Know Your Gear Podcast Summary
Episode Title: Why They Do Not Use USA Parts In USA Made Guitar Pickups
Host: Phillip McKnight
Release Date: March 24, 2025
1. Introduction and Guest Background
In this special bonus episode of the Know Your Gear Podcast, host Phillip McKnight welcomes John Gundry from Throwback Pickups as his guest. John Gundry is renowned for his expertise in the PAF (Patent Applied For) pickups, especially his meticulous efforts to recreate every variant of the original PAF pickups.
Notable Quote:
"John Gundry is an expert when it comes to the PAF pickup... Paul, who works at his shop, may be the only person left on the entire planet Earth that can operate all four machines."
[00:01]
2. Recreating Vintage PAF Pickups
a. Material Sourcing and Challenges
John Gundry discusses the initial hurdles he faced while crafting pickups that adhered to the vintage PAF specifications. Early efforts led to a "hodgepodge" approach due to the lack of precise components required for authentic replication.
Notable Quote:
"When I first started making pickups, it was a hodgepodge... I had to adapt a Stumac keeper bar to work with it."
[00:59]
He emphasizes the necessity of producing custom parts to achieve the desired specifications, highlighting the absence of reliable sources for components like bobbins and base plates at the time.
b. Butyrate Plastic and Its Relevance
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the use of cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) in PAF pickup bobbins. Gundry explains that this specific plastic offers unique mechanical properties essential for maintaining the integrity and tonal characteristics of unpottered pickups.
Notable Quote:
"Cellulose acetate butyrate is what they use. So this is one of these specs of a vintage PAF that is a signature of them... it has a weird smell."
[03:34]
He further opines that even minor differences in materials can influence the mechanical resonance and, consequently, the pickup's sound.
3. Manufacturing Process and Details
a. Plastic Molding and Bobbin Variations
Gundry elaborates on collaborating with a local plastic molder in Menden, Michigan, to produce accurate bobbins. He reveals insights into the original manufacturing processes used by Gibson, including the identification of different mold chamber numbers and part variations.
Notable Quote:
"He explained the numbers that are inside the bobbin... there are four different kinds of bobbins labeled 1, 2, 3, and 4."
[05:38]
This attention to detail ensures the production of pickups that closely mirror the original vintage models.
b. Differences in Production Scale and Quality
The conversation highlights the trade-offs between large-scale manufacturing and artisanal craftsmanship. While major manufacturers prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness, Gundry and his team focus on precision and authenticity, resulting in higher-priced but superior-quality pickups.
Notable Quote:
"I think it's part of why it really, we have to charge more."
[10:11]
4. Importance of Details in Replication and Tonal Impact
Gundry underscores the significance of minute details in pickup construction, such as the flatness of nickel covers and the type of tape used for coil securing. These elements, though seemingly trivial, contribute to the overall performance and sound quality of the pickups.
Notable Quote:
"If it's flatter, it's less likely to feedback... these little details... really contribute to making a more accurate reproduction."
[07:29]
He shares personal experiences and observations on how these details affect the final sound, advocating for meticulous craftsmanship over mass production compromises.
5. Use of USA vs. Overseas Parts
A critical discussion revolves around the differences between using USA-made components versus overseas alternatives. Gundry points out that while overseas parts can reduce costs, they often fall short in consistency and quality, potentially compromising the authenticity of vintage replicas.
Notable Quote:
"I've paid 15 times more for USA-made magnets than overseas, but they meet the vintage specs without compromising quality."
[23:16]
He highlights instances where overseas components introduced variability, such as inconsistent magnetization, which adversely affects pickup performance.
6. Selling Parts and Information Transparency
John Gundry emphasizes his commitment to transparency by openly sharing detailed information about his pickup components and manufacturing processes. This approach not only educates consumers but also supports fellow pickup builders in achieving authentic reproductions.
Notable Quote:
"I want people to know what they're getting... having them secretly be a secret is not useful to the person buying it."
[29:19]
He advocates for a collaborative industry environment where knowledge sharing enhances the overall quality and reliability of products.
7. Strings and Pickup Interaction
The episode transitions into a nuanced discussion about the interplay between guitar strings and pickups. Gundry explains how different string compositions and core types can influence the pickup's tonal output and responsiveness.
Notable Quote:
"Using Alnico 3 and broadcast pickups with nickel-wound strings gives just a little extra signal... it's personalized, but there is definitely something to the guitar needing a certain string."
[40:21]
This segment delves into topics like string tension, muscle memory, and the technical aspects of string installation, revealing how these factors collectively impact a guitarist's performance and sound.
8. Conclusion and Shop Operations
The podcast wraps up with an overview of John Gundry's shop operations. He details the team structure, highlighting the specialized roles each member plays in the production process, from winding to assembly and packaging.
Notable Quote:
"Our shop is four people... Paul has the most experience on the variety of machines we have."
[51:50]
Gundry also touches upon their best-selling products and the bespoke nature of their offerings, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to quality and customization.
Final Thoughts
This episode provides an in-depth exploration of the meticulous efforts involved in recreating vintage PAF pickups using authentic USA-made parts. Through detailed discussions and expert insights, Phillip McKnight and John Gundry illuminate the challenges and triumphs of maintaining legacy standards in contemporary manufacturing, offering valuable knowledge for guitar enthusiasts and gear aficionados alike.
Additional Resources:
- Throwback Pickups YouTube Channel: [Link to Channel]
- Throwback Pickups Website: [Link to Website]
- Recommended Videos:
- [Video 1 Title & Link]
- [Video 2 Title & Link]
- [Video 3 Title & Link]
Thank you for tuning into the Know Your Gear Podcast. Stay informed and keep your gear in peak condition!