Do All Gibson Electric Guitars Have Humbuckers?

No, not all Gibson electric guitars come with humbuckers. While humbuckers have become synonymous with Gibson, particularly with models like the Les Paul and SG, there are other pickup options available that can offer unique tonal characteristics.

Humbuckers: The Standard Pickups of Gibson

Humbuckers, developed by Gibson's engineer Seth Lover in 1955, first appeared on Gibson guitars in 1957. These pickups are known for their ability to suppress hum and produce full, warm tones. However, they are not the only option found in Gibson guitars.

P-90 Pickups: A Sweet Full Tone Alternative

Another type of pickup found on some Gibson electrics is the P-90. Unlike humbuckers, P-90s are single coil pickups with more windings than most other single coils. This design gives them a sweet, full tone that many professional guitarists prefer over humbuckers. The P-90s are known for their clear, bright sound and can be heard in a variety of genres, from rock to country.

Lesser-Expensive Models with P-90s

Even in lesser-expensive models from Gibson, such as the Les Paul Special and the SG Special, P-90 pickups are still used. These guitars offer a different tonal experience compared to their humbucker-equipped counterparts, with a much-loved, vintage tone that many players appreciate.

Historic Use of P-90s

Interestingly, even as Gibson introduced humbuckers, they continued to use P-90s in many of their less expensive models, such as the Les Paul Junior and the ES-125, an archtop guitar. This choice allowed for a more accessible tonal option while still maintaining the classic sound that many players seek.

Other Brands with P-90s

It's important to note that the P-90 is not exclusive to Gibson. This pickup type can be found on guitars from other manufacturers as well. For example, the Gibson ES-335 once came with P-90 pickups, showcasing the versatility and popularity of this pickup type.

Problems and Considerations with P-90s

While P-90s are beloved by many guitarists, they are not without their drawbacks. One significant issue is the loud buzz they can produce, especially at higher amp gain levels. This noise can detract from the player's experience and contribute to feedback issues.

Lower-end Models with Single Coils Similar to Fender Strats

Additionally, some lower-end Gibson guitars, such as the Melody Maker, came with single-coil pickups similar to those found on Fender Strats. This design choice offers a different tonal palette, with clarity and brightness reminiscent of Fender's offerings. However, the Melody Maker is no longer in production, making it a sought-after vintage option.

In conclusion, while humbuckers are a hallmark of Gibson guitars, the presence of P-90 pickups and other options like single coils from other brands demonstrates the versatility of pickups in electric guitars. Whether you prefer the warmth of humbuckers or the clarity of P-90s, there is a model for every guitarist looking to achieve their perfect sound.