up as a single-coil, with its own unique construction and characteristics. Coil splitting a humbucker involves shutting off one of its coils, which changes the output and tonal character, but it’s still based on the architecture of a humbucker.
However, the difference can be quite subtle, especially with well-designed humbuckers specifically made for coil splitting. Many players find the split sound to be incredibly usable and convincing, offering a significant departure from the full humbucker tone. Think of it as a very good approximation β often good enough to cover most single-coil needs. Plus, the convenience of having both sounds available in one pickup is a huge bonus!
Are all humbuckers able to be coil-split?
Not all humbuckers are created equal when it comes to coil splitting. For a humbucker to be successfully coil-split, it needs to be wired in a specific way. It needs to have 4-conductor wiring, meaning there are four wires coming from the pickup (plus a ground wire). These wires allow you to access the connection point between the two coils, enabling the coil splitting function.
If your humbucker only has 2-conductor wiring (meaning only two wires plus a ground), it cannot be coil-split without some serious modifications, and even then, it might not be worth the effort. So, before you get too excited about coil splitting, make sure your humbuckers have that 4-conductor wiring. Most aftermarket pickups designed for coil splitting will explicitly mention this feature in their specs.
I’ve heard that coil splitting can make my guitar sound weaker. Is this true?
Yes, youβve heard correctly! When you split a humbucker, you’re effectively cutting the output in half by disabling one of the coils. This inevitably leads to a drop in volume and a less powerful signal compared to the full humbucker mode. Itβs a natural consequence of having only one coil active.
However, this isnβt necessarily a bad thing. The reduced output can actually be beneficial in certain situations, such as when you want a cleaner, more delicate tone. The key is to be aware of this volume drop and to adjust your amp or pedals accordingly. Some players use a clean boost pedal to compensate for the volume difference when switching to the split coil sound. Ultimately, it’s about managing the output difference to suit your playing needs.
Is it difficult to install a coil split humbucker myself?
The difficulty of installing a coil-split humbucker depends largely on your soldering skills and familiarity with guitar wiring. If youβve never soldered before or are intimidated by electronics, itβs probably best to have a professional do it. Incorrect wiring can damage your guitar or pickups.
However, if you’re comfortable with soldering and have some experience with guitar wiring diagrams, it can be a manageable DIY project. You’ll need a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters, wire strippers, and a wiring diagram that matches your guitar and the specific humbucker you’re installing. There are tons of helpful tutorials online, but take your time, double-check your connections, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck.
What kind of switch or pot do I need to use for coil splitting?
To activate coil splitting, you’ll need a switch or potentiometer (pot) that can interrupt the connection between the two coils of your humbucker. The most common options are push/pull pots and toggle switches. Push/pull pots replace your existing volume or tone pots and have a switch built into them that’s activated when you pull the knob up. These are a popular choice because they don’t require drilling any new holes in your guitar.
Toggle switches, on the other hand, usually require drilling a small hole in your guitar’s body or pickguard. They offer a more direct and immediate switching action. The type of switch you choose is largely a matter of personal preference and aesthetic considerations. Both push/pull pots and toggle switches can work effectively for coil splitting. Just make sure the switch you choose has enough poles and throws to handle the wiring for your specific coil-splitting setup.
How do I choose the best coil split humbucker for *my* guitar?
Choosing the “best” coil-split humbucker is a subjective process, as it depends on your guitar’s wood, your playing style, and the type of tones you’re after. Consider the inherent sound characteristics of your guitar β is it naturally bright or dark? If it’s bright, you might want a warmer humbucker that balances the tone. If it’s dark, a brighter humbucker might be a better fit.
Think about the genres of music you play most often. Are you primarily a rock player who occasionally wants a cleaner, single-coil sound? Or are you more of a blues player who wants the option of a thicker, humbucker tone? Finally, read reviews and listen to sound samples of different humbuckers in guitars similar to yours. Ultimately, it might take some experimentation to find the perfect match, but doing your research beforehand will greatly increase your chances of finding a winner!
Verdict
Alright, you’ve now got the lowdown on some seriously impressive options to unlock a whole new level of tonal versatility from your guitar! Finding the best coil split humbuckers is all about understanding your personal playing style and what sounds you’re chasing. Think about the genres you love, the artists who inspire you, and how you can use these pickups to carve out your own unique sonic fingerprint. The power is in your hands β literally!
Go forth and experiment! Don’t be afraid to try something new, even if itβs outside your comfort zone. The journey to finding that perfect humbucker is a rewarding one, and once you’ve nailed it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without that single-coil snap hidden inside that powerful humbucking tone. You’re now equipped to make an informed decision and unleash a world of possibilities from your instrument. Happy playing!