[Production Example] X100 #003 TL Pickup with a Mysterious Pattern
This is production example #003 of the featured project [X100] currently being held at Nekodamari Kobo.
For more information on the X100 project, please click here.
#003 Overview
First off, here is the exterior.
I personally think that there are probably very few people who have seen this material, but it is a mysterious material.
Of course, this is not your typical vulcanized fiber.
Special shell-like resin material
Leaving aside the details, the main feature is that it is a resin material with a pattern and a shine like a shell. Why did I use this? Naturally, I chose it for its looks.
There are decorations called inlays on guitar fretboards, and they are sometimes made from shells. (There are many different types, so I'll just give a rough summary.)
I would like to make it using actual shells, but I would like you to imagine that the only flat shell I can think of is a scallop. Even scallops are bumpy.
Since shells are often curved, I think that for inlay processing etc. they are often made by gluing together thin sliced sheets to form boards.
When it comes to sheets, there isn't much thick material, and thick shells cannot be cut into pieces the size required for pick-up, and the ones that are large enough to be picked are bent, so this is the material we found after much difficulty.
This is also a difficult material to handle... It is several times more difficult to make than vulcanized fiber. Since the pattern is created by mixing pearl pigments, it is prone to cracking and chipping, which can be a real pain for craftsmen, but the romance of it takes precedence.
As for whether it has any durability issues, I don't think there are any problems in practical use.
Once the pickup is completed, it is unlikely to cause any problems during normal use. If the pickup is damaged by an impact, other parts may also be damaged. However, we recommend that you install the pickup carefully.
While we pursued a playful look, the sound making is traditional. We used Alnico 5 and heavy formvar to create a slightly modest resistance.
It also uses a noise-resistant potting process, so it is highly resistant to feedback.
The difference with the general TL is that there is no copper plate on the back of the bridge. Therefore, it may be better to think of it as slightly closer to the ST type.
This was installed after the photo was taken, so it is not shown in the photo, but to prevent damage, the bridge is attached by gluing a nut without threading the hobbing.
I think the pattern might not be visible very well so I'll post some reference photos.
It takes on various expressions depending on the lighting and the way you look at it.
Special craftsmanship: Non-contact processing of copper wire
It uses the non-contact processing that appeared in #001.
Since the content is duplicated, please check article #001.
Digression and Summary #003 Spec Introduction
Now, #003 is a TL pickup, and this one also has no cover.
Although it has a unique appearance, the inside is made to standard specifications.
The coverless design allows for non-contact processing and standard thick copper wire to coexist.
The resistance value is also modest, so it gives the impression of being a standard, excellent specification.
When combined with Alnico 5, it has excellent sound response, and the potting process has been selected to slightly enhance the mids.
I have the impression that there aren't many TL pickups with unusual designs, so I think this one turned out quite interesting.
#003 Spec
| Compatible models | TL type neck/bridge 1 set |
| Hobin Material | Seashell-like resin material |
| magnet | Alnico 5 flat pole piece |
| Copper wire | Heavy Form Bar 0.063mm |
| Lead | Cross Wire |
| Potting Treatment | Low noise, mid-reinforced potting |
| Special Craftsmanship | Contactless processing of copper wire |
| specification | No pickup cover, bridge only RWRP (reverse wound, reverse magnetized) |
| Resistance value |
Neck 5.43kg Bridge 5.84k |
| accessories |
Base, spec sheet, package, mounting screws, spring |
| Warranty details |
Free repairs for breakdowns caused by normal use Other features are the same as regular commercially available products. |
| Notes |
-There may be unavoidable scratches and scuffs due to the manufacturing process. -The dimensions are based on general standards, but please check the dimensions listed on the sales page before purchasing. ・Pickups are delicate parts and require specialized knowledge to handle. Please ask a professional to modify or install them, or do so at your own risk. ・If you have any questions regarding installation, please contact us using the inquiry form. ・As this is a prototype, the specifications, such as packaging, appearance, and engraved information on the back, may differ from those of the officially sold product. ・In principle, we can only accept one item, but if you would like a similar pickup, we may be able to accommodate your request as a semi-order. Please contact us for more details. |
| Sales Information |
Available at Nekodamari Kobo's online store Sales price: 18,700 yen (tax and shipping included) |
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Contact Us – Nekodamari Kobo Direct Online Store (nekodamari.work)
Nekodamari Kobo Co., Ltd.