Few pieces of guitar gear have achieved the legendary status of the PAF pickup. Originally introduced by Gibson in the 1950s, the “Patent Applied For” (PAF) pickup has become a hallmark of rich, vintage tone and an essential component in the sound of countless iconic records. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the evolution of the PAF pickup, from its inception to its lasting legacy in the modern guitar world.
What Is a PAF Pickup?
The PAF pickup, short for “Patent Applied For,” was Gibson’s first humbucking pickup. Designed by Seth Lover in the mid-1950s, the PAF was created to address the hum and noise issues associated with single-coil pickups while delivering a warm, dynamic tone. Gibson applied for a patent on the design in 1955, and the “Patent Applied For” sticker became an iconic mark of these pickups, hence the name.
The Birth of the PAF (1955–1957)
Inception:
The PAF pickup was developed as a response to the growing demand for noise-free pickups. Seth Lover’s innovative design utilized two coils wired in opposite polarity and phase to cancel out hum, a concept that became the foundation for all humbuckers.
Early Features:
• Alnico Magnets: Early PAFs used Alnico II, III, or V magnets, each contributing subtle tonal variations.
• Unpotted Coils: PAFs were not wax-potted, which gave them a slightly microphonic quality that many players consider part of their charm.
• Irregular Winding: Early PAFs were hand-wound, leading to variations in output and tone from one pickup to another.
Impact on Tone:
The PAF introduced a warm, full-bodied sound with enhanced sustain and a balanced midrange, a stark contrast to the brighter, thinner tones of single-coil pickups. This made it ideal for jazz, blues, and the emerging rock ‘n’ roll genre.
Golden Age (1957–1960)
Standardization in the Les Paul:
The late 1950s saw the PAF become the standard pickup in Gibson’s flagship Les Paul model. These guitars, particularly the 1958–1960 “Burst” Les Pauls, are now some of the most sought-after vintage instruments, largely due to their PAF pickups.
Key Features:
• Nickel Covers: PAFs were encased in nickel covers that reduced magnetic pull on the strings, contributing to their smooth sustain.
• Diverse Output Levels: Due to inconsistencies in winding machines, the pickups varied in output, ranging from approximately 7.5k to 9k ohms. This variability added to their unique character.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Early PAFs featured distinctive “zebra” coils (one black and one cream bobbin) or double black bobbins, which are now iconic in the guitar world.
Transition and Decline (1961–1975)
The Patent Era:
In 1959, Gibson was granted the patent for the PAF design, and the “Patent Applied For” sticker was replaced with “Patent No. 2,737,842.” While technically the same pickup, subtle changes in materials and manufacturing began to alter the sound.
Changes in Materials:
• Alnico Magnet Shifts: By the mid-1960s, Gibson began using ceramic magnets in some pickups, which altered the tonal characteristics.
• Automated Winding: Transitioning to automated winding processes reduced the inconsistencies that made early PAFs unique.
Tone Impact:
These changes resulted in pickups with a slightly higher output and less tonal variation, leading some players to prefer vintage PAFs for their organic, unpredictable character.
The Vintage Revival (1975–1990s)
Demand for Vintage Tone:
As rock and blues guitarists sought the rich, dynamic tones of the original PAFs, vintage Gibson pickups from the late 1950s skyrocketed in value. By the 1970s, companies like DiMarzio and Seymour Duncan began replicating the PAF design, sparking the boutique pickup market.
Key Replicas:
• DiMarzio PAF: The first commercially available aftermarket humbucker, introduced in 1975, aimed to capture the vintage PAF sound.
• Seymour Duncan Antiquity: A carefully crafted replica designed to mimic the look, feel, and tone of aged PAF pickups.
Legacy Bands:
Artists like Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, and Duane Allman, who relied heavily on vintage Les Pauls with original PAFs, helped cement the mystique of these pickups.
Modern Era (2000s–Present)
Reissues by Gibson:
Recognizing the enduring demand for PAF-style pickups, Gibson introduced several reissues and custom shop models, including the Burstbucker and Custom Bucker series. These pickups aim to replicate the tonal nuances of vintage PAFs while using modern manufacturing techniques.
Boutique Builders:
Boutique pickup manufacturers have taken PAF replicas to new heights, offering options tailored to specific tonal preferences. Notable names include:
• Bare Knuckle Pickups: Known for their meticulous attention to detail and hand-wound designs.
• Lollar Pickups: Celebrated for their balanced and versatile PAF replicas.
• Throbak Electronics: Renowned for their authentic recreations of 1950s PAFs, using vintage-style materials and techniques.
Technological Advancements:
While modern PAF-style pickups strive to capture the vintage sound, they also incorporate innovations like wax potting to reduce microphonics and tighter quality control for consistent tone.
Why PAF Pickups Still Matter
The PAF pickup’s legacy lies in its unparalleled versatility and organic tone. Whether you’re playing blues, rock, jazz, or even metal, a good PAF-style humbucker can deliver the warmth, clarity, and character that made the original design so revolutionary.
Conclusion
The evolution of the PAF pickup reflects the broader history of electric guitar innovation. From its origins as a noise-canceling breakthrough to its status as a cornerstone of vintage tone, the PAF remains a timeless choice for players seeking authentic, dynamic sound. Whether you hunt for a vintage original or choose a modern replica, the spirit of the PAF lives on, inspiring guitarists for generations to come.
