[Production Example] X100 #004 Stealth ST Pickup
This is production example #004 of the featured project [X100] currently being held at Nekodamari Kobo.
For more information on the X100 project, please click here.
Overview of #004
First off, here is the exterior.
At first glance, it looks like a normal ST pickup, but there's a strange pin stuck in it.
I've been having fun trying different materials for #001 to #003, and this one is made of vulcanized fiber. #004 is also made of a different material, although it's a very ordinary hobbin material.
The odd part is, of course, the strange pin.
Equipped with neodymium magnet pole pieces
General pickups use something called an Alnico magnet, and come in sizes "2," "3," "4," and "5" depending on the degree of magnetic force. "5" is probably the most common.
So you may be wondering, "Do you use magnets other than Alnico magnets?" We sometimes use ceramic magnets. There are almost no examples of magnets other than these, probably because they are not often researched... I would like to try making magnets with all magnets in the future.
Well, this #004 is equipped with a neodymium magnet, which is known as the strongest magnet and is familiar in our daily lives.
You probably haven't heard of a pickup equipped with a neodymium magnet, and the reason for this is that it has a fatal flaw when used with an electric guitar.
If you make and set it up like a normal pickup, the string vibration will die out, and you will end up with a finished product that cannot be used properly.
The strongest magnetic force can attract the guitar strings, resulting in a rare issue where no sound comes out or there is almost no sustain, but we have tried to use this strong magnetic force to our advantage in creating a pickup that will function even from a distance.
In fact, we started making these products as a result of receiving requests. We have also published examples of products that we have made for customers, so please take a look if you are interested.
Usage Situation
You may be wondering, "Where would you use this?" But let's think about it from a romantic and practical perspective.
Romantic viewpoint
First, from a romantic perspective, there is the scenario of hiding it behind the pickguard and using it as a STEALTH pickup.
You can play while making the audience wonder, "Where is that guitar sound coming from?" and making the experts think, "Is that a piezo...? No...it's not...!?"
The downside is that in order to achieve this romanticism, a new pickguard will need to be made.
A practical perspective
Let's think about this from a practical perspective. If you throw away the romanticism, the points where you can use it will be extremely limited, but this time #004 is made in the center position.
The aim was that, depending on the performer, the centre position of an ST guitar may get in the way when playing.
Even if you don't use it, some people think it would look bad to remove it, so I think there are some people who have it set up in a really low position.
In that situation, installing a Stealth like #004 creates a special setting that allows you to use the center position sound while being in a position that doesn't get in the way when playing.
The only downside is that the Stealth color seems to have a significant impact on the mixed sound.
Disadvantages of neodymium magnets
As mentioned earlier, the magnetic force is so strong that it will have a negative effect if it is not set up with sufficient distance.
If you set it up like a regular pickup, it will produce a metallic sound like a sitar, which is interesting in itself, but please note that it is not a typical pickup.
If you keep a distance, it probably depends on the equipment, but I have the impression that you can get a surprisingly clean sound.
Since the composition of the magnetic field is unknown, the pole pieces are arranged at an angle to make it easier to pick up string vibrations. The pole pieces are also made small, and the coil resistance is adjusted so that it does not become excessively high.
The design intent is to make it possible to operate it even when it is under the pickguard, but please note that the counterbore space may differ depending on the equipment used, so there may be no room for adjustment.
Digression and Summary #004 Spec Introduction
Now, #004 has a special specification.
There are almost no reference examples, so only those who have tried it know what kind of sound it produces. I think it's interesting, so if you're interested, please consider it.
We are also planning to produce a TL neck position with similar specifications.
This is a single item and does not come with a stand or packaging.
Please note that the item will be sold in simple packaging.
#004 Specs
| Compatible models | ST type, for center, single item |
| Hobin Material | Vulcanized Fiber |
| magnet | Neodymium magnets |
| Copper wire | Green enamel 0.050mm |
| Lead | Cross Wire |
| Potting Treatment |
Low noise, mid-reinforced potting Additional potting for noise reduction and mid-strength |
| Special Craftsmanship | Diagonal pole piece arrangement |
| specification | Pickup coverless stealth specification |
| Resistance value |
6.35k |
| accessories |
Spec sheet, simple packaging |
| 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 details. |
| Sales Information |
Available at Nekodamari Kobo's online store Sales price: 12,100 yen (tax and shipping included) |
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
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