Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Ordering

How long will it take to make my pickups?

All pickups are made to order. Please see the banner at the top of the home page for my current lead time.

Do you offer custom pickup builds?

Yes. I offer core models, which are tried and tested pickup sets (single pickups from those sets also available). I' m also able to offer custom builds, which is a pickup, or pickup set customised to your specific needs (after a short consultation to match your guitar, rig, playing style, and tone goals).

What’s the difference between a core model and a custom build?

Core models are repeatable, proven winds with a clear voicing goal. Custom builds include a back-and-forth consultation where we decide on things like output, balance between positions, and the overall “feel” before I build your pickup(s).

Can I order a single pickup instead of a full set?

Yes. Many models are available as single pickups as well as sets.

Can I request different options?

Yes. For my core, shop models various adjustments can be made before the build starts. These include the following options:

Magnet stagger - Choose from staggered, or flat pole pieces (staggered is usually better for 7.25" and 9.5" fretboard radius. Flat pole pieces are usually better for fretboard's which are 10" or flatter. If you're a left handed player and want staggered poles, please let us know, and we'll reverse the stagger.

Pole piece spacing on pickups for Stratocasters - Neck pickup has 50mm pole spacing. Bridge and middle pickups have 52mm pole spacing (many pickup covers are only available as 52mm).

RWRP - Magnetisation/Wind Direction can be customised for individual single coil pickup purchases. Generally Speaking we wind them as listed below, but this can be changed upon request:

- Neck: South Up/Clockwise

- Middle: North Up/Counter Clockwise

- Bridge: South Up/Clockwise

What if I’m not sure which core model to choose?

Send me a message with:

• your guitar (type + any notable mods)

• amp and main pedals

• the tones you’re chasing (players/songs/albums welcome)

• what you feel is missing now (more clarity, less ice-pick, more push, tighter bass, etc.).…and I’ll point you to the best fit.

Custom Builds

How does a custom build work?

You place an order for the relevant custom pickup type (Strat / Tele / Mustang / Humbucker etc.). Then we’ll have a quick consultation (message/email) to lock in:

• your tone target (including references)

• output level and feel

• whether you want a balanced set or a hero position (e.g., bridge-focused) with supporting pickups

Once the spec is agreed, I wind and finish the pickup(s) to order.

Can you voice a set to sound like a specific player / song / album?

Yes — references are welcome. I’ll use them as a directional target, while still factoring in your guitar, amp, and playing style so it works in your setup.

Can each position have a different voice?

Yes. You can go for:

• Versatile set: each position voiced differently (e.g., glassy neck, punchy middle, hotter bridge). Please be aware, this may require adjustment of amp and pedal settings, to get the required sound..... Due to that we also offer:

• Balanced set: consistent output and EQ across positions

• Hero position: one pickup is the main focus, the other pickups in the set complement it

Do you offer advice on pickup height and setup?

Yes. Pickup height makes a big difference to brightness, output, and dynamics. I’m happy to guide you after installation.

Compatibility and Specs

Are these pickups made in the UK?

Yes — all pickups are hand-wound and manufactured by me in the UK.

Will your Strat pickups fit my guitar?

Yes, most pickups have reasonably standardised pole spacing, and housing. If you have something truly out of the ordinary, please get in touch with me before ordering at hello@toneaddictpickups.co.uk

Do you offer different magnet types / wires / voicings?

Yes. Different magnets, magnet wire, bobbin construction, and coil geometry can shift feel and EQ (attack, mids, brightness, compression). Core models have a defined voicing; customs can be tailored.

Do you offer RWRP for hum-cancelling in positions 2 & 4 (Strat)?

• Most core / off-the-shelf models are RWRP by default, so positions 2 & 4 are hum-cancelling on standard Strat wiring. If a core / off-the-shelf model is not RWRP it will be stated on the product page. For custom builds, the customer will choose whether the set is RWRP or non-RWRP.

Are your pickups wax potted?

• Most models are fully wax potted unless otherwise stated on the product page. The level of wax potting can be specified for custom builds.

Do you make left-handed / reverse-wound / special configurations?

• Yes. Unfortunately, due to the way Wix Stores handle product variants, this cannot be selected when ordering pickup(s). If you're a leftie, please email me at the time of making the order, to request a left handed set - please contact me at hello@toneaddictpickups.co.uk

Lead Times

What’s the lead time for core models?

Please see the banner at the top of the home page for my current lead time.

What’s the lead time for custom builds?

Custom builds require a short consultation first. Once the spec is agreed, I’ll confirm your build time. Typically a couple of weeks longer than the current lead time.

Shipping

Do you ship across the UK?

Yes. Shipping to customers in the UK is free of charge.

Do you ship internationally?

• Yes — international shipping is available to selected destinations and shown at checkout.

• If your country isn’t listed, contact me and I’ll see what I can do.

Do you provide tracking?

• Yes — tracked shipping is available

Returns and Warranty

Do you accept returns?

Core models: Returns accepted within 14 days of delivery if unused/undamaged.

Custom builds: because they are made to order they are non-returnable unless faulty. However, I will work with you to assure you are not dissatisfied with your pickups. It may be possible to exchange them for you - this is judged on a case by case basis.

What if there’s an issue or fault?

If something isn’t right, contact me and I’ll work with you to resolve it. Typically this period is 12 months, but if there is an issue outside of this time period, please get in touch so that I can help you, I may still be able to replace the pickup(s), or repair them. This does not apply to accidental damage, and only applies to faults where the pickups have not been misused.

Installation and Support

Do you install pickups?

• I currently sell pickups for customer/builder installation. I can recommend basic wiring guidance and setup tips.

Can you recommend pots/caps/wiring schemes?

Yes — if you tell me what you’re building and what tones you want, I can suggest sensible options.