Setting the correct pickup height is crucial for achieving the best tone from your electric guitar. As a general guideline, a good starting point for the bridge pickup height is 3/32 of an inch (2.38mm) from the strings when pressed at the last fret.
For the neck pickup, the height can be adjusted to either match the output of the bridge pickup or to achieve a specific tonal balance when used in combination.
Why Pickup Height Matters:
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Too close to the strings: The pickup can cause the tone to become muddy, with a lack of clarity and definition.
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Too far from the strings: The output may sound thin and weak, lacking the character and fullness desired in a well-balanced tone.
Each pickup has a unique “sweet spot” where it delivers optimal performance based on the guitar's build and the pickup type. Experimenting with small height adjustments can help you find the best tone for your specific setup.
Check out this article to learn more about setting your pickup height the Seymour Duncan way: Adjusting Pickup Height