AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best TV Jones Pickup Frames 2026
The top pick is TV Jones EM1 Humbucker Ring Low BK ($10). TV Jones DeArmond Mount Shims gives you the most for the money at $4. TV Jones EM2 Gretsch-Style Ring GO leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 4 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 4
Full detail for the 4 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
This little ring is a lifesaver for players wanting to drop a TV Jones Universal Mount Filter'Tron into a guitar that wasn't originally designed for it. It's a simple, well-executed solution for a common problem – fitting those pickups into guitars with high or low bridges. A must-have for TV Jones enthusiasts and vintage-style tone seekers.
Pros
- Specifically designed for TV Jones Universal Mount pickups, ensuring a perfect fit.
- The 'low' profile accommodates high-bridge guitars, a common issue with vintage designs.
- Plastic construction keeps the weight minimal, crucial for neck pickups.
Cons
- Limited compatibility; strictly for TV Jones Universal Mount pickups only.
- Plastic construction, while lightweight, might feel less premium than metal alternatives.
-
This little ring is a surprisingly crucial detail for nailing that authentic Gretsch vibe. It's a budget-friendly upgrade for players using TV Jones pickups or vintage-spec Filter'Trons, ensuring a proper fit and classic look – just double-check your pickup's corner radius first!
Pros
- Accurate corner radius caters to vintage Filter'Tron aesthetics and tone.
- Gold finish provides a classic Gretsch look, enhancing visual appeal.
- USA-made construction suggests a level of quality control and durability.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less premium compared to metal alternatives.
- Compatibility is limited; won't fit standard humbuckers or all Filter'Trons.
-
These shims from TV Jones are a brilliant little trick for anyone with a vintage-inspired guitar – especially those rocking DeArmond-style pickups. They let you dial in the perfect pickup height to avoid fret buzz and maximize that classic, warm tone. Seriously, a few bucks and a little tweaking can make a huge difference.
Pros
- Precisely laser-cut compression foam ensures consistent, repeatable pickup height adjustments.
- Ideal for vintage-style guitars with DeArmond floating pickups, minimizing fret buzz.
- Simple, inexpensive solution for optimizing output and tonal balance of TV Jones pickups.
Cons
- Foam material can compress over time, potentially requiring occasional replacement.
- Limited to DeArmond-style mounting; not suitable for standard pickup routes.
-
This little ring is a crucial detail for nailing that authentic Gretsch Filter'Tron vibe. It’s a simple, affordable solution for players using TV Jones or English Mount pickups, ensuring correct dimensions and a vintage-correct tone. A must-have for dedicated Gretsch enthusiasts and those recreating classic tones.
Pros
- Precise fit for TV Jones and English Mount Filter'Trons.
- Durable plastic construction maintains pickup stability.
- Silver finish complements classic Gretsch aesthetics.
Cons
- Plastic material isn't as rigid as metal alternatives.
- Compatibility limited; won't fit standard humbuckers or some modern Filter'Trons.
Pickup Frames by the numbers
Measured across all 60 models we track, not a sample.
Median $10 — half of all pickup frames here cost less.
median of 10 models · 6-string–7-string
How to choose the best pickup frames
Material & Construction
Tv Jones frames are typically made from solid brass, which contributes to a warmer, more resonant tone compared to cheaper steel or pot metal frames. That brass adds a subtle sustain and a richness that's noticeable, especially with overwound pickups.
Mechanical Stability
A wobbly pickup is a pain, plain and simple. These frames are robust and provide a solid mounting point, reducing microphonic feedback and ensuring consistent string spacing and intonation - vital for a well-setup guitar.
Tonal Impact
The brass imparts a subtle but significant tonal shift - a smoother high end, a more focused midrange, and a touch more low-end thump. It's not a drastic change, but it's enough to give your pickups that extra something, that 'vintage' vibe.
Compatibility
Tv Jones frames are designed to be drop-in replacements for many vintage-style Gibson pickups, but always double-check dimensions. The fit isn't always perfect with heavily modified or non-standard pickups, so a little tweaking might be needed.
Finish & Aesthetics
Beyond the tone, these frames often have a beautiful aged brass finish that just looks the part. It's a small detail, but it contributes to the overall vintage aesthetic - especially important for players aiming for that authentic look and feel.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're chasing that vintage Gibson mojo, that warm, articulate growl that cuts through a mix without being fizzy? A lot of folks tweak amps and guitars, but the often-overlooked secret weapon is the pickup frame. If you're serious about nailing that classic tone and you're already in the Tv Jones camp, let's talk about their frames - they're not just metal, they're a tonal refinement.
Don't expect these frames to magically transform a cheap, harsh-sounding pickup into a vintage dream. They're a refinement, a subtle enhancement. While the price is higher than basic frames, it's a worthwhile investment if you're already committed to the Tv Jones sound.
Pay attention to the dimensions; some guitars have tighter pickup cavities, and you might need to file or sand the frame slightly for a perfect fit. It's a little extra work, but the tonal reward is worth it.
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 9 pickup frames from the Thomann catalogue (of 60 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 Tv Jones frames worth the extra cost?
If you're chasing a specific vintage tone and already using Tv Jones pickups, absolutely. It's a subtle but noticeable upgrade that contributes to the overall vibe and feel.
Will a brass frame make my pickups sound drastically different?
No, it's not a dramatic change. It's more of a refinement - rounding off harsh edges, adding a touch of warmth and sustain. It's a subtle shift that complements the pickup voicing.
Do I need to worry about the fit?
Potentially. Vintage guitars can have variations in pickup cavity dimensions. Be prepared to do a little filing or sanding if the fit isn't perfect - it's a common occurrence.
Can I use these frames with non-Tv Jones pickups?
While they can work, they're designed specifically to complement Tv Jones pickups. The tonal synergy might not be as pronounced with other brands.
What's the difference between a standard frame and a 'vintage' frame?
The 'vintage' frames typically have a more aged, tarnished finish to match the look of vintage Gibsons. The tonal differences are minimal; it's mostly an aesthetic choice.
