Description
This set pairs two very different DiMarzio philosophies in one black-covered humbucker package, and throws in a set of D’Addario EXL120 Super Light strings so you can hear the difference immediately.
The DP103BK PAF 36th Anniversary Neck started with Larry DiMarzio’s own 1959 Les Paul as the reference point. Rather than cloning an original PAF, DiMarzio reverse-engineered what actually made those early humbuckers special: a deliberately weak magnetic field that lets strings ring out longer while keeping the attack focused and articulate. Getting there meant computer-controlled winding of 42-gauge custom-coated wire to dial in a precise frequency response, then a dip in DiMarzio’s own compound to kill squeal and microphonics. The nickel-silver cover uses a newer plating that stays more magnetically transparent than vintage covers, so nothing gets in the way of that near-single-coil clarity. It’s smooth without turning muddy, and works equally well moved to the bridge.
- Wiring: 4 Conductor (1 Conductor optional)
- Magnet: Alnico 5
- Output: 250 mV
- DC Resistance: 7.31 Kohm
On the bridge side, the DP160FBK Norton (F-Spaced) uses the same dual-resonance design found in FRED and The Tone Zone, landing tonally between the two: FRED’s nasty harmonic bite combined with Tone Zone-level power and midrange push. It’s hotter and bigger-sounding than any vintage-style pickup, but stays short of full distortion-humbucker territory, which is exactly why DiMarzio calls it one of their most versatile bridge options. It plays well with a range of neck partners beyond this set, including the Air Classic, PAF Pro, and Air Norton.
- Wiring: 4 Conductor
- Magnet: Alnico 5
- Output: 352 mV
- DC Resistance: 12.62 Kohm
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