AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Lollar Single Coil Pickups 2026
The top pick is Lollar ST '64 Bridge PA FP ($145). Lollar Novel T Bridge C leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 22 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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This pickup delivers a classic 1960s sound with punchy mids and bright highs. Its piano-like attack makes it ideal for cutting through a band mix at the bridge. While the Alnico 5 magnet ensures warmth, the single coil nature means you'll hear some hum. It's a solid choice for players who want that pre-CBS vintage feel.
Pros
- Rich mids with clear highs and full bass response
- Hand-wound vintage style for authentic 1960s tone
- Distinct piano-like attack perfect for bridge position
Cons
- Single coil design is prone to magnetic hum
- Wax moulding may not suit all climate conditions
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$145 now$145€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Special T Neck pickup from Lollar is a fantastic upgrade for Telecasters wanting that classic, slightly hotter neck tone. It’s got a real vintage vibe, clear and defined, and pairs beautifully with a Special T bridge for a full, balanced sound. Perfect for players digging a traditional Tele tone, especially those playing country, blues, or rock.
Pros
- Alnico 5 magnet delivers a balanced, articulate tone with strong fundamentals.
- Wax potting effectively reduces microphonic noise and unwanted hum.
- 6.3k DC resistance provides ample output for a Tele neck pickup.
Cons
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in traditional T-style applications.
- May be too bright for some players preferring a darker neck tone.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$145 now$145€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Royal T Neck from Lollar is a clever modification, essentially bringing a Strat neck pickup's vibe into a Telecaster. It’s a fantastic option for players who love the warmth and clarity of a Strat neck but appreciate the Tele’s versatility; it’s a great way to add some Strat-style sparkle without a full swap.
Pros
- Nickel-plated steel cover minimizes harshness, delivering a smoother tone.
- Alnico 5 magnet provides a balanced, articulate, and slightly warmer voice.
- Unique winding and stronger wire maximize output while retaining clarity.
Cons
- 6.24k resistance might be too high for some Telecaster setups.
- The Strat-like tone may not appeal to players seeking a traditional Tele neck.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$168 now$168€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
These Lollar ST Specials are a fantastic upgrade for Strat-style guitars, especially if you're chasing a more powerful, compressed bridge tone. The Alnico 5 magnets provide a richer midrange than typical Fender pickups, while still retaining that classic single-coil character. Ideal for players who want a little more grit and sustain without losing the familiar Strat sparkle.
Pros
- Alnico 5 magnet delivers a warm, articulate tone with great sustain
- Flat pole pieces offer balanced output and even response across the strings
- Wax potting minimizes microphonic noise and unwanted resonance
Cons
- 7.6kΩ DC resistance may be too high for some vintage-correct builds
- Parchment cover is a fixed aesthetic - no alternative color options
33AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$145 now$145€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Lollar Vintage T Neck CH is a fantastic upgrade for players seeking authentic, vintage Telecaster neck tones. The hand-wound construction and AlNiCo 5 magnet provide a warm, articulate sound with a lovely mid-range presence – perfect for blues, country, and classic rock styles where clarity and vintage character are paramount.
Pros
- Hand-wound AlNiCo 5 delivers balanced vintage tone
- Large diameter winding reduces compression for clarity
- Wax potting minimizes microphonic noise and feedback
Cons
- 5.6k DC resistance may be too low for some high-output amps
- Limited versatility; excels in vintage T-style tones only
33AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$152 now$152€135 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Lollar 52 T Bridge is a fantastic choice if you’re chasing that authentic 50s Telecaster vibe. The AlNiCo 2 magnets give you a really sweet, articulate tone with a strong low-end, perfect for country, blues, and classic rock players who want a balanced and responsive bridge pickup.
Pros
- AlNiCo 2 magnet delivers a classic, bell-like clarity and warmth.
- Hand-wound construction ensures consistent output and tonal character.
- Wax potting eliminates microphonic squeals common in vintage-style pickups.
Cons
- AlNiCo 2 magnets produce a lower output than Ceramic or higher-grade AlNiCo.
- The vintage-style design may lack the high-end sizzle of modern pickups.
33AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Lollar Vintage T Bridge is a serious upgrade for players chasing that authentic, throaty Tele tone. It’s got a nice, warm growl and a touch more sustain than you typically find, making it ideal for country, blues, and classic rock. If you're looking for a vintage-voiced bridge pickup without spending a fortune, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Hand-wound construction delivers exceptional clarity and note definition.
- Flat-pole design enhances string vibration and sustain compared to typical T-style pickups.
- Wax potting minimizes microphonic noise, great for recording and loud stages.
Cons
- The vintage output might be too low for modern high-gain amp users.
- Black plastic cover, while functional, isn't the most visually premium option.
33AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The J-Street T Bridge is a fantastic option for players seeking a P-90-esque growl without the full-on humbucker sound. It’s a real sweet spot for rock, blues, and even some funk, bringing a noticeable punch and clarity to your bridge tone – especially when paired with a more vintage-voiced neck pickup. This is a great upgrade for guitars that need more bite.
Pros
- AlNiCo 5 magnet delivers a warm, singing midrange presence
- Flat-pole design provides a tighter, more focused response than traditional staggered poles
- 8.7kΩ DC resistance offers increased output for a more powerful bridge tone
Cons
- The hotter output might clash with very vintage-voiced neck pickups
- Black cover can look stark on guitars with vintage aesthetics
33AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Special T Bridge from Lollar is a fantastic upgrade for players wanting a P-90-esque grit with a touch more output than a traditional vintage bridge pickup. It’s a really smart choice for blues, rock, and even some indie styles, especially if you’re looking for a more aggressive, vocal tone without going full humbucker. It’s well-built and delivers a serious punch for a single coil.
Pros
- AlNiCo 5 magnet delivers a warm, articulate vintage tone.
- Flat-pole design provides a tighter, more focused high-end response.
- Wax potting eliminates microphonic squeals, crucial for high-gain rigs.
Cons
- 8.0kΩ DC resistance might clash with certain vintage guitar circuits.
- Black cover might not suit all aesthetic preferences or guitar finishes.
33AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$163 now$163€145 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Novel T Bridge C is a seriously clever pickup. It gives you that classic, snappy single-coil vibe, but in a humbucker-sized package—perfect for players wanting a hotter, more versatile bridge tone without sacrificing that vintage character. It's a fantastic upgrade for guitars where you want more bite and clarity.
Pros
- Alnico 5 magnet delivers a punchy, articulate, and responsive tone.
- Slanted coil design authentically replicates vintage bridge pickup placement.
- Hand-wound construction ensures consistent quality and nuanced sonic character.
Cons
- Alnico 5 can be slightly harsh for players seeking a very mellow tone.
- 8.5k DC resistance might require tweaking of existing pot values.
33AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 22 single coil pickups
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Lollar B.S. T-Style Bridge BKLollar33Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 12
Lollar Novel CC NE NILollar33Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 13
Lollar Charlie Christian T NE BKLollar33Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 14
Lollar Vintage T Set NILollar · 2 finishes22Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 15
Lollar 52 T-Set CHLollar · 2 finishes22Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 16
Lollar Special T Set CHLollar · 2 finishes22Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 17
Lollar Original '58 J-Master Set CRLollar20Stable$298€265$298€265Check ↗
- 18
Lollar '63 J-Master Set CRLollar20Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 19
Lollar J-Master P90 Set CRLollar20Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 20
Lollar ST Special Set PALollar20Stable$404€359$404€359Check ↗
- 21
Lollar ST Special Blonde Set PA FPLollar20Stable$415€369$415€369Check ↗
- 22
Lollar Super-Caster Set CLollar20Stable$494€439$494€439Check ↗
Single Coil Pickups by the numbers
Measured across all 398 models we track, not a sample.
Median $224 — half of all single coil pickups here cost less.
How to choose the best single coil pickups
Winding & Materials
Lollar's meticulous attention to winding techniques and using Alnico magnets (usually Alnico 5, but they have others) is what gives them their signature voice. It's not just about the magnet type; it's about how they're wound and how that impacts the dynamic response and harmonic complexity.
Vintage Correctness
They're obsessed with nailing the specs of vintage pickups - screw sizes, pole piece height, even the cloth wiring. This isn't just for aesthetics; it directly affects the output and feel. The goal is that authentic, responsive feel and that low-wind clarity.
Output Range
Lollar's range is impressive. You can get everything from a genuinely low-output vintage-style pickup that's clean and articulate to hotter versions that still retain clarity and definition, allowing you to cut through a dense mix without getting muddy. That's crucial for modern bands.
Dynamic Response
These pickups respond incredibly well to your playing dynamics. Light picking yields a delicate, glassy tone, while digging in brings out a richer, more saturated sound. It's the kind of responsiveness you just don't get with a lot of cheaper pickups.
Build Quality
The build quality is rock solid. You're getting hand-wound pickups with quality components, and they're built to last. This isn't a pickup you're going to be replacing next year - it's an investment in your tone.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're chasing that vintage chime, that glassy snap, but you're tired of the mud and the fizz that so many aftermarket single coils deliver? Lollar is the name you need to know. They've been quietly building some of the best single coils around for years, and if you're serious about nailing a specific vibe - whether it's a twangy Tele or a Strat with serious headroom - these are worth a serious look.
Lollar pickups aren't the cheapest option, but you're paying for the attention to detail and the genuine vintage-inspired voicing. Don't just grab the 'hottest' set; consider your guitar's wood and your amp's character. If you're going for a classic Fender tone, don't pair high-output Lollars with a Vox AC30; it's just not going to work.
Also, be aware that some models are slightly overwound compared to truly vintage specs, which gives them a bit more headroom and a bit more output for modern playing - not necessarily a bad thing, but something to consider.
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 30 single coil pickups from the Thomann catalogue (of 398 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 Lollar pickups really worth the money?
If you're chasing a specific vintage tone or need pickups with exceptional dynamic response, absolutely. They're a significant upgrade over many mass-produced options, especially if you're tired of the generic 'high-output' sound.
What's the difference between Lollar Imperial and Standard pickups?
The Imperials are Lollar's premium line, featuring even more meticulous winding, tighter tolerances, and often a slightly different magnet type. The difference is subtle, but they tend to have a more refined and nuanced tone - a bit more 'air' and complexity.
I have a Strat with modern, high-output pickups. Will Lollar pickups sound good?
It depends. Lollars will likely tame the harshness and increase the clarity, but the guitar's overall tone will still be influenced by the wood and the amp. Experimentation is key; a lower-output Lollar set might be a good starting point.
Do I need to have a professional install them?
No, but if you're not comfortable soldering and working with electronics, it's always best to have someone experienced do it. Improper installation can damage the pickups or the guitar.
What's the best Lollar pickup for a Telecaster?
The Lollar Tele Bridge is a classic choice - it has that bright, cutting tone with plenty of chime. The Lollar Tele Neck offers a warmer, more balanced response to complement the bridge pickup. It really depends on the overall sound you're after.
