Alnico 2, 3, 4 and 5 in Guitar Pickups: What Are the Differences?
Alnico 2, 3, 4 and 5 have different magnetic properties, but magnet grade alone cannot precisely predict the sound of a pickup. Actual magnet charge, dimensions, the magnetic circuit, coil design and distance from the strings all influence the result.
What is Alnico?
Alnico is a family of magnetic alloys whose name refers mainly to aluminium, nickel and cobalt. Different grades have different magnetic properties, which affects how they can be charged and the field they provide within a given magnetic circuit.
In a guitar pickup, the magnet does not work alone. Pole pieces, screws, bars and steel plates guide magnetic flux toward the strings and alter its distribution.
Why tonal descriptions are only tendencies
Alnico 2 is often described as softer and Alnico 5 as firmer. Those descriptions can be useful tendencies when comparing otherwise similar pickups, but they become misleading when coil design, magnet charge or geometry also changes.
A partially degaussed magnet of one grade can create a weaker field than a more strongly charged magnet of another grade. Two pickups using the same Alnico grade can also have very different inductance and resonant behavior.
Alnico 3 and Alnico 4
Alnico 3 is associated with some early single-coil designs and can be useful when a moderate magnetic field is desired. Alnico 4 is often selected in humbuckers when the designer wants a different balance of attack, midrange and low end. These are design choices, not absolute rules.
What Asyllum controls in the workshop
Hand building allows magnet grade to be considered together with actual magnetization and winding parameters. Asyllum’s workshop page shows several winding and magnetizing steps used during production: https://www.asyllumpickups.com/l-atelier
Key takeaway
Do not choose a pickup only because it uses Alnico 2 or Alnico 5. Read the magnet grade together with coil construction, magnetic circuit and intended use.
Further technical reading
For a broader technical view, visit the Asyllum Lab and the related guides below.
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