Why Fender's Paranormal Cabronita Telecaster Thinline Lied About Its Pickups

Recent discussions on various guitar forums have raised questions about the authenticity of the pickups in Fender's Paranormal Cabronita. Many argue that the pickups, designed to mimic the sound of Jazzmaster pickups for an authentic vibe, in fact turn out to be P-90s upon closer inspection.

The Claim: Fender Lied About the Pickups

The assertion suggests that Fender intentionally designed the pickups to resemble a Jazzmaster but opted for P-90s instead, thus creating a false impression of a particular sound. This has led to debates about whether such a move constitutes deception or a simple technical clarification.

Are Fender's Pickups a Deception?

Upon closer examination, it is clear that while the pickups may bear a superficial resemblance to P-90s, there are significant differences in their construction and design. P-90 pickups are generally about twice as tall, have differently shaped bobbins, and feature a distinct magnet arrangement. These differences mean that the pickups are not interchangeable and cannot be used as a direct substitute for each other in the same guitar setup.

Fender does offer a pickup design that closely matches P-90s, making them compatible with guitars that have been routed for Gibson-style P-90s, but this is not the design used in the Paranormal Cabronita. Therefore, any suggestion of deception seems to be based on an incorrect assumption. The pickups in the Paranormal Cabronita are indeed P-90s, designed to provide a specific sound and playability experience.

The Essence of the Debate

The discussion revolves around the authenticity and resemblance of the pickups in a guitar known for its unique telecaster-like shape. The original points of contention highlight the differences between P-90 and Jazzmaster pickups:

P-90 vs. Jazzmaster Pickups: While both are single-coil pickups, P-90s are essentially a modern take on Gibson's classic design, used in less than 85% of Gibson's current model lineup. These pickups are known for their bright and resonant sound, often preferred by guitarists who need a clear, articulate tone.Airiness in Single-Coil Pickups: Jazzmaster pickups are known for their airy, clear sound, aiming to please jazz guitarists. This design choice is more about achieving a specific tonal characteristic rather than a historical reality of widespread usage by jazz guitarists as the name might suggest.

Conclusion: A Clearer Understanding

Ultimately, the Paranormal Cabronita's pickups are not deceptive or misleading. While they may have been intentionally designed to give an authentic Jazzmaster feel, their construction clearly aligns with the P-90 specification. This detail provides clarity for both buyers and enthusiasts, ensuring that expectations are met and the desired sound is achievable from these pickups.