Understanding the Protective Tape on Guitar Pickups: When and How to Remove It

As a guitarist, you may have encountered that protective clear tape on the top of your guitar's pickups and wondered whether you should remove it. In this article, we will dive into the details of what this tape is, its purpose, and when and how it should be removed. This information is crucial for maintaining the quality and performance of your instrument.

Manufacturer’s Protective Tape

When you unwrap your new guitar, you’ll likely see a protective clear tape on the top surface of the pickups. This tape is typically applied by the manufacturer to prevent metal dust and other contaminants from settling on the pickups and affecting their magnetic fields. This protective layer is generally easy to remove without damaging the pickups. Once you own the guitar and it is no longer in transit, you can carefully peel this tape off.

Side Wrapping Tape for Protection

Another common type of tape you might encounter is the black cloth or black electrical tape wrapped around the sides of the pickups. This tape is designed to prevent debris and other foreign matter from entering the coil windings, which can potentially cause issues with the pickup's performance. This tape should remain in place as it serves a protective function.

Other Protective Materials

Besides the clear tape and black wrapping tape, there are occasional instances of additional protective materials used. For example, there may be a thin layer of plastic protecting the bobbin, which is a component of the pickup. If the bobbin is exposed and you see thin, clear plastic covering it, this is also a protective measure for shipping and can be removed.

Common Pickup Components

In some cases, you might find black tape wrapped around the sides of pickup coils. This tape is commonly found in uncovered pickups and serves to protect the windings from damage during shipping. Again, this tape should be left in place as it provides necessary protection.

Conclusion

In summary, if you have a thin, clear protective tape on the top of your guitar's pickups, it is safe and even advisable to remove it once your instrument is no longer in transit. On the other hand, any tape or wrapping that is wrapped around the sides of the pickups, especially the black tape, should remain in place to provide ongoing protection.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your guitar pickups stay in optimal condition, enhancing your playing experience and the overall performance of your instrument.