The Steel Guitar Forum

What is the proper pickup height for a Mullen Single coil pickup for a Mullen G2? My Mullen doesnt seem to put out a lot of volume compared to my other guitars and I noticed the pickup height was noticeably higher than my others. That may not have anything to do with the issue but I figured I would start there and make sure my pickup height is correct then go from there. Any input is greatly appreciated.

Craig

If it's higher than your others - ad is th same construction, specially magnet type - it should be louder. But if it's TOO close the magnetic pull can actually throw the strings out of tune!

The proper height is whatever gives you optimum output without tuning issues. There IS no specific distance from the strings that is correct. It depends on the specific pickup, string type (stainless, nickel plated steel, pure nickel wrap) and your own level of pick attack.

In some cases the amplifier, volume level and position in relation to the guitar makes different pickup heights sound better or worse.

Get with Mike at Mullen. He can tell you where they set them when they’re built.

We set them about the thickness of 2 quarters. Seems to be a good setting.

Mike, I don't have any quarters???

Ask your beautiful wife

To bad you don't have any quarters handy.
If you happen to have a Dial Caliper or other precision measuring tool. The thickness of 2 U.S. Quarters stacked together is .135 ( One Hundred Thirty Five Thousands of an inch.) or 3.429 MM.
Hope this will help you get your guitar set up, Happy Steelin.

Bobby D. Jones wrote:...The thickness of 2 U.S. Quarters stacked together is .135 ( One Hundred Thirty Five Thousands of an inch.) or 3.429 MM....

Or if you call it an eighth of an inch, you'll be close enough for country music.

--Al Evans

I raised my pickups to 1 quarter length and that really helped. The guitar has more bite, volume and is able to cut through the mix.

Thanks everyone for the input.

Craig