Guitarists are constantly on the hunt for the perfect tone, and pickups play a crucial role in achieving it. That’s why there’s always a buzz about new pickups hitting the market, with players eager to test them out and hear what they can do. The Wilkinson M Series pickups are no exception – guitarists are wondering, are Wilkinson M Series pickups any good?
To answer that question, we need to take a closer look at what these pickups are all about. The M Series pickups are designed to offer a high-quality, vintage-inspired sound that’s perfect for a range of different playing styles. They feature classic Alnico V magnets and a range of advanced features, including wax potting and vintage-style wiring. But the big question remains – do these pickups actually deliver on their promise of rich, dynamic tone?
To find out, we’ll need to put the Wilkinson M Series pickups to the test. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an up-and-comer looking to upgrade your sound, these pickups are definitely worth considering. So let’s dive in and see for ourselves – are Wilkinson M Series pickups any good?
Wilkinson vs. Other Pickup Brands
Wilkinson pickups have been gaining traction in the music industry due to their affordability and high-quality sound. However, some musicians are still skeptical and wonder how they compare to other pickup brands. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between Wilkinson and some of the most popular pickup brands in the market.
- Fender: Fender pickups are known for their vintage sound and quality, but they can be expensive. Wilkinson, on the other hand, offers a similar sound at a more affordable price point.
- Seymour Duncan: Seymour Duncan is another popular brand for pickups, but they tend to lean towards a higher output sound. Wilkinson pickups have a more balanced tone, making them a great alternative for musicians who prefer a more well-rounded sound.
- EMG: EMG pickups are a popular choice for metal and hard rock musicians due to their high output sound. However, they can be expensive and may not be suitable for other genres. Wilkinson pickups offer a more versatile sound that can be used across multiple genres.
Overall, Wilkinson pickups offer a great value for their price and a well-rounded sound that can compete with many higher-end pickup brands. While they may not be the best fit for every musician’s specific sound preferences, they are worth considering for those looking for a quality sound at an affordable price.
If you’re still unsure which brand to choose, it’s important to try out various pickups and see which one fits your playing style and genre the best. Whatever your choice may be, always remember to prioritize the sound and quality over the brand name.
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between Wilkinson and some of the other popular pickup brands:
| Brand | Tone | Price | Output |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilkinson | Well-balanced | Affordable | Moderate |
| Fender | Vintage | Expensive | Moderate |
| Seymour Duncan | High output | Moderate to expensive | High |
| EMG | High output | Expensive | Very high |
It’s also worth considering that pickups can only do so much, and the overall quality of your sound will ultimately depend on factors such as your amp, guitar, and playing style. However, choosing the right pickups can make a significant difference, especially if you’re on a budget.
The Tone and Sound of M Series Pickups
Wilkinson’s M series pickups are designed to bring out the best in your instrument, no matter what style of music you play. They are renowned for their clarity and definition, allowing every note to shine through. Here are some key features of their tone and sound:
- High output with a bright, clear tone
- Rich harmonics and sustain
- Balanced frequency response across all strings
If you’re looking for a pickup that can handle anything from clean chords to distorted leads, the M series is a great choice. They have a distinctive voice that sets them apart from other pickups on the market.
One of the things that makes the M series pickups stand out is their use of a ceramic magnet. Ceramic magnets are known for their high output and brightness, which help to give these pickups their clear, powerful tone. They also have a relatively flat frequency response, meaning that each string is represented equally in the pickup’s output.
Another factor that contributes to the M series’ tone is the way they are wound. Wilkinson uses a unique winding pattern that ensures even output across all strings. This means that you won’t experience any volume drops or tonal imbalances when playing chords or single notes.
If you’re curious about the specific sound of each pickup in the M series, here’s a breakdown:
| Pickup | Tone |
|---|---|
| WMH | High output with a slightly scooped midrange |
| WMS | Full-bodied with a balanced frequency response |
| WMB | Bright and articulate with a strong low end |
Overall, the M series pickups are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a versatile, high-output pickup that can handle a variety of playing styles. Their clarity and even response make them a favorite among guitarists who demand the best tone possible.
The History of Wilkinson Pickups
Wilkinson pickups are some of the most highly regarded pickups in the guitar world. They are known for their exceptional tone, clarity, and reliability. But where did these pickups come from, and how did they become so popular?
Let’s go back to the beginning.
- In the early 1970s, a British guitarist named Trevor Wilkinson began tinkering with guitar pickups in his workshop.
- At the time, most pickups were either single-coil or humbucker designs, and they were often unreliable and inconsistent.
- Wilkinson was determined to create a better pickup, one that would offer both the clarity and twang of a single-coil and the warmth and sustain of a humbucker.
After much experimentation, Wilkinson developed what is now known as the “stacked-coil” pickup, which consists of two coils stacked vertically on top of each other. This design allowed for the clarity and twang of a single-coil pickup, while also providing the warmth and sustain of a humbucker.
This breakthrough design caught the attention of many guitar players, and Wilkinson pickups began to gain popularity in the 1980s and 1990s.
Today, Wilkinson pickups are used by some of the most famous guitar players in the world, including Jeff Beck, John Mayer, and Eric Clapton. They are renowned for their unique tone and reliable performance, and they continue to be a top choice for guitar players of all genres and styles.
The Advantages of Wilkinson Pickups
- Exceptional tone and clarity: Wilkinson pickups are known for their rich, full sounds and clear high-end.
- Versatility: The stacked-coil design of Wilkinson pickups allows for a wide range of tones, making them ideal for a variety of musical styles.
- Reliability: Wilkinson pickups are built to last, and they are consistently reliable even under heavy use.
Comparing Wilkinson Pickups to other Brands
When it comes to guitar pickups, there are many brands to choose from. However, few can match the quality and reliability of Wilkinson pickups.
| Brand | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Wilkinson | Exceptional tone and clarity, versatility, reliability | None |
| Seymour Duncan | Wide range of models, excellent tone | Some models can be pricey, may not be as reliable as Wilkinson |
| DiMarzio | Well-regarded for high-gain applications, excellent tone | Some models may not be as versatile as Wilkinson pickups |
Overall, while there are many great options out there when it comes to guitar pickups, Wilkinson pickups’ unique design and high-quality construction make them stand out from the competition.
What Musicians Think of M Series Pickups
M series pickups by Wilkinson have been making waves in the music industry because of their exceptional sound quality. Musicians, specifically guitarists, have mixed opinions about these pickups with some praising them for their excellent performance, while others prefer other pickups in the market.
- Some musicians love the M series pickups because of their versatility. They are ideal for various musical genres, including rock, jazz, blues, and heavy metal. This universality makes them a top pick for musicians who play different genres of music.
- Multiple reviews online reveal that the M series pickups are high-output and provide a high level of gain. This feature makes them a preferred choice for musicians who love to exaggerate their playing style with gain and distortion.
- Another feature that musicians praise M Series pickups for is their strong magnetic field. This trait provides a broader tonal range, and musicians can achieve different tones by merely adjusting their playing style. This feature makes them suitable for musicians who love to experiment with different sounds.
Conversely, other musicians prefer other pickups in the market to M Series pickups for one reason or the other. Some prefer more vintage-style pickups while others shy away from high-output pickups. However, one thing remains constant; M series pickups have earned their place among the best pickups in the music industry, and their quality is not up for debate.
In conclusion, M series pickups by Wilkinson are an excellent choice for musicians who value versatility, high-output, and a strong magnetic field. Although they may not be the preferred choice for everyone, they certainly hold their own ground in the market, and their quality remains top-notch.
If you are looking for new pickups to improve your guitar’s sound quality, the M Series pickups are worth considering.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile and ideal for various genres | May not be preferred by musicians who love vintage-style pickups |
| High-output and provides high gain | May not be preferred by musicians who prefer low-output pickups |
| Strong magnetic field that provides a broader tonal range | May not be preferred by musicians who prefer a narrower tonal range |
If you’re still unsure if M Series pickups are for you, we recommend trying them out for yourself to see if they fit your style of playing. Ultimately, the best pickups are a matter of personal preference, and what works for one musician may not work for another. However, M Series pickups are undoubtedly worth considering when shopping for new guitar pickups.
Upgrading Your Guitar with M Series Pickups
Upgrading the pickups on your guitar can be a game changer when it comes to tone and playability. The Wilkinson M series pickups are a great option for those looking to upgrade their guitar’s sound. Here are some reasons why:
- The M series pickups are designed to capture the true essence of vintage tone, making them perfect for anyone looking to achieve that classic sound.
- These pickups have a high output, making them perfect for anyone who wants a little more punch and clarity in their sound.
- The M series pickups are incredibly versatile, making them a great option for players of all genres and styles.
If you’re interested in upgrading your guitar with M series pickups, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure that the pickups are compatible with your guitar’s electronics and wiring. If you’re not comfortable doing the installation yourself, it’s always best to take your guitar to a professional.
Here are a few tips to get the most out of your M series pickups:
- Experiment with the height and placement of the pickups to find the sweet spot for your desired sound.
- Pair your M series pickups with a high-quality amplifier and cables to really let the tone shine.
- Consider using a booster or overdrive pedal to push the pickups into overdrive for even more distortion.
If you’re interested in learning more about the M series pickups, take a look at this comparison table:
| Pickup Model | Output | Tone | Versatility |
|---|---|---|---|
| MWT | High | Warm and full | Blues, rock, and metal |
| MVS | Medium | Crisp and clear | Pop, jazz, and country |
| MWP | High | Bright and cutting | Punk, metal, and hard rock |
No matter which M series pickups you choose, upgrading your guitar with these pickups is a great way to take your sound to the next level.
The Construction and Design of M Series Pickups
Wilkinson has long been a trusted brand in the music industry, known for their high-quality guitar pickups. With their M Series Pickups, Wilkinson has continued to uphold their reputation for excellence. But what sets these pickups apart from others on the market? Here, we’ll take a closer look at their construction and design.
Design Features
- The M Series Pickups are designed to minimize noise and interference, resulting in a clean and clear sound.
- They feature Alnico V magnets, which provide a warm and classic tone.
- The pickups are wound using high-quality copper wire, which further enhances their tonal characteristics.
Construction
The M Series Pickups are carefully crafted with attention to detail. Each pickup is hand-wound by experienced technicians, ensuring consistency in quality and tone. The pickup casing is made of durable and lightweight materials, which reduces unwanted feedback and vibration.
Additionally, the M Series Pickups have adjustable pole pieces, allowing the player to fine-tune the height of each string for optimal tone and clarity. This feature also facilitates easy string tracking and intonation adjustments.
Technical Specifications
The table below outlines the technical specifications of the M Series Pickups:
| Pickup Type | Resistance | Inductance | Magnet Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Coil | 6.0k | 2.2H | Alnico V |
| Hum-Cancelling | 9.0k | 4.0H | Alnico V |
Overall, the construction and design of Wilkinson’s M Series Pickups provide musicians with a reliable and high-quality option for enhancing their guitar’s sound. Whether you’re playing rhythm guitar in a band or looking to record your own music, these pickups offer exceptional tonal characteristics and performance.
Troubleshooting common issues with M series pickups
Wilkinson M series pickups are known for their quality sound and reliable performance. However, like any other type of pickup, issues can arise that affect the overall sound and playability of your guitar. In this article, we will discuss the most common issues you may encounter with M series pickups and provide some troubleshooting tips to help you get the most out of your guitar.
- Weak or low output: A common issue with M series pickups is a weak or low output. This can be caused by several factors, including a loose connection or a faulty pickup. To troubleshoot this issue, check all connections and wiring to ensure that everything is secure and properly connected. If the issue persists, you may need to replace the pickup.
- Noise/hum: Another issue you may encounter with M series pickups is unwanted noise or hum. This can be caused by a number of factors, including poor grounding or a high-gain amplifier. To troubleshoot this issue, check all grounding connections and ensure that everything is properly connected. You may also want to try using a noise gate or adjusting the settings on your amplifier.
- Inconsistent tone: If you notice that your guitar’s tone is inconsistent across different pickups or settings, this may be due to a problem with the pickup’s wiring or the guitar’s electronics. To troubleshoot this issue, check all wiring connections and ensure that everything is properly grounded. You may also want to consider upgrading your guitar’s electronics to improve overall performance.
If you are experiencing any of these issues with your M series pickups, it is important to take the time to properly troubleshoot the problem before making any changes or replacements. By doing so, you can ensure that you are getting the best possible performance from your guitar and pickups.
For more information on troubleshooting common issues with M series pickups, consult a trusted guitar technician or seek out online resources and forums for guitar enthusiasts.
Are Wilkinson M Series Pickups Any Good FAQs
1. What are Wilkinson M Series pickups?
Wilkinson M Series pickups are a line of single-coil pickups manufactured by Wilkinson, a well-respected company in the music industry. They are designed to provide clear and bright tones, making them ideal for styles like country, pop, and funk.
2. How do Wilkinson M Series pickups differ from other pickups?
Compared to other pickups in the market, Wilkinson M Series pickups have a unique design that allows them to produce brighter and crisper tones, making them stand out from the rest.
3. Are Wilkinson M Series pickups easy to install?
Yes, Wilkinson M Series pickups are easy to install, and they fit well on most guitar models without requiring any major modifications.
4. What is the price range of Wilkinson M Series pickups?
Wilkinson M Series pickups fall within an affordable price range, making them accessible for musicians who are looking to upgrade their guitar’s sound without breaking the bank.
5. Are Wilkinson M Series pickups suitable for electric guitars?
Yes, Wilkinson M Series pickups are compatible with an electric guitar and are specifically designed to enhance the guitar’s output.
6. Do Wilkinson M Series pickups come with a warranty?
Yes, Wilkinson provides a lifetime warranty for its M Series pickups, ensuring that you receive quality products that last a long time.
7. How do Wilkinson M Series pickups sound when played live?
Wilkinson M Series pickups sound great when played live, providing a bright, clear sound that cuts through the mix and stands out.
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