Whether it's in a Telecaster, a Strat, a Precision Bass or a Jazzmaster, there are few more instantly identifiable sounds than those of Fender pickups. From the smooth but cutting sound of Leo Fender's early steel guitar pickup designs in the mid-1940s to the modern, more aggressive sound of many of Tim Shaw's designs, Fender has always been at the leading edge of pickup design.

Pictured: Fender American Ultra II Telecaster in Avalanche

In this article, we're going to take a quick look at Fender's history in guitar and bass pickups, then dive into some of their current offerings in replacement pickups that we think are superb choices for electric guitarists and bassists looking to tune up their tone. So, turn it up to 11, and let's dive in.

Table of Contents

The History of Fender Pickup Manufacturing
Popular Fender Telecaster Pickups
   Fender Custom Shop Texas Special Telecaster Pickup Set
   Fender Pure Vintage '51 Telecaster Pickup Set
   Fender Pure Vintage '64 Telecaster Pickup Set
   Fender Deluxe Drive Telecaster Pickup Set
   Fender Custom Shop Twisted Tele Pickup Set
Popular Fender Stratocaster Pickups
   Fender Custom Shop Texas Special Stratocaster Pickup Set
   Fender Stratocaster Original '57/'62 Pickup Set
   Fender Fat '50s Stratocaster Pickup Set
   Fender Pure Vintage '65 Stratocaster Pickup Set
   Fender Gen 4 Noiseless Stratocaster Pickup Set
Popular Fender Humbucker Pickups
   Fender Custom Shop Michael Landau CuNiFe Wide Range Humbucker
   Fender Kingfish Signature Humbucker Pickup Set
   Fender ShawBucker 2 Humbucking Zebra Bridge Pickup
Popular Fender Offset Guitar Pickups
   Fender Pure Vintage Jazzmaster Pickup Set
   Fender CuNiFe Wide Range Jazzmaster Pickup Set
   Fender Pure Vintage Jaguar Pickup Set
Popular Fender Bass Pickups
   Fender Custom Shop '60s J Bass Pickup Set
   Fender Custom Shop '62 P Bass Pickup Set
   Fender Yosemite PJ Bass Pickup Set
Connecting to Your Sound

The History of Fender Pickup Manufacturing

Fender’s journey in pickup design is a testament to innovation and a relentless pursuit of tonal excellence. Though he wasn't a musician himself, Leo Fender, the company’s founder, was instrumental in this evolution, securing numerous patents that laid the groundwork for Fender’s distinctive sound.

In the late 1940s and early 1950s, Leo Fender revolutionized electric guitar pickups with his novel single-coil designs for Fender’s lap steel guitars and the guitar that would become the Telecaster. Unlike Gibson’s P-90 pickups, which had a warmer, mid-focused tone, Fender’s single coils offered a brighter, more articulate sound. This was achieved by using individual magnetic pole pieces for each string, resulting in greater clarity and string separation.

Pictured: 1965 Vintage Fender Jazz Bass

A significant advancement came in 1956, when Fender filed a patent for a hum-canceling pickup intended for lap steel guitars. This design aimed to reduce the 60-cycle hum inherent in single-coil pickups, a problem that Gibson’s Seth Lover addressed with the invention of the humbucking pickup in 1955. While Fender’s hum-canceling design didn’t see immediate application in their standard guitar lineup, it showcased Leo’s commitment to innovation. However, Fender's design for a pickup they could have called "humbucking"—the split-coil Precision Bass pickup, which featured reverse-wound, reverse-polarity coils—debuted in 1957.

The late 1960s marked a pivotal moment as Fender sought to incorporate humbucking pickups into their instruments. To achieve this, they enlisted Seth Lover, the original inventor of the humbucker. Lover developed the Wide Range humbucker for Fender, utilizing CuNiFe (copper-nickel-iron) magnets. This choice distinguished Fender’s humbuckers from Gibson’s, offering a brighter tone that aligned with Fender’s sonic identity. This unique pickup debuted in 1971 on the Telecaster Thinline, Tele Custom and Tele Deluxe.

In the 1980s, Tim Shaw, a renowned pickup designer, joined Fender and played a crucial role in modernizing their pickup offerings. Shaw’s expertise led to the development of pickups that balanced vintage tonal qualities with contemporary performance demands. His work ensured that Fender’s instruments remained versatile and relevant to evolving musical styles.

Fender’s dedication to pickup innovation continues into the present day. The 2020 reintroduction of CuNiFe magnets in the Wide Range humbucker pickups, for instance, pays homage to their heritage while catering to modern players’ desires for vintage tones. This blend of tradition and innovation underscores Fender’s ongoing influence in the realm of electric guitar pickups.

Pictured: 1965 Vintage Fender Jazzmaster in Red

Timeline of Notable Fender Pickup Innovations:

• 1950: Introduction of the Broadcaster (later Telecaster) with a single-coil bridge pickup, offering bright and cutting tones
• 1954: Launch of the Stratocaster, featuring three single-coil pickups for versatile tonal options
• 1956: Leo Fender files a patent for a hum-canceling pickup design intended for lap steel guitars
• 1957: Fender's design for a split-coil hum-eliminating pickup debuts on the Precision Bass
• 1968: Seth Lover joins Fender, developing the Wide Range humbucker with CuNiFe magnets, expanding Fender’s tonal palette
• 1980s: Tim Shaw contributes to the design of new pickups, blending vintage sound with modern performance
• 2020: Fender reintroduces CuNiFe magnet pickups, reviving the classic Wide Range humbucker tone for contemporary players

This timeline highlights Fender’s enduring commitment to innovation in pickup design, continually shaping the sound of electric guitars across generations.

Enough history—let's get to the pickups themselves, and why we think they're worthy of your attention. Please note that all average ratings and customer reviews in the following sections are based on available data from Guitar Center’s website as of December 2024.

Popular Fender Telecaster Pickups

Pickup Model	Magnet Type	Output Level	DC Resistance (kohms)	Tonal Profile
Custom Shop Texas Special Tele	Alnico V	High	9.5 (Neck)/10.5 (Bridge)	Overwound for bluesy tones with midrange emphasis; hotter output
Pure Vintage ’51 Telecaster Set	Alnico III	Moderate	7.2 (Neck)/ 7.4 (Bridge)	Classic ’50s Tele tone; bright, twangy with punchy mids
Pure Vintage ’64 Telecaster Set	Alnico V	Moderate	7.0 (Neck)/ 7.6 (Bridge)	Smooth mids, articulate highs; iconic ’60s Telecaster sound
Deluxe Drive Telecaster Set	Alnico V	High	9.5 (Neck)/ 10.5 (Bridge)	High output for modern rock; bold lows and crisp highs
Custom Shop Twisted Tele Pickups	Alnico V	High (Neck)	5.9 (Neck)/ 6.8 (Bridge)	Strat-like clarity in the neck, punchy and bright in the bridge

Fender Custom Shop Texas Special Telecaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Overwound for high output, these pickups bring fiery mids and crisp dynamics for blues and rock.

Things to Consider:

• Higher output and midrange response suit rock and blues but stray from classic Tele twang
• Copper-plated steel bottom plate enhances attack but adds slight weight to the sound
• Best paired with amps that complement mid-heavy tones for optimal performance

 

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop Texas Special Telecaster Pickup Set

Designed for the blues and rock guitarist, the Texas Special Tele pickups are overwound to deliver increased output, resulting in a pronounced midrange and crisp highs. The bridge pickup features height-staggered pole pieces and a copper-plated steel bottom plate, enhancing presence and dynamics. These pickups excel in pushing tube amps into natural overdrive, offering a rich, expressive tone. However, their higher output may not suit players seeking the traditional Telecaster twang.

Average Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups transformed my Tele into a blues machine. The clarity and punch are outstanding, especially when driving my tube amp.”

Fender Pure Vintage '51 Telecaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Get authentic 1951 Telecaster tones with tight lows and clear mids—perfect for vintage enthusiasts.

Things to Consider:

• Low output may not deliver the punch needed for modern high-gain genres
• Alnico 3 magnets excel at vintage tones but lack the sharp brightness of Alnico 5-based pickups      
• Ideal for players seeking period-correct sound and response

Shop Now: Fender Pure Vintage '51 Telecaster Pickup Set

For enthusiasts of vintage Fender tones, the Pure Vintage ’51 Telecaster Pickup Set offers tight low end and clear, balanced midrange, faithfully recreating the sound of the original 1951 Telecaster. Utilizing Alnico 3 magnets and period-correct construction techniques, these pickups provide authentic vintage tones ideal for country and early rock styles. Players seeking higher output for modern genres might find these pickups less suitable.

Average Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “If you’re after that original Tele sound, these pickups deliver in spades. Perfect for classic country tunes.”

Fender Pure Vintage '64 Telecaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: These pickups deliver real-deal mid-’60s Telecaster tones with clear highs, rich lows and full-on vintage vibe.

Things to Consider:

•   Vintage output levels might feel underpowered for heavier playing styles
• Enamel-coated wire ensures tonal warmth but can limit high-end clarity
• Alnico 5 magnets offer punch but may highlight string attack over tonal subtleties

Shop Now: Fender Pure Vintage '54 Telecaster Pickup Set

Capturing the essence of mid-60s Telecaster tones, the Pure Vintage ’64 set offers a warm, articulate sound with clear highs and robust lows. Featuring Alnico 5 magnets and enamel-coated magnet wire, these pickups ensure period-accurate performance, making them ideal for genres like surf rock and classic pop. The vintage output level may not provide the punch required for heavier music styles.

Average Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups bring out the jangle and clarity I love in ’60s music. They nailed the vintage vibe.”

Fender Deluxe Drive Telecaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: These high-output pickups are imbued with a modern edge, combining punchy bass and sizzling treble.

Things to Consider:

• Aggressive tones might overpower the Telecaster’s signature brightness
• Designed for versatility but may feel less dynamic at lower volumes
• Excellent choice for genre-spanning setups, from country to rock

Shop Now: Fender Deluxe Drive Telecaster Pickup Set

Engineered for modern players, Deluxe Drive Telecaster pickups deliver high output with enhanced bass response and crisp highs. Their versatility suits various genres, from country to hard rock. However, the heightened output and bass response might overwhelm the classic Telecaster brightness, making them less ideal for traditionalists.

Average Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “Great for modern styles. They add a new dimension to my Tele, especially when playing rock.”

Fender Custom Shop Twisted Tele Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Strat-like sparkle in the neck and Tele bite in the bridge make these uniquely versatile.

Things to Consider:

• Hybrid tone may not suit purists seeking true Telecaster or Strat sounds
• Slightly brighter neck pickup could require amp adjustments for balance
• Great for players who want expanded tonal options without switching guitars

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop Twisted Telecaster Pickup Set

The Fender Custom Shop Twisted Tele Pickup Set is designed to infuse your Telecaster with a touch of Stratocaster sparkle. The neck pickup features a taller bobbin wound with Formvar-coated wire, delivering bright, glassy tones reminiscent of a Stratocaster. In contrast, the bridge pickup utilizes enamel-coated wire and a slightly shorter bobbin, producing a warm, vintage-style sound with full-bodied midrange. This combination offers a versatile tonal palette, making it ideal for players seeking to expand their Telecaster’s sonic capabilities.

Average Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “The Twisted Tele pickups transformed my guitar, providing the perfect blend of Tele twang and Strat clarity. They’re incredibly versatile and responsive.”

Popular Fender Stratocaster Pickups

Pickup Model	Magnet Type	Output Level	DC Resistance (kohm)	Tonal Profile
Custom Shop Texas Special Strat	Alnico V	High	6.2 (Neck)/6.5 (Middle)/5.9 (Bridge)	Bluesy with midrange punch; hotter-than-vintage tone
Original ’57/’62 Strat Set	Alnico V	Moderate	5.6 (Neck)/5.8 (Middle)/5.9 (Bridge)	Clear, bell-like tones; vintage Strat sound
Fat ’50s Strat Pickup Set	Alnico V	High	6.0 (Neck)/6.3 (Middle)/6.5 (Bridge)	Warm lows, bright highs; enhanced bass response
Pure Vintage ’65 Strat Set	Alnico V	Moderate	5.9 (Neck)/6.0 (Middle/6.2 (Bridge)	Full-bodied, clear tone with smooth high-end roll-off
Gen 4 Noiseless Strat Pickups	Alnico V	Moderate	10.3 (All)	Vintage tone with zero hum; articulate highs and tight lows

Fender Custom Shop Texas Special Stratocaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Overwound for searing blues tones, these pickups deliver bold mids and sizzling highs.

Things to Consider:

• Enhanced output makes them perfect for pushing tube amps into overdrive
• Alnico 5 magnets provide a punchy, bright sound but can feel aggressive in cleaner settings
• Designed for blues and rock but less ideal for players seeking vintage Strat chime

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop Texas Special Stratocaster Pickup Set

Texas Special Strat pickups are overwound for bold midrange and increased output, making them perfect for blues and rock. Their Alnico 5 magnets deliver powerful highs and tight lows, and the staggered pole pieces ensure balanced string response. These pickups shine when pushing tube amps into warm overdrive, offering expressive dynamics and clarity for lead playing.

Average Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups scream Texas blues! They brought my Strat to life with dynamic range and a biting tone that’s perfect for solos.”

Fender Stratocaster Original '57/'62 Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Get classic ’50s and ’60s Strat tone with glassy highs and balanced warmth.

Things to Consider:

• Period-correct low output favors clean tones but might feel underpowered for modern gain
• Staggered pole pieces optimize string balance but may need adjustment for flat-radius necks
• Great for vintage tones but less suited to aggressive playing styles

Shop Now: Fender Stratocaster Original '57/'62 Pickup Set

Recreate the golden-era Stratocaster tones with this '57/'62 pickup set, designed for vintage-style clarity and balanced warmth. These pickups feature Formvar-coated magnet wire for a smooth top end and tight bass, while staggered pole pieces ensure even output across all strings. Ideal for classic rock, surf and clean playing styles, these pickups excel in low-gain settings.

Average Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “If you love vintage Strat tone, look no further. These pickups are glassy and full of character, perfect for classic clean sounds.”

Fender Fat '50s Stratocaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Vintage-style tone with boosted bass response for fuller, warmer sound.

Things to Consider:

• Enamel-coated magnet wire adds warmth but can reduce top-end sparkle
• Balanced output suits most playing styles but might not cut through high-gain mixes
• Excellent for players seeking vintage warmth with added low-end depth

Shop Now: Fender Fat '50s Stratocaster Pickup Set

The Fat ’50s set takes vintage tone to new depths with enhanced bass response and balanced mids, making them fuller and warmer than traditional Strat pickups. Enamel-coated wire contributes to their rich sound, while Alnico 5 magnets provide dynamic response. These pickups are excellent for blues, classic rock and jazz players seeking a robust low end.

Average Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups add warmth and richness I didn’t think was possible. Perfect for anyone looking for fat, vintage tones.”

Fender Pure Vintage '65 Stratocaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: True-to-era mid-’60s Strat tone with chime-like highs and lush lows is yours with these Pure Vintage pickups.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico 5 magnets ensure a bright attack but may highlight string noise
• Best suited for vintage-style music and players who favor classic clean tones
• Period-accurate construction may lack modern innovations like noise reduction

Shop Now: Fender Pure Vintage '65 Stratocaster Pickup Set

The Fender Pure Vintage '65 Strat pickup set captures the bright, articulate tones of mid-’60s Stratocasters, offering crisp highs and robust lows. With enamel-coated wire and Alnico 5 magnets, these pickups are perfect for vintage purists who favor clean, bell-like tones. They’re an excellent match for surf rock, classic pop and early blues.

Average Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “Exactly what I wanted for my vintage-inspired Strat build. The tones are chimey, clear and full of life.”

Fender Gen 4 Noiseless Stratocaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Get crystal-clear tone with zero hum, ideal for studio and stage alike.

Things to Consider:

• Noise-canceling design slightly alters the high-end response compared to vintage pickups
• Best for players prioritizing clean, hum-free tones in live or recording environments
• Modern construction may not satisfy purists seeking traditional single-coil character

Shop Now: Fender Gen 4 Noiseless Stratocaster Pickup Set

For players who demand modern clarity with zero hum, the Gen 4 Noiseless Strat pickups are a game-changer. They deliver crystal-clear tone with vintage warmth while eliminating the noise associated with single-coil pickups. Ideal for recording and live performance, these pickups suit players seeking pristine sound for any genre.

Average Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These are hands-down the quietest Strat pickups I’ve ever used. They maintain the classic tone while being completely noiseless.”

Popular Fender Humbucker Pickups

Pickup Model	Magnet Type	Output Level	DC Resistance (kohm)	Tonal Profile
Custom Michael Landau CuNiFe	CuNiFe	Moderate	10.5 (Neck)/10.8 (Bridge)	Warm, vintage sound with modern clarity; wide frequency range
Kingfish Signature Humbucker Set	Alnico V	High	12.3 (Neck)/ 12.5 (Bridge)	Thick, creamy tone with strong sustain; ideal for rock and blues
ShawBucker 2 Humbucking Zebra	Alnico II	Moderate	7.8 (Bridge)	Smooth highs, tight lows; versatile for a range of styles

Fender Custom Shop Michael Landau CuNiFe Wide Range Humbucker

Why It's Cool: CuNiFe magnets deliver vintage warmth with modern clarity, perfect for expressive playing.

Things to Consider:

• Available in neck and bridge models, providing tonal consistency across positions
• CuNiFe magnets offer smooth highs and warm mids but might feel too polite for heavy genres
• Larger-than-standard size may require body modifications on non-Fender guitars

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop Michael Landau CuNiFe Wide Range Humbucker

Crafted to session legend Michael Landau’s specifications, these CuNiFe Wide Range humbuckers provide vintage-inspired warmth with a modern touch of clarity. CuNiFe magnets create smooth highs, detailed mids and balanced lows, making these pickups ideal for expressive blues, jazz and classic rock. Available in both neck and bridge models, they’re perfect for tonal consistency across your setup.

Average Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups offer a perfect balance of vintage tone and modern clarity. My leads have never sounded so smooth and expressive.”

Fender Kingfish Signature Humbucker Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Kingfish’s signature pickups blend creamy sustain and rich dynamics for blues and soul.

Things to Consider:

• Designed for expressive lead tones, with less focus on percussive rhythm sounds
• Perfect for blues and jazz players but may lack the aggression desired for harder rock
• Optimized for versatility in clean and overdriven settings

Shop Now: Fender Kingfish Signature Humbucker Pickup Set

Developed in collaboration with blues sensation Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, the Kingfish Signature Humbucker pickups deliver creamy sustain, rich dynamics and soulful tone. With a focus on warmth and smoothness, the Kingfish Signature humbuckers are great for blues and jazz players who need expressive sound for solos and lush rhythm tones.

Average Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “The Kingfish pickups sing! They’re perfect for bending those bluesy notes and still keep everything articulate.”

Fender ShawBucker 2 Humbucking Zebra Bridge Pickup

Why It's Cool: Balanced tone and high output meet vintage-inspired clarity in this bridge pickup designed for modern players.

Things to Consider:

• The bridge-only configuration pairs well with single-coil neck pickups but limits full humbucker versatility
• Higher output makes it ideal for rock and lead playing but could overwhelm clean settings
• Zebra design adds aesthetic flair, but tonal benefits are the primary focus

Shop Now: Fender ShawBucker 2 Humbucking Zebra Bridge Pickup

Designed by pickup legend Tim Shaw, the ShawBucker 2 offers vintage-inspired humbucker tone with modern performance. This bridge pickup balances high output with clarity, making it a versatile option for rock, blues and fusion styles. The zebra design adds visual flair, while its tone brings definition to overdriven and clean sounds alike.

Average Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “This pickup balances power and detail beautifully. It gives me the drive I need for rock, but it’s never muddy.”

Popular Fender Offset Guitar Pickups

Pickup Model	Magnet Type	Output Level	DC Resistance (kohm)	Tonal Profile
Pure Vintage Jazzmaster Set	Alnico V	Moderate	8.4 (Neck)/8.8 (Bridge)	Clear, warm, and dynamic; vintage Jazzmaster tone
CuNiFe Wide Range Jazzmaster	CuNiFe	Moderate	10.5 (Neck)/10.8 (Bridge)	Bold, articulate tone with extended range
Pure Vintage Jaguar Set	Alnico V	Moderate	6.8 (Neck)/7.2 (Bridge)	Snappy and bright with focused attack; classic Jaguar sound

Fender Pure Vintage Jazzmaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Get authentic Jazzmaster tone with smooth lows and crisp highs for surf, indie and beyond.

Things to Consider:

• Wide, flat coil design creates a unique sound but may not suit players used to standard single coils
• Alnico 5 magnets ensure clarity but can highlight string noise at higher volumes
• Great for clean tones and reverb-heavy playing but may struggle in high-gain settings

Shop Now: Fender Pure Vintage Jazzmaster Pickup Set

The Pure Vintage Jazzmaster pickups deliver the warm lows and articulate highs that made the Jazzmaster a surf and indie rock staple. Designed with wide, flat coils and Alnico 5 magnets, these pickups offer a unique tonal palette with dynamic clarity and depth. Perfect for clean tones and heavy reverb use, they excel in shimmering, atmospheric genres.

Average Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups have that signature Jazzmaster vibe—smooth, dynamic and perfect for my surf rock needs.”

Fender CuNiFe Wide Range Jazzmaster Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Modern refinement meets vintage inspiration in these Jazzmaster pickups with CuNiFe warmth and clarity.

Things to Consider:

• Well-balanced output makes them versatile, but the tone leans more toward warmth than brightness
• CuNiFe magnets add a smooth, musical character but may lack the punch of alnico or ceramic magnets
• Larger size compared to standard Jazzmaster pickups may not fit all guitars without modifications

Shop Now: Fender CuNiFe Wide Range Jazzmaster Pickup Set

Combining the Wide Range humbucker design with Jazzmaster versatility, these CuNiFe pickups offer warm lows, sparkling highs and vintage-inspired balance. The CuNiFe magnets provide smooth tonal character, making them great for expressive lead playing and rhythm work in blues, jazz and alternative genres. Their design ensures compatibility with Jazzmaster setups.

Average Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “Warm, detailed and versatile. These pickups brought my Jazzmaster to life in ways I didn’t expect.”

Fender Pure Vintage Jaguar Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: These unique pickups deliver bright, punchy Jaguar tone with sharp attack and jangly clarity.

Things to Consider:

• Shielded design reduces noise without sacrificing the signature high-end sparkle
• Alnico 5 magnets ensure a crisp, cutting tone but may lack the warmth some players prefer
• Ideal for surf, punk and indie players but less suited for high-gain or thick, warm sounds

Shop Now: Fender Pure Vintage Jaguar Pickup Set

Bright, punchy and jangly, the Pure Vintage Jaguar pickups perfectly capture the tonal character of Fender’s mid-century designs. With Alnico 5 magnets and shielded construction, these pickups reduce noise while preserving the sharp attack and high-end sparkle Jaguars are known for. Perfect for surf, punk and indie players, they shine in clean and lightly overdriven settings.

Average Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups nail that classic Jaguar tone. The clarity and chime are perfect for surf rock and punk.”

Popular Fender Bass Pickups

Pickup Model	Magnet Type	Output Level	DC Resistance (kohm)	Tonal Profile
Custom Shop ‘60s J Bass Set	Alnico V	Moderate	7.2 (Neck)/ 7.4 (Bridge)	Punchy mids, crisp highs; vintage Jazz Bass sound
Custom Shop ‘62 P Bass Set	Alnico V	Moderate	11.4	Warm, fat tone with tight low end
Yosemite PJ Pickup Set	Alnico IV	Moderate	10.2 (Middle)/ 7.8 (Bridge)	Versatile tone; combines P Bass warmth with J Bass clarity

Fender Custom Shop '60s J Bass Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: These vintage-inspired pickups deliver articulate mids and punchy lows for classic Jazz Bass tone.

Things to Consider:

• Alnico 5 magnets deliver dynamic range and clarity but might emphasize highs in some setups
• Period-accurate construction makes them great for vintage enthusiasts but less ideal for modern tones
• Balanced output works well for a variety of genres, from jazz to funk to rock

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop '60s J Bass Pickup Set

The Custom Shop ’60s J Bass pickups bring the articulate mids and punchy lows of vintage Jazz Bass tone to life. With Alnico 5 magnets and enamel-coated wire, these pickups deliver warm, dynamic sound that excels in funk, jazz and rock styles. Their clarity and balance make them a go-to for players seeking the signature growl and punch of a classic J Bass.

Average Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups give my bass the punch and definition I’ve been searching for. They handle slap, fingerstyle and pick playing with ease.”

Fender Custom Shop '62 P Bass Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: Warm, fat Precision Bass tones with the signature thump of the early ’60s are the hallmark of these pickups.

Things to Consider:

• Enamel-coated magnet wire offers rich warmth but may lack extended high-end clarity
• Alnico 5 magnets provide punchy low end, perfect for groove-focused playing styles
• Ideal for players seeking vintage tones but may fall short for more aggressive or modern sounds

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop '62 P Bass Pickup Set

Perfect for vintage enthusiasts, the Custom Shop ’62 P Bass pickups offer warm, fat Precision Bass tone with the signature thump of the early ’60s. Alnico 5 magnets and enamel-coated wire create rich lows and smooth mids, making these pickups ideal for groove-focused players in genres like R&B, blues and classic rock.

Average Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “These pickups nail the classic P Bass sound. The warmth and punch are unmatched, especially for Motown and blues.”

Fender Yosemite PJ Bass Pickup Set

Why It's Cool: This versatile set combines the depth of a P Bass with the clarity of a J Bass.

Things to Consider:

• Blending single-coil and split-coil pickups provides tonal flexibility but requires careful balancing
• Shellac-coated coils reduce feedback while preserving the pickups’ dynamic response
• Perfect for multi-genre players but might feel too modern for those chasing vintage authenticity

Shop Now: Fender Yosemite PJ Bass Pickup Set

The Yosemite PJ Pickup Set combines the depth and power of a P Bass split coil with the clarity and versatility of a J Bass single coil. Shellac-coated coils reduce feedback while preserving dynamic range, making these pickups ideal for multi-genre players who demand tonal flexibility. Perfect for rock, pop and modern styles, this set offers balanced performance across the spectrum.

Average Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Customer Review: “Having the PJ combo gives me all the tones I need for gigs. They’re clear, powerful and super versatile.”

Connecting to Your Sound

Pictured: 1959 Vintage Fender Stratocaster in Sunburst

With all of that said, it seems as if, no matter what electric guitar or bass you play—Strat, Tele, Jaguar, Jazz Bass or even a guitar that wasn't made by Fender—there's a Fender pickup that will be an excellent match for your guitar and your personal style. Considering Fender's over-75-year legacy of innovation in pickup design, that should really come as no surprise. So, stop by your local Guitar Center store and check out some new pickups today. The experienced techs at Guitar Center Repairs can even install them for you, so you don't have to be the one breathing solder fumes (don't worry—our techs all have appropriate air filtration for the job). Or, dial up our call center and talk with your personal Gear Adviser. They'll be glad to help you figure out which Fender pickups are the right ones for you. Then get out and rock (or country, or jazz or soul—whatever music makes you happy).