Pickup Comparison
Burstbucker 1 vs Burstbucker 2
Burstbucker 1 and 2 are the neck and bridge halves of Gibson's Burstbucker PAF set. Both are Alnico II with unbalanced coils, but the 2 is wound hotter for the bridge position.
In short: Burstbucker 1 is the neck (lower output); Burstbucker 2 is the bridge (medium output). They're a matched set, not rivals.
Specifications
| Spec | Burstbucker 1 | Burstbucker 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup Type | Humbucker | Humbucker |
| Magnet | Alnico II | Alnico II |
| Typical Position | Neck | Bridge |
| Relative Output | Low | Medium |
| DC Resistance | 7.3kΩ | 7.8kΩ |
| Production Years | 1990s–Present | 1990s–Present |
Key Difference
Output and position: Burstbucker 1 is underwound for the neck; Burstbucker 2 is wound a touch hotter for the bridge.
Tone Comparison
Burstbucker 1: clear, open and slightly 'airier' neck tone. Burstbucker 2: punchier, with more midrange and more drive for the bridge.
Magnet & Output
Both Alnico II with unbalanced coils. Burstbucker 1 is low output (neck); Burstbucker 2 is medium output (bridge).
Which Suits Your Style?
- Blues
- Burstbucker 1 (neck) for clarity; Burstbucker 2 (bridge) for lead grind.
- Rock
- Burstbucker 2
- Metal
- Neither — look at the 498T or 500T.
- Jazz
- Burstbucker 1 (neck)
Bottom Line
- Best Value
- Buy them as a set.
- Most Vintage
- Both — authentic PAF character.
- Best for Blues
- Burstbucker 1
- Best for Heavy Music
- Burstbucker 2 (marginally)
Verdict
They're designed to work together: 1 in the neck, 2 in the bridge. Don't choose between them — pair them.
FAQ
- Are Burstbucker 1 and 2 a set?
- Yes — 1 is the neck, 2 is the bridge in a standard Burstbucker pair.
- Can I put a Burstbucker 1 in the bridge?
- You can, but it's underwound and will sound thin there; it's voiced for the neck.
- What about Burstbucker 3?
- Burstbucker 3 is hotter still, often a bridge option for more drive.
Related Pickup Comparisons
'57 Classic vs Burstbucker 2
Choose the '57 Classic for a smooth, balanced vintage PAF; choose a Burstbucker for a rawer, more dynamic vintage tone with slightly more hair.
Burstbucker 2 vs 490T
Choose Burstbuckers for raw vintage character; choose 490R/490T for a smooth, modern, versatile all-rounder.
498T vs Burstbucker 3
Choose the 498T for hard-rock and higher-output drive; choose the Burstbucker 3 for vintage PAF tone with a touch of extra heat.