28/04/2018
OUTPUT.
Pickups generally fall into three broad output ranges: low, medium and high. (Captain Obvious has spoken)
Low output or vintage spec pickups (Dirty Deeds, Vanilla Fudge etc) are usually based on alnico magnets and 42 gauge wire, with either plain enamel or poly insulation. They tend to have increased treble and a slightly scooped midrange. They're the pickups of choice for blues and classic rock.
Medium output pickups (DMT medium, Passive/Aggressive) are usually based on alnico magnets and 43 gauge wire but ceramic magnets are not uncommon. They tend to have increased bass and midrange with smoother high end. They're also a little tighter and more compressed. They retain the best qualities of lower and higher output pickups and are often the best choice for versatile tones that require good dynamic response as well as being able to push an amp into overdrive. These are great for many styles from dirty blues rock to punk and metal.
High output pickups (DMT High, Dr Feelgood, The Gimp) are usually based on alnico or quite often ceramic magnets and 44 or 45 gauge wire. They're the most compressed and tightest feeling pickups and may trade off some dynamic response in favour of precision and power. These are the go-to guys for metal, hardcore punk, crust, doom and sludge.
It's almost always advisable to use a matching neck pickup with less power, since the bass and mids may become a little overbearing given the physical location of the pickup and the larger string oscillations.
Hope this quick guide helps you make an informed decision when ordering your pups!
