The Rickenbacker Toaster Pickup: Harrison's Secret to a Legendary Sound
For George Harrison, the Rickenbacker twelve-string guitar was a versatile tool that contributed significantly to his unique sound. One of the key elements in achieving that famous sound was the use of a Rick pickup, particularly the toaster top pickup, which played a pivotal role in capturing the rich, compressed tones that defined his songs and albums.
The Unique Tone Characteristics of the Rick Pickup
When discussing the sound of George Harrison's Rickenbacker, we can't overlook the contribution of the Rick pickup. This pickup had unique characteristics that gave the guitar a distinctive tone. One of the most notable features of the Rick pickup was its compression during the recording process. This compression helped to make the sound fuller and more lush, contributing to the rich and vibrant quality that Harrison's music is known for.
The Toaster Top Pickup: Quirky Design, Legendary Sound
The toaster top pickup, named so for its resemblance to the toaster of the era, was a crucial element in Harrison's Rickenbacker 360/12. Its design was unique, and it played a significant role in the recording of the soundtrack for The Beatles' first feature film, "A Hard Day's Night." The opening chords in the title song, performed on this guitar, set the tone and ambiance for the film and the accompanying album.
A Historical Look at Rickenbacker's Pickup Designs
Beginning in 1957, Rickenbacker started developing a low-output single coil pickup that became popularly known as the toaster pickup. This design, due to its resemblance to a toaster, was used in the Rickenbacker Capri series guitars. This included the famous instruments of both John Lennon and George Harrison, such as George's 360/12 models from 1963 and 1965. These guitars showcased a jangly sound typical of the 1960s.
Rickenbacker did not rest on its laurels, and in 1969, the company introduced a Hi-Gain pickup. This was designed to handle the heavier rock sounds that were becoming popular. However, for those who seek the more authentic and pure sound of the 1960s, a low-output toaster pickup remains the best choice.
The Role of Amplifiers and Studio Equipment
While the pickup is a significant factor in the sound, it is important to note that the sound achieved by George Harrison on his early Beatles recordings was also greatly influenced by the amplifiers and studio equipment used. Recording engineers and equipment played a critical role in shaping the final sound. It's through the interplay of the pickup, the guitar itself, and the recording environment that the legendary sounds of George Harrison were created and captured, contributing to the timeless appeal of his music.
Understanding the importance of the Rickenbacker toaster pickup in Harrison's sound provides insight into the mechanics and techniques of recording and sound engineering. For fans and musicians alike, it opens a window into the history of rock music and the tools that made it what it is today.