Metal music demands pickups that can handle extreme playing styles and deliver articulate, powerful tones even under the heaviest distortion. For guitarists looking to upgrade their sound, swapping pickups is a cost-effective and impactful way to transform your instrument. Whether you’re chasing razor-sharp riffs, searing solos, or bone-crushing low-end, the right pickups are essential for achieving your ideal metal tone. This guide dives into the Best Guitar Pickups For Metal, exploring top models and key considerations to help you make the perfect choice for your guitar and playing style.
Upgrading your guitar pickups is arguably the most significant sonic improvement you can make without buying a new instrument. Pickups are the heart of your electric guitar’s sound, capturing string vibrations and converting them into an electrical signal. Even a budget-friendly guitar can achieve professional-level tones with a quality pickup upgrade. While professional installation is recommended for those unfamiliar with electronics, pickup swapping can be a rewarding DIY project for those with patience and basic soldering skills. Many guitar technicians also offer affordable pickup installation services.
To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a list of the best metal pickups available today. Whether you’re a seasoned metal veteran or just starting to explore high-gain sounds, this guide will provide the insights you need. For those new to pickup upgrades, be sure to check out our buying advice section at the end of this article for essential tips and information. If you’re ready to discover the top metal pickups, keep reading for our expert selections.
Best Pickups for Metal: GuitarPlayers.net Top Picks
Leading our list is the Fishman Fluence Modern humbucker, a modern marvel that has quickly become a favorite among metal guitarists. Frequently found as stock pickups on high-performance guitars from brands like Ibanez, ESP, and Schecter, Fishman Fluence Moderns are renowned for their exceptional articulation and noise-free operation, even with extreme levels of gain. These pickups are ideal for the intricate and demanding techniques prevalent in modern metal genres.
Securing the second spot is another iconic metal pickup, the EMG 81. This legendary pickup, favored by metal icons such as Kerry King and Zakk Wylde, delivers a powerful and aggressive tone perfect for both heavy riffs and soaring solos. The EMG 81’s distinct sound has made it arguably the most popular metal pickup of all time, defining the sound of countless metal classics.
Best Pickups for Metal: Product Guide
Fishman Fluence Modern Set showcasing its modern design and construction for metal guitar pickups
(Image credit: Fishman)
1. Fishman Fluence Modern Set
The most revolutionary pickup design since the original humbucker, offering unparalleled versatility for metal.
Our Expert Review:
The Fishman Fluence Modern set redefines pickup technology, offering a groundbreaking approach to achieving both active and passive tones within a single set. For players who demand sonic flexibility without sacrificing metal performance, these pickups are a game-changer.
Specifications
- Type: Active multi-voice humbucking
- Magnet: Alnico V (neck), Ceramic VIII (bridge)
Reasons to Buy
- Unbelievable, cutting-edge metal tones with exceptional clarity.
- Super quiet operation, eliminating unwanted noise in high-gain settings.
- Active and passive voicings provide a wide tonal palette.
- Optional lithium power pack for convenient USB charging.
Reasons to Avoid
- The extensive voicing options might be overwhelming for players seeking simplicity.
The Fluence series stands out due to its innovative construction. Instead of traditional wound copper wire coils, Fishman utilizes stacked layers of printed coils and intricate interconnections. This unique method ensures exceptional consistency across the pickup’s dynamic and tonal range, delivering remarkable accuracy and an ultra-fast attack response that’s crucial for precise metal playing. The optional power pack is a significant advantage, allowing for USB-powered operation and eliminating the need for constant 9-volt battery replacements.
Beyond the Modern set, Fishman offers signature Fluence pickups developed in collaboration with guitarists from bands like Killswitch Engage, Deftones, Animals As Leaders, and Lamb Of God. However, the Moderns serve as an excellent all-around choice for 6-, 7-, and 8-string metal guitars, providing the foundation for a wide range of heavy styles.
Watch the official Fishman Fluence Modern review video for a detailed sound demonstration.
Seymour Duncan JB SH-4 pickup, a timeless passive humbucker for versatile guitar tones in metal
(Image credit: Seymour Duncan)
2. Seymour Duncan JB SH-4
A timeless passive humbucker invented in 1974, still delivering exceptional tone and versatility for metal and beyond.
Our Expert Review:
While not explicitly marketed as a dedicated metal pickup, the Seymour Duncan JB SH-4 has earned its place in metal history through its adoption by numerous heavy music icons. Its enduring popularity stems from its versatility and ability to deliver both aggressive and articulate tones.
Specifications
- Type: Passive humbucking
- Magnet: Alnico V
- DC Resistance: 16.6k
Reasons to Buy
- One of the best-selling guitar pickups of all time, a testament to its quality and tone.
- Coil-splitting options for expanded tonal versatility.
Reasons to Avoid
- May lack the extreme low-end punch desired by some modern metal players.
The JB’s impressive roster of heavy music users includes Adam Jones of Tool, Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains, and thrash metal pioneers Megadeth. Its versatility is a key strength, offering superior clean and blues tones compared to many high-output active pickups, while still providing ample bite and aggression for rock and metal.
Often paired with a Seymour Duncan ’59 or Jazz neck pickup, the JB is sometimes considered more of a rock pickup than a purely metal one due to its balanced frequency response. While it might not deliver the scooped mids and massive low-end of some dedicated metal pickups, the JB’s strength lies in its ability to cut through the mix with exceptional clarity, making it a favorite for lead guitarists and rhythm players alike for nearly five decades.
EMG 81 active humbucker, the definitive metal pickup for aggressive and high-output guitar tones
(Image credit: EMG)
3. EMG 81
Arguably the definitive sound of metal, the EMG 81 is the benchmark for aggressive, high-output active pickups.
Our Expert Review:
The EMG 81 is synonymous with metal. Famously used by legendary metal guitarists like Zakk Wylde and Kerry King as their primary bridge pickup, the EMG 81 has been instrumental in shaping some of the heaviest and most iconic metal tones ever recorded.
Specifications
- Type: Active humbucking
- Magnet: Ceramic
Reasons to Buy
- The most popular bridge pickup choice for metal guitarists worldwide.
- Powerful ceramic magnet delivers high output and aggressive tone.
Reasons to Avoid
- Clean tones can be less inspiring and lack the warmth of passive pickups.
Typically paired with the EMG 85 in the neck position (which utilizes an Alnico V magnet for a warmer tone), the EMG 81’s active ceramic tones are truly formidable. It delivers a perfect EQ scoop, emphasizing highs and lows while slightly recessing mids, resulting in razor-sharp riffing tones and screaming harmonics that are essential for many metal genres.
The primary drawback of the EMG 81 is its clean channel performance. Many players find it too sterile and compressed when used for clean tones, especially compared to the dynamic and nuanced cleans achievable with passive pickups. However, if your focus is solely on high-octane, high-gain metal tones, and you prioritize maximum aggression and output, the EMG 81 remains an undisputed best-seller and a top choice for countless metal guitarists.
Bare Knuckle Pickups Ragnarok, a versatile passive humbucker for metal with exceptional clarity and dynamic response
(Image credit: Bare Knuckle Pickups)
4. Bare Knuckle Pickups Ragnarok
One of the most versatile high-gain pickups for metal, offering both aggression and surprising clean tone capabilities.
Our Expert Review:
The Bare Knuckle Pickups Ragnarok represents a collaboration with Misha Mansoor of Periphery, resulting in a boutique passive humbucker that rivals active pickups in aggression while retaining exceptional versatility. Designed for aggressive playing styles and down-tuned metal genres, the Ragnarok is a true sonic powerhouse.
Specifications
- Type: Passive humbucking
- Magnet: Ceramic
- DC Resistance: 15.8k (neck), 19k (bridge)
Reasons to Buy
- Sounds and performs like an active pickup with the dynamics of a passive.
- Excellent clean sound, especially when coil-split.
- Handles extreme distortion brilliantly without becoming muddy.
Reasons to Avoid
- Some players may prefer the warmer, more vintage tone of Alnico magnets.
The Ragnarok boasts a massive midrange presence, delivering clear and powerful power chords with a robust low-end response ideal for heavy riffing and chugging. Its top-end is articulate and searing, perfect for lead tones that cut through even the densest mixes, handling excessive distortion without losing clarity or becoming muddy.
Surprisingly, the Ragnarok also excels in clean tones. When coil-split, it produces jangly and articulate clean sounds, a characteristic not often found in humbuckers designed for high-gain metal. If you seek a humbucker that seamlessly transitions from aggressive high-gain tones to pristine clean passages, the Bare Knuckle Ragnarok is an exceptional choice, offering unparalleled versatility for demanding metal players.
DiMarzio Super Distortion DP100, the original aftermarket pickup and a classic choice for high-output metal tones
(Image credit: DiMarzio)
5. DiMarzio Super Distortion DP100
The original aftermarket pickup, introduced in 1972, continues to impress with its classic high-output tone for rock and metal.
Our Expert Review:
The DiMarzio Super Distortion DP100 holds a significant place in pickup history as one of the first aftermarket pickups. Introduced in 1972, it propelled Larry DiMarzio to prominence and became a staple for guitarists seeking increased output and aggressive tones.
Specifications
- Type: Passive humbucking
- Magnet: Ceramic
- DC Resistance: 13.68k
Reasons to Buy
- An enduring classic with a proven track record in rock and metal.
- Versatile enough for various high-gain styles.
Reasons to Avoid
- May not be as high-output or aggressive as some modern metal pickups.
Utilizing ceramic magnets, the Super Distortion delivers approximately twice the output of a typical PAF-style pickup. This increased output is ideal for driving the input stage of guitar amplifiers harder, making it immensely popular among hard rock, metal, and shred guitarists. Its impressive list of users includes Adrian Smith and Phil Collen of Iron Maiden, Paul Gilbert, and Zoltan Bathory of Five Finger Death Punch.
Steve Vai reminisced about the Super Distortion’s impact: “I was 12 years old in 1972 when Larry created the first replacement pickup to be released onto the guitar scene with his Super Distortion model. It rocked everybody’s world. And I was 16 when I was able to buy my first DiMarzio replacement pick up. From then on, DiMarzio pickups are virtually all I’ve used.” The DiMarzio Super Distortion remains a testament to its enduring design and its contribution to shaping the sound of high-gain guitar music.
Fishman Fluence Classic Set, offering vintage-voiced tones with active clarity for metal and classic rock guitar styles
(Image credit: Fishman)
6. Fishman Fluence Classic Set
A less extreme Fluence option, delivering vintage-inspired tones with the clarity and articulation of active technology.
Our Expert Review:
While the Fishman Fluence Modern set is a top contender for pure metal aggression, the Fluence Classic set offers a different flavor, bringing the benefits of active clarity to more vintage-voiced tones. This set caters to players who appreciate classic rock and traditional metal sounds but desire the noise-free performance and articulation of active pickups.
Specifications
- Type: Active multi-voice humbucking
- Magnet: Alnico V
Reasons to Buy
- Three distinct voicings for maximum tonal flexibility.
- Vintage-inspired tones with modern active clarity.
- Steel Panther endorsement for classic rock and metal authenticity.
Reasons to Avoid
- The voice switching system might not appeal to all players.
Like the Modern set, the Fluence Classics feature three distinct voicings. These include a chimey neck pickup tone, a hot-rodded bridge humbucker sound, and single-coil modes for both pickups, all within Fishman’s advanced Fluence design. This versatility makes the Classic set suitable for players who cover a wide range of styles within rock and metal.
Satchel of Steel Panther, known for his classic rock-infused metal style, endorses the Fluence Classic set, stating, “Fishman pickups are the best pickups on the market as far as I’m concerned. They sound heavy metal. You could probably plug it in to your grandmother’s refrigerator and just turn the refrigerator up to 10, and it would sound like a modded Eddie Van Halen on Van Halen 1. How cool is that?!” For players seeking vintage-inspired tones with modern active performance, the Fishman Fluence Classic set is a compelling option.
EMG 57/66 set, a more open and versatile active humbucker set from EMG for metal and diverse guitar styles
(Image credit: EMG)
7. EMG 57/66 Set
A more open and dynamically responsive active humbucker set from EMG, offering versatility beyond traditional metal tones.
Our Expert Review:
In 2012, EMG introduced the 57/66 set to address the needs of players who desired the attack and responsiveness of active pickups but with greater warmth and musicality, characteristics often associated with passive designs. This set aimed to bridge the gap between traditional active and passive pickup tones.
Specifications
- Type: Active humbucking
- Magnet: Alnico V with steel/ceramic pole pieces
Reasons to Buy
- Incredibly versatile, suitable for a wide range of genres beyond metal.
- Offers both single-coil-like clarity and humbucker power.
- Endorsed by Judas Priest for its powerful and articulate tone.
Reasons to Avoid
- Still requires battery power, like all active pickups.
The EMG 57/66 set was designed for players who appreciated the punch of the classic 81/85 set but sought improved clean tones and greater overall versatility. Addressing a common critique of the 81/85 set (particularly the Zakk Wylde signature set), EMG successfully delivered a more balanced and adaptable active pickup system.
Richie Faulkner of Judas Priest praised the 57/66 set upon its release, noting its “open and unforgiving sound” and its ability to “speak in the right places.” He highlighted the pickups’ consistency and character, making them suitable for a wide range of playing styles within and beyond metal. For players seeking active pickup performance with enhanced versatility and a more organic feel, the EMG 57/66 set is an excellent choice.
Seymour Duncan Mark Holcomb Alpha & Omega set, high-output passive humbuckers for djent and modern metal guitar tones
(Image credit: Seymour Duncan)
8. Seymour Duncan Mark Holcomb Alpha & Omega
Designed for precision and clarity, these high-output passive humbuckers are perfect for djent and modern progressive metal styles.
Our Expert Review:
The Seymour Duncan Mark Holcomb Alpha & Omega set is a signature creation designed in collaboration with Mark Holcomb of Periphery. These pickups are engineered for the exacting demands of djent and modern progressive metal, emphasizing precision, clarity, and articulate high-gain performance.
Specifications
- Type: Passive humbucking
- Magnet: Ceramic
- DC Resistance: 10.97k (neck), 18.27k (bridge)
Reasons to Buy
- High-output passive design with exceptional clarity.
- Perfectly voiced for down-tuned riffs and complex rhythms.
- Ultra-clear chord definition even under heavy distortion.
Reasons to Avoid
- Positioned at a higher price point compared to some other passive pickups.
The Alpha & Omega set is available for 6-, 7-, and 8-string guitars, catering to a wide range of modern metal instruments, including standard guitars, baritones, and extended-range guitars. These pickups are among the hottest passive humbuckers on the market, delivering high output while maintaining exceptional clarity and detail, even in lower tunings.
While optimized for lower tunings common in djent and progressive metal, the Alpha & Omega set performs equally well in standard tuning. Their EQ is carefully balanced to retain detail and articulation, making them ideal for complex chords, intricate riffs, and soaring lead lines, solidifying their place among the best pickups for modern metal guitarists seeking precision and power.
Best Pickups for Metal: Buying Advice
EMG pickups installed on a Jackson guitar, showcasing a common brand and guitar pairing for metal music
(Image credit: Future)
Upgrading your guitar pickups is a fast and effective way to dramatically improve your guitar’s sound. Pickups are the initial point of sound capture, and their quality significantly impacts your overall tone. Before upgrading, consider the tools you’ll need for DIY installation and familiarize yourself with pickup basics.
What is the difference between active and passive pickups?
Many metal guitars utilize active pickups instead of traditional passive pickups. Active pickups excel in hard rock and metal due to their higher output, resulting in a brighter, more articulate sound that cuts through high-gain distortion. They require an external power source, typically a 9V battery. Consider this power requirement when switching from active to passive pickups.
Passive pickups have lower output and don’t need external power. They offer a more open, dynamic sound and respond sensitively to playing nuances and volume knob adjustments. The majority of guitar pickups are passive, favored for their expressive character.
Are humbuckers better for metal?
This guide focuses on humbuckers because they are generally better suited for metal. Their higher output provides greater sustain and a thicker sound, crucial for powerful metal riffs. Single-coil pickups, while versatile, often lack the thickness and output needed for heavy metal tones.
Single coil pickups with exposed coils, illustrating their design and contrast to humbucker pickups for guitar
(Image credit: Future)
Can I install guitar pickups myself?
Pickup installation is surprisingly accessible. With basic tools and online tutorials, you can swap pickups relatively easily. You’ll need a soldering iron, screwdrivers, wire cutters, and protective cloth. Numerous online videos guide you through the process. For detailed instructions, refer to articles like “how to install humbucker pickups” for helpful tips and tricks.
How do I choose the right size and type of pickups for my guitar?
Pickup compatibility is crucial. Direct humbucker-to-humbucker swaps are usually straightforward. However, switching between humbuckers and P-90s requires more complex routing adjustments. Pickup manufacturers usually provide dimensions on their websites. Always measure your guitar’s pickup cavity before purchasing.
Pole piece spacing is another factor. Ideally, pole pieces should align with your strings. String spacing varies between guitar brands, and bridge/neck pickups have different spacing. Bridge pickups typically have wider spacing. For guitars with locking tremolos, which often have wider string spacing, consider “F-spaced” pickups designed for tremolo-equipped guitars.
Guitar body routing to accommodate a humbucker pickup, demonstrating a modification process for pickup installation
(Image credit: Future)
What are some common mistakes to avoid when installing guitar pickups?
Many mistakes occur when switching between single-coils and humbuckers due to differing electronics.
Potentiometer (pot) values are essential. Single-coil pickups typically use 250k pots, while humbuckers prefer 500k pots. Incorrect pot values can lead to overly bright or muddy tones.
Coil wire damage is a common issue. Be extremely careful not to nick the thin copper coil wire during installation, as it can render the pickup unusable.
Knowing when to seek professional help is important. If you encounter difficulties or are unsure, consult a luthier or guitar tech. They can resolve complex issues and ensure proper installation quickly and efficiently.
Explore more about our recommendation process and how we test products in our buyer’s guides.
