AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best DiMarzio Humbuckers in Single-Coil Size 2026
The top pick is DiMarzio DP218W Super Distortion S Stratocaster Pickup ($99). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 19 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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DiMarzio DP218W Super Distortion S Stratocaster Pickup
DP 218 Super Distortion S BK · DiMarzio
15 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The DP218 is a serious powerhouse for bridge positions where you need bite and sustain. It’s a clever solution for Strat or Tele players wanting more aggression, and it delivers a surprisingly tight and controlled high-output sound. This is perfect for rock, metal, or anyone craving a hotter, more articulate tone without major modifications.
Pros
- Ceramic magnets deliver a tight, focused high-output tone.
- Excellent hum-canceling properties for clean, noise-free performance.
- Compact size fits seamlessly into single-coil routes, offering humbucker power.
Cons
- Lacks the nuanced dynamic response of Alnico-based pickups.
- High output can be overwhelming for vintage-style amps or lighter playing.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 10.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$110 · Aug 17$99 now$99€89 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
DiMarzio DP184BK The Chopper Single Coil
DP184 Chopper WH · DiMarzio
20 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The Chopper WH is a seriously hot little humbucker that fits in a single-coil cavity. It's a great upgrade for Strat-style guitars wanting a more aggressive, modern sound—perfect for rock, metal, and heavier styles where you need that extra bite and sustain without needing to modify your guitar’s body. It’s a solid performer at a very reasonable price.
Pros
- High output delivers aggressive rock and metal tones.
- Ceramic magnet provides tight, focused low-end response.
- Excellent noise rejection compared to traditional single coils.
Cons
- Can sound a bit harsh for very clean, nuanced playing styles.
- Coil splitting produces a thinner, less powerful tone.
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DiMarzio DP189W The Tone Zone S Stratocaster Pickup
DP189 Tone Zone S AW · DiMarzio
16 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The Tone Zone S AW is a clever bit of DiMarzio engineering—a humbucker sized to fit a single-coil cavity. It's a great choice for players wanting a thicker, more powerful bridge tone without the routing required for a full-sized humbucker, especially those playing rock, blues, or classic country. It’s a seriously good upgrade for Strats and Teles needing more grunt.
Pros
- Delivers a surprisingly full, articulate tone for a single-coil humbucker.
- Aged white finish provides a vintage aesthetic, blending seamlessly with many guitars.
- Increased midrange presence cuts through dense mixes, excellent for lead work.
Cons
- May be too thick sounding for players seeking a truly scooped, modern tone.
- Coil splitting produces a relatively quiet, somewhat thin single-coil voice.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
DiMarzio DP180 Air Norton S Rails Strat Pickup
DP180 Air Norton S WH · DiMarzio
10 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The Air Norton S is a seriously clever pickup. It gives you humbucker power and a surprisingly articulate response, plus the coil-splitting option opens up a lot of tonal possibilities. It's a great choice for players who want a modern, versatile sound in a single-coil sized package, especially for rock and blues styles.
Pros
- Excellent clarity and articulation for a humbucker.
- The ceramic magnet delivers a focused, modern high-output tone.
- Well-balanced response across the frequency spectrum – no harshness.
Cons
- Can lack the warmth of an Alnico-based pickup for truly vintage tones.
- May be too aggressive for players seeking a very mellow, scooped sound.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
DiMarzio DP318BK Super Distortion T Telecaster Pickup
DP318 Super Distortion · DiMarzio
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The DP318 is a powerhouse for T-style guitars needing serious bite. It’s got that thick, saturated distortion without being muddy, and the coil-splitting gives you some cleaner options too. This is a great choice for players who want a hot, modern sound in a classic Telecaster format.
Pros
- High output delivers aggressive rock and metal tones.
- Ceramic magnet provides tight, focused bass response.
- Four-wire design allows for versatile coil-splitting options.
Cons
- Can be overly aggressive for subtle, nuanced playing styles.
- Lacks the warmth and complexity of Alnico-based pickups.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
DiMarzio DP182BK Fast Track 2 Single Coil
DP182 WH · DiMarzio
13 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The Fast Track2 is a surprisingly versatile high-output humbucker in a single-coil size. It’s a great choice for players wanting a powerful, focused tone for rock, punk, and heavier styles – think early Foo Fighters or Green Day – without the bulk of a full-size humbucker. It’s a well-built, affordable option for injecting serious drive into your Strat or Tele.
Pros
- High output provides aggressive gain without excessive muddiness, a DiMarzio hallmark.
- Adjacent blades minimize microphonic feedback, a common issue with high-output pickups.
- Strong midrange focus cuts through dense mixes, ideal for lead guitar work.
Cons
- Limited versatility; excels in rock and high-gain genres, less suited for clean tones.
- The white ceramic appearance may not suit all guitar aesthetics or preferences.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
DiMarzio DP186W The Cruiser Neck Single Coil
DP186 The Cruiser Neck WH · DiMarzio
10 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The DP186Wh Cruiser is a surprisingly potent neck pickup. It’s hotter than a typical single-coil, giving you more growl and sustain, especially on the lower strings. Perfect for players wanting a bit more punch in a Strat or Tele without sacrificing that classic single-coil feel.
Pros
- Ceramic magnet delivers a tight, focused high-output tone.
- 4-conductor wiring allows for coil-splitting versatility.
- Excellent bass response without muddiness, a DiMarzio hallmark.
Cons
- Can be overly aggressive for players seeking a truly vintage, scooped tone.
- Ceramic magnet may lack the warmth of Alnico for some applications.
58AudioFu
Index↓ 3.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$122 · Aug 17$117 now$117€105 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
DiMarzio DP419BK Area 67 Single Coil Pickup
DP419 BK Area 67 · DiMarzio
9 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The Area 67 is a fantastic option if you’re looking to add some serious humbucker beef to your Strat without losing that classic single-coil vibe. It’s a great upgrade for players wanting a thicker, more powerful sound for blues, rock, and even some funk, while retaining a good deal of clarity. It's a surprisingly affordable way to get a big tone shift.
Pros
- Delivers a surprisingly thick, harmonically rich tone for a single-coil sized humbucker.
- Alnico 5 and Alnico 8 magnet combination offers a balanced, articulate response.
- Excellent noise reduction compared to traditional single-coil Strat pickups.
Cons
- Can lack the extreme high-end sparkle of some vintage single-coils.
- Output might be a bit low for modern, high-gain styles.
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DiMarzio DP181BK Fast Track 1 Single Coil Pickup
DP181 Fast Track BK · DiMarzio
9 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The DiMarzio Fast Track 1 is a clever little pickup. It’s a great option if you want a humbucker’s noise-canceling properties in a Strat-style guitar, but still want that familiar single-coil vibe—especially for cleaner tones and bluesy playing. It’s a well-executed design for players seeking a more balanced and versatile Strat sound without a complete overhaul.
Pros
- Delivers a surprisingly full, articulate tone for a single-size humbucker.
- 4-wire configuration unlocks versatile wiring options for varied tonal palettes.
- Ceramic magnet provides a tight, focused bass response and clarity.
Cons
- Ceramic magnet may lack the warmth of Alnico for certain vintage tones.
- Output level, while clear, might be too low for high-gain, modern styles.
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DiMarzio DP381BK Fast Track T Telecaster Bridge Pickup
DP381 Fast Track WH · DiMarzio
7 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The DP381W is a clever little pickup – it gives you that extra push for rock and country without losing the Tele’s core identity. It's perfect for players who want more gain without completely abandoning that classic Tele snap and bite. A solid upgrade for those wanting more power in their bridge position.
Pros
- Delivers increased output without sacrificing Telecaster’s characteristic twang and clarity.
- Juxtaposed coil design effectively cancels hum, providing a quieter signal.
- White ceramic magnet contributes to a tighter, more articulate low-end response.
Cons
- May lack the very airiest, most delicate high-end response of traditional Tele pickups.
- Ceramic magnet tone isn't for players seeking a vintage, warmer alnico sound.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$117 now$117€105 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 19 humbuckers in single-coil size
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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DiMarzio DP188BK Pro Track Stratocaster PickupDP188BK · DiMarzio53Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
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DiMarzio DP117W HS-3 Stratocaster PickupDP117W HS3 · DiMarzio51Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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DiMarzio DP384BKDiMarzio · 4 finishes51Stable$110€99$110€99Check ↗
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DiMarzio DP187BK The Cruiser Single Coil Bridge PickupDP187Wh · DiMarzio · 2 finishes50Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 15
DiMarzio DP 427BK Sugar ChakraDiMarzio · 2 finishes46Stable$127€114$127€114Check ↗
- 16
DiMarzio DP116 HS-2 BKDiMarzio41Stable$90€81$90€81Check ↗
- 17
DiMarzio DP116HS-2WhDiMarzio41Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 18
DiMarzio Area Hot T DP421DiMarzio41Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 19
DiMarzio DP389 Tone Zone T BKDiMarzio41Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
Humbuckers in Single-Coil Size by the numbers
Measured across all 100 models we track, not a sample.
Median $122 — half of all humbuckers in single-coil size here cost less.
How to choose the best humbuckers in single-coil size
Voice and Character
Dimarzio's single-coil sized humbuckers don't just give you more output; they have distinct personalities. Some lean towards a bluesy warmth, others offer a tighter, more modern high-midrange punch-it's about finding that sweet spot for your style, whether you're laying down rhythm parts or wailing a solo.
Output and Dynamics
These aren't just about brute force. The best ones retain a surprising amount of dynamic range, responding well to your picking attack. You want that ability to go from a clean, articulate tone to a screaming overdrive without sounding muddy or compressed-it's about headroom, even when you're pushing the amp.
Construction and Quality
Dimarzio's build quality is generally solid. Alnico magnet options are common, which usually translates to a warmer, more vocal tone than ceramic magnets. Check the winding type (neck vs. bridge) and the lead wire quality-it all adds up to a consistent signal and reliable performance.
Noise and Hum
A single-coil sized humbucker still has to tame that inherent single-coil hum. While they're significantly quieter than standard single-coils, some models are better than others at rejecting noise, especially in noisy environments or with high-gain amps. It's a trade-off, but worth considering.
Versatility
While you're aiming for a humbucker sound, you still want some flexibility. The best options retain enough of that single-coil character to be usable across a variety of genres-from blues and rock to country and even jazz. That 'fat midrange honk' needs to be controllable, not overwhelming.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're looking to inject some serious humbucker grit into a Strat or Tele? It's a classic move, chasing that thicker, more powerful tone without sacrificing the single-coil snap. Dimarzio's been doing this for decades, and they've got a lineup of single-coil sized humbuckers that genuinely deliver-it's not just about miniaturization, it's about nailing a specific voicing. Let's break down the best options, what makes them tick, and whether they're right for your rig.
Don't just grab the highest output model - think about the guitar you're putting them in and the amp you're using. A hotter pickup in a bright-sounding guitar can easily become ice-picky, while a lower-output model can get lost in a dense band mix. Pay attention to the magnet type - Alnico II will be warmer, Alnico V will be brighter and more aggressive.
Ultimately, it's about finding the right balance for your specific needs, and sometimes that means trying a few different options.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 36 humbuckers in single-coil size from the Thomann catalogue (of 100 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are these pickups drop-in replacements for my Strat?
Generally, yes. However, you might need to adjust the pickup height and potentially do some minor routing or modification depending on the specific pickup and your guitar's construction. Check the Dimarzio website for specific fitment notes.
What's the difference between an Alnico II and an Alnico V pickup?
Alnico II is typically warmer, smoother, and more vocal, with a softer high end. Alnico V is brighter, more aggressive, and has more output. It's a matter of tonal preference and what best complements your guitar and amp.
Will these pickups sound like a full-size humbucker?
Not exactly. They're voiced to capture the essence of a humbucker in a smaller form factor. You'll get more output and a thicker tone, but the overall sonic footprint will still be closer to a single-coil than a traditional humbucker.
I have a noisy amp, will these pickups still hum?
They'll be quieter than single-coils, but a noisy amp will still contribute to hum. Shielding the cavities and using a good quality ground can help minimize noise regardless of the pickup.
Can I use these in a Telecaster?
Absolutely! They're a popular upgrade for Telecasters looking for a fatter, more powerful tone. Just be mindful of the pickup spacing and adjust accordingly.





