Z-Core™ 5
For players who prefer traditional single coil tones.
The Z-Core 5 family
Our Z-Core 5 family of pickups utilize Tone Tuning Technology™ to mimic the frequency response of AlNiCo 5, the magnet alloy that is most closely associated with the classic Strat® tone. The 5 voicing is the most open and transparent, giving that signature, glassy Strat quack in the in between positions and a nice, open, “woody” response in the neck and that classic Strat snap in the bridge. 5 voiced pickups at various output levels are featured across our line and are our primary choice for a classically Stratty tone.
Of course this is why we chose the 5 voicing as our first product family in the Z-Core line. We’ve also reworked our output levels to provide more options in the vintage output range than we’ve ever had before. And as a result of our re-engineered Z-Series platform, these lower output models match conventional vintage pickup specs almost exactly, making them 100% compatible with conventional Strat controls. They drop right in! Our Z-Core 5 vintage output models include the mid-scooped low output feel of the Vintage Underwound, the Vintage with a few more winds like they did in the early/mid 60s and the Vintage Hot with more of a "boutique" take on the vintage feel, with that little bit of extra juice that a lot of players crave.
Then we have Z-Core 5 analogs of our Legacy Series SV5 and SV5O with the Modern and Overwound models, respectively. These pickups are excellent to pair with our higher output humbucker-voiced models, and in higher output single voiced sets like our Z-Series Texas Blues Set.
Click on product names below for a more detailed description.
Please note:
International shipping has been significantly affected by the pandemic. Please review the International Shipping page.
Pickups may take 2-3 weeks before ready for shipment.
Lefties are considered special orders and may take up to 3 weeks before ready for shipment.
Left-handed "Z-Core" pickups are only available from the Custom Shop. If you want this feature for a set, here is an option.
Z-Series pickups have their covers potted on. Removal will void the warranty.
Cover color choice is presented at checkout.
All of our pickups are made to order and with fixed cover (pickups potted in their covers) Z-Series/Z-Core models, orders placed will be built with covers selected at checkout and color changes will be subject to a $10 restock fee, $25.00 for a set of three.
International shipping has been significantly affected by the pandemic. Please review the International Shipping page.