We originally created the HS-3™ to be a warmer bridge-position companion to the HS-2™. Yngwie Malmsteen adopted it for his standard neck and bridge pickup, and almost overnight the HS-3™ acquired the reputation of being a high-powered metal pickup. This isn’t really the case. The HS-3™ is actually a smooth and relatively quiet pickup that produces a sweet overdrive tone without jagged edges. What Yngwie discovered is that these qualities combine perfectly with a heavily distorted amp, because the sound won’t get muddy or messy. The HS-3™ is also versatile. It’s a noise-free pickup in a live situation or in the studio.

Recommended For: All positions.

Tech Talk: Works well in all 3 positions on a Strat for a slightly warmer-than-usual Strat sound. Also works well as a bridge pickup with YJM™ (neck) and HS-2™ (middle). Combines in middle and neck positions with bridge humbuckers like PAF Pro®, PAF®, Air Classic™ and Norton®.