Alnico 2 vs Alnico 5 magnets differ significantly in magnetic strength, composition, and tonal characteristics. Recent tests reveal that Alnico 5 magnets can reach up to 0.264 tesla, or 2640 gauss, while Alnico 2 magnets max out at about 0.256 tesla, or 2560 gauss.
Magnet Type | Remanence (Br) Tesla | Remanence (Br) Gauss |
|---|---|---|
Alnico 2 | 0.246 – 0.256 | 2460 – 2560 |
Alnico 5 | 0.250 – 0.264 | 2500 – 2640 |
When comparing alnico 2 vs alnico 5, musicians notice that Alnico 5 offers a stronger magnetic pull, higher output, and a brighter tone. Understanding the differences between alnico 2 and alnico 5 is essential for players to choose the ideal pickup that suits their musical style.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Alnico 2 magnets have a weaker pull. They make a warm and smooth sound. This sound is great for blues, jazz, and classic rock.
Alnico 5 magnets have a stronger pull. They make a brighter and louder sound. This sound fits rock, pop, and modern music.
The metals inside are different. Alnico 2 has more aluminum and less cobalt. Alnico 5 has more cobalt and iron. This changes how strong they are and how they sound.
Players who play softly or use fingerstyle like Alnico 2. It gives longer notes and a more expressive sound.
Alnico 5 magnets are good for hard strumming and lead playing. They make clear and strong notes that stand out in a band.
Some guitars use both Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 magnets. This mixes warm and bright sounds. Alnico 2 is often at the neck. Alnico 5 is usually at the bridge.
Alnico magnets stay strong for many years. This makes them good for guitar pickups.
Pick the right magnet for your music style and sound. Both Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 have special benefits for your guitar.
Key Differences
Magnetic Strength
Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 magnets are not the same. Alnico 5 magnets pull harder than Alnico 2 magnets. This means Alnico 5 pickups give more output. Many musicians hear a stronger signal from Alnico 5 magnets. Alnico 2 magnets have a weaker magnetic field. This makes the sound smoother and more old-fashioned.
Note: Stronger magnetic pull can change how strings move. Alnico 5 magnets might make notes ring for less time if they are too close to the strings.
Quick Comparison:
Alnico 2: Weaker magnetic pull, less output
Alnico 5: Stronger magnetic pull, more output
Composition
What is inside each magnet changes how it works. Alnico 2 magnets have less cobalt and more aluminum. Alnico 5 magnets have more cobalt and more iron. These changes in what they are made of affect how they work with guitar strings.
Magnet Type | Aluminum (%) | Nickel (%) | Cobalt (%) | Iron (%) | Other Elements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alnico 2 | ~10 | ~19 | ~12 | ~59 | Trace |
Alnico 5 | ~8 | ~14 | ~24 | ~52 | Trace |
Alnico 2 vs alnico 5 magnets use different mixes. This makes them sound and feel different.
Tone and Output
The sound of alnico 2 vs alnico 5 magnets is easy to notice. Alnico 2 magnets make a warm and smooth sound. They sound softer and not as sharp. People who like classic or blues music often pick Alnico 2 pickups.
Alnico 5 magnets sound brighter and clearer. They have more high notes and tighter low notes. Many rock and modern players like Alnico 5 for its strong and clear sound.
Summary Table:
Feature | Alnico 2 | Alnico 5 |
|---|---|---|
Magnetic Pull | Softer | Stronger |
Output Level | Lower | Higher |
Tone | Warm, smooth, vintage | Bright, clear, dynamic |
Best For | Blues, classic rock | Rock, pop, modern styles |
When you look at alnico 2 vs alnico 5, think about the sound you want. Each magnet gives a special sound and feel.
Alnico Magnet Basics
What Is Alnico?
Alnico means it is made from aluminum, nickel, and cobalt. These three metals are the main parts of Alnico magnets. Makers sometimes add iron and other small elements to make them work better. Alnico magnets are used in many electric guitar pickups because they give a special mix of strength and sound.
There are different grades of Alnico magnets. Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 are the most used in guitar pickups. Each grade has its own mix of metals. This mix changes how strong the magnet is and how it works with guitar strings. Alnico 2 has more aluminum and less cobalt. Alnico 5 has more cobalt and iron. These changes make the pickup sound and feel different.
Alnico magnets keep their magnetism for a long time. They stay strong for years, so they are good for musical instruments.
Why Use Alnico in Pickups
Makers pick Alnico magnets for pickups because they sound special. Alnico magnets make a warm and open sound. Many players say the sound is vintage or classic. The magnets let the pickup react to how hard or soft you play.
A quick look at other magnet types helps show why Alnico is chosen:
Aspect | Alnico Magnets | Ceramic Magnets | Neodymium Magnets |
|---|---|---|---|
Magnetic Pull | Weaker pull, so signals are weaker and the tone is more dynamic | Stronger pull, so output is higher and signal is louder | Not used much, not explained here |
Tonal Characteristics | Focus on mid to high mid sounds, making vintage, warm, open tones (especially Alnico 2 and 5) | Brighter, tighter sound with sharp attack, good for modern high-gain | Rarely used, not much info |
Output Level | Lower output, liked for vintage, clean, and dynamic tones | Higher output, good for heavy playing styles | N/A |
Usage Preference | Liked by makers for warm tone, vintage sound, and dynamic feel | Picked for higher output and sharp attack in modern pickups | Not common in pickups |
Cost and Availability | Used a lot in classic pickups | Cheaper to make but quality can change | Not used much |
Alnico magnets are special because they give a smooth and musical sound. Players who want a classic or blues sound often choose Alnico pickups. Ceramic magnets sound brighter and more aggressive. Makers use ceramic magnets in pickups for heavy rock or metal. Neodymium magnets are not used much in guitar pickups.
Key reasons manufacturers use Alnico in pickups:
Warm, vintage tone
Dynamic response to playing style
Reliable magnetic strength over time
Preferred for classic and blues music
If you want a traditional sound with rich character, Alnico magnets are the best choice for guitar pickups.
Alnico 2 Magnets
Material Makeup
Alnico 2 magnets are made from a mix of metals. Makers use aluminum, nickel, and cobalt as the main parts. They also add iron to make the magnet stronger and more stable. The usual mix looks like this:
Element | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
Aluminum | ~10 |
Nickel | ~19 |
Cobalt | ~12 |
Iron | ~59 |
Others | Trace |
This mix gives Alnico 2 its special features. It has more aluminum and less cobalt than other types. This makes the magnetic field softer. Makers pick this mix to get a vintage sound in guitar pickups.
Note: The exact amounts can change a little between brands. But the main mix stays the same to keep the classic Alnico 2 sound.
Magnetic Properties
Alnico 2 magnets have a gentle magnetic pull. Their magnetic strength is between 0.246 and 0.256 tesla. This is less than Alnico 5. The weaker field means the magnet does not pull hard on the strings.
Lower pull lets strings move more easily.
The pickup signal stays at a medium level.
The sustain is smooth and natural.
Alnico 2 magnets do not make the strings sound too strong. They help the sound stay balanced. Players hear clear notes that are never harsh.
🎸 Tip: Alnico 2 magnets are good for players who want a soft attack and longer ringing notes.
Tonal Qualities
Alnico 2 magnets change the sound of a pickup in a special way. They give a warm, smooth, and round tone. Many players say the sound is “vintage” or “classic.” The high notes sound sweet, not sharp. The middle notes stand out and make the guitar sound rich. The low notes are soft and easy to control.
Key sound features of Alnico 2 magnets:
Warm and mellow sound
Smooth attack with gentle highs
Strong midrange
Softer bass
Musicians pick Alnico 2 pickups for blues, jazz, and classic rock. The magnets help make playing feel more expressive and lively. The sound changes well when you pick harder or softer. Players can get both clean and a little dirty sounds easily.
Alnico 2 magnets give guitars a sound that feels friendly and musical. Many old guitars use these magnets for their famous sound.
Typical Uses
Alnico 2 magnets are found in many guitar pickups. Makers pick these magnets for their smooth and vintage sound. Players who want a warm tone often use pickups with Alnico 2 magnets.
Common Applications of Alnico 2 Magnets:
Electric Guitar Pickups:
Many old-style single-coil and humbucker pickups have Alnico 2 magnets. These pickups give a soft sound and a mellow tone. Blues and jazz players like this sound. Classic rock players also enjoy the smooth feel.P90 Pickups:
Some P90 pickups use Alnico 2 magnets. These pickups make a rich middle sound and gentle high notes. Players who want a creamy sound often pick P90s with Alnico 2.Archtop and Hollow-Body Guitars:
Jazz players often use archtop guitars with Alnico 2 pickups. The magnets help make a warm and round sound. This tone is good for clean jazz chords and solos.Custom and Boutique Pickups:
Many small pickup makers use Alnico 2 magnets for custom pickups. These pickups are for players who want a special sound. The magnets let players control their tone and dynamics.
🎸 Tip: Players who pick softly or use fingerstyle often like Alnico 2 magnets. The weaker pull lets strings move more, making a natural sound.
Table: Typical Uses of Alnico 2 Magnets in Guitar Pickups
Pickup Type | Music Style | Why Choose Alnico 2? |
|---|---|---|
Single-Coil | Blues, Jazz | Warm, smooth, vintage tone |
Humbucker | Classic Rock | Soft attack, expressive dynamics |
P90 | Indie, Alternative | Creamy mids, gentle highs |
Archtop Pickups | Jazz | Rounded, clean, mellow sound |
Alnico 2 magnets are also used in some bass guitar pickups. These pickups give a softer and rounder low sound. Bass players who want a classic sound often choose Alnico 2.
Some pedal steel and lap steel guitars use pickups with Alnico 2 magnets. These instruments sound smooth and controlled with these magnets.
Summary of Typical Uses:
Old and reissue electric guitars
Jazz and blues guitars
Custom and special pickup designs
Players who want expressive and dynamic sounds
Alnico 2 magnets help players get a classic sound. They are best for people who like warmth, smoothness, and musical feeling.
Alnico 5 Magnets
Material Makeup
Alnico 5 magnets are made with a special mix of metals. Makers use aluminum, nickel, and cobalt. They add more cobalt and iron than in Alnico 2. This makes the magnet stronger and more stable. The usual mix is about 8% aluminum, 14% nickel, 24% cobalt, and 52% iron. Sometimes, there are tiny amounts of other metals. But these four are the main ones.
This mix gives Alnico 5 magnets their special features. More cobalt and iron make the magnetic field stronger. Makers use this mix to get a brighter and louder sound in guitar pickups.
Note: The exact mix can change a little between brands. But the main recipe stays the same to keep the Alnico 5 sound.
Magnetic Properties
Alnico 5 magnets have a strong magnetic pull. Their strength is from 0.250 to 0.264 tesla. This is stronger than Alnico 2. The stronger field pulls harder on guitar strings. Pickups with Alnico 5 magnets sound louder and hit harder.
Stronger magnets make pickups more sensitive.
Notes are louder and clearer.
Sustain is tight and focused.
Alnico 5 magnets do not lose power easily. They stay strong for many years. This makes them good for musical instruments.
🎸 Tip: Players who want more volume and clear sound often pick Alnico 5 pickups.
Tonal Qualities
Alnico 5 magnets change the pickup’s sound in a clear way. They make the tone bright, clear, and lively. Many guitarists say the high notes are crisp and sparkly. The low notes are tight. The middle notes can be strong or softer, depending on the pickup.
The table below shows how Alnico 5 pickups sound in different ways:
Pickup Model | Brightness | Punch / Midrange Characteristics | Output / Tonal Quality Description |
|---|---|---|---|
JB Model | Crisp and detailed highs | Upper-midrange bump adds crunch and chunk | Full and powerful low end; singing, vocal-like quality on solos |
59 Model | Brighter top end | Scooped midrange | Full bottom end; more compressed sound |
Whole Lotta Humbucker | Warmth with added mid-range harmonics | Low-end balance, natural sustain, some compression | Rough cast Alnico V magnet with plain enamel wire; P.A.F.-style wind |
Pegasus | Sparkly top end | Prominent midrange, focused low end | Warm, balanced, lush tone; bloom on chords in high-gain settings |
59/Custom Hybrid | Crunch and bite on top | Mids with a grind suitable for hard rock and metal | Tight low end; harmonically rich hybrid humbucker |
Full Shred | Crisp clarity on high-end | Backed off midrange | Tight and articulate low end; clear, focused tone |
Custom 5 | Even bass and treble response | Scooped midrange | Rich, full tone; high output; versatile for many styles |
Guitarists like Alnico 5 pickups for rock, pop, and modern music. The sound stands out in a band and works well with effects. Solos sound clear, and chords are punchy and sharp.
Alnico 5 magnets give guitars a bright and lively sound. Many players today use this magnet for its strong and clear voice.
Typical Uses
Alnico 5 magnets are used in many new guitar pickups. Makers pick these magnets because they pull strongly and sound bright. Players who want a loud, clear tone often choose Alnico 5 pickups. These magnets work for many music styles that need more power and clear notes.
Common Applications of Alnico 5 Magnets:
Electric Guitar Pickups:
Most new single-coil and humbucker pickups have Alnico 5 magnets. These pickups sound crisp and lively. Rock, pop, and country players like this sound. Alnico 5 helps the guitar stand out in a band or on a recording.Bass Guitar Pickups:
Many bass pickups use Alnico 5 magnets. The strong pull gives bass notes more punch and makes them clearer. Funk, rock, and pop bass players use this to be heard in the mix.P90 Pickups:
Some P90 pickups have Alnico 5 magnets. These pickups sound bright and have strong mids. Players who want a rough, bold sound often pick these.High-Output and Active Pickups:
Alnico 5 magnets are used in many high-output pickups. These pickups are good for heavy rock, metal, and other loud styles.Acoustic Guitar Soundhole Pickups:
Some acoustic pickups use Alnico 5 magnets. These help make the guitar louder but keep the sound clear and bright.
Table: Where You Find Alnico 5 Magnets
Pickup Type | Music Style | Why Use Alnico 5? |
|---|---|---|
Single-Coil | Rock, Country, Pop | Bright, clear, dynamic sound |
Humbucker | Hard Rock, Metal | High output, tight bass, sharp highs |
Bass Pickup | Funk, Rock, Pop | Punchy, defined low end |
P90 | Alternative, Blues | Gritty, expressive, strong mids |
Acoustic Pickup | Folk, Pop, Country | Clear, natural amplified tone |
Tip: Players who use lots of pedals or play in loud bands like Alnico 5 pickups. The extra power helps the guitar stay clear and strong.
Alnico 5 magnets are also found in special pickups for lap steel, pedal steel, and baritone guitars. These guitars need strong magnets for lower notes and thick strings. Alnico 5 gives the power and clear sound needed for these instruments.
Some small pickup makers try new things with Alnico 5 in custom pickups. They might mix Alnico 5 with other magnets to make new sounds. This makes Alnico 5 popular for both big brands and custom pickups.
Alnico 5 magnets are still a top pick for players who want a strong, modern sound. Their power and clear tone help musicians show their style in many kinds of music.
Alnico 2 vs Alnico 5
Comparison Table
When people look at alnico 2 vs alnico 5, they check the details side by side. The table below shows the biggest differences. It lists what each magnet is made of, how strong it is, how it sounds, and where it is used. These things help explain why each magnet gives a different sound and feel in guitar pickups.
Feature | Alnico 2 Magnet | Alnico 5 Magnet |
|---|---|---|
Composition | ~10% Aluminum, ~19% Nickel, ~12% Cobalt, ~59% Iron | ~8% Aluminum, ~14% Nickel, ~24% Cobalt, ~52% Iron |
Magnetic Strength | 0.246 – 0.256 Tesla (2460 – 2560 Gauss) | 0.250 – 0.264 Tesla (2500 – 2640 Gauss) |
Residual Flux | Lower; does not magnetically charge the string as strongly | Higher; stronger magnetic field |
Magnetic Permeability | Higher; more receptive to string movement | Lower; less responsive to subtle changes |
Inductance | ~4.4H (higher) | ~4.1H (lower) |
Dynamic Voltage Output | Compensates for lower flux; output close to Alnico 5 in some pickups | Higher output due to stronger field |
Tonal Profile | Warm, smooth, vintage, strong mids | Bright, clear, dynamic, tight bass |
Overall Output Level | Slightly lower, but not drastically different | Higher, more aggressive |
Common Applications | Blues, jazz, classic rock, vintage reissues | Rock, pop, country, modern styles, high-output |
Note: Tests show that Alnico 5 magnets have a stronger pull. But Alnico 2 magnets can sometimes give almost the same output in some pickups, like in Stratocaster and Telecaster guitars.
Sound Differences
The sound of alnico 2 vs alnico 5 is easy to hear. Each magnet changes the guitar’s voice in its own way. Players notice these changes right away when they play.
Alnico 2 magnets make a warm and smooth sound. The tone feels old-school and soft. The middle notes are rich, and the high notes are sweet, not sharp. The weaker pull lets strings move more, so you get a softer start to each note and longer ringing.
Alnico 5 magnets make the sound brighter and more lively. The tone is sharp with clear highs and tight lows. The stronger pull makes the sound louder and more powerful. Players hear more punch and clear notes, even with effects or in a band.
Tests in labs show these sound changes are real. Alnico 2 magnets have higher magnetic permeability. This means they react more to small changes in how the strings move. This makes the sound feel more alive and expressive. Alnico 5 magnets have higher residual flux. This pushes the output higher and makes the sound sharper and more focused.
Main tonal and output differences:
Alnico 2:
Smoother, vintage sound
Softer start and longer ringing
Warm middle notes
Output is a bit lower, but still lively
Alnico 5:
Brighter, clearer, and stronger sound
Tight bass and sparkling highs
Louder and punchier
Stays clear even when turned up loud
🎸 Players who want a classic and expressive sound often pick Alnico 2. Players who want more power and clear sound for modern music usually go with Alnico 5.
Choosing between alnico 2 vs alnico 5 depends on what sound you like and how you play. Both magnets have their own good points, and both can help you make great music.
Choosing the Right Magnet
Tone Preferences
Picking the right magnet starts with knowing what sound you like. Alnico 2 magnets make a warm, old-school sound. They boost the middle notes and make the high notes softer. Many players say the low notes feel loose and bouncy. This magnet is good for people who want a smooth, classic sound. Alnico 5 magnets sound brighter and more even. They make the lows, mids, and highs all stand out. The guitar sounds open and airy at the top. Players who want clear and sparkly notes often pick Alnico 5. Your choice depends on if you want warmth and smoothness or brightness and clear notes.
🎸 Tip: If you love classic blues or jazz, you might like Alnico 2. If you want a sharp, modern sound, Alnico 5 is a better pick.
Playing Styles
Different ways of playing work better with different magnets. Players who pick softly or use fingerstyle often like Alnico 2. The weaker pull lets the strings move more. This gives longer ringing notes and a softer start to each note. This magnet is good for players who want their touch to change the sound.
Alnico 5 magnets are better for hard strumming or when you need more power. The stronger pull grabs more from the strings. This makes the sound punchy and clear, so it stands out in a band. Rock, pop, and country players often use Alnico 5 for its strong and clear sound.
Playing Style | Recommended Magnet | Reason |
|---|---|---|
Fingerstyle | Alnico 2 | Smooth, dynamic response |
Light picking | Alnico 2 | Warm, expressive tone |
Heavy strumming | Alnico 5 | Bright, clear, high output |
Lead/solo playing | Alnico 5 | Articulate, defined notes |
Application Tips
Guitar techs have some helpful tips for picking and using Alnico magnets:
Alnico 2 magnets are best for a soft, vintage sound with strong mids and loose lows.
Alnico 5 magnets give a balanced sound with strong lows, mids, and highs. They are bright and open, great for classic Fender sounds and loud pickups.
Mixing magnet types can change the sound. Some techs use Alnico 2 for the thin strings to make highs softer. They use Alnico 5 for the thick strings to make lows tighter and clearer. This can change how loud each string is.
Changing magnet strength by pickup spot helps match how much the strings move. Stronger magnets often go at the bridge. Weaker magnets work well at the neck. This setup helps get the best sound and volume.
Picking the right magnet type and strength lets techs shape the guitar’s sound for each player.
🛠️ Note: Trying different magnet mixes and spots can help you find your favorite sound and feel.
Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 magnets both have special benefits for guitar players. Alnico 2 makes the guitar sound warm and old-fashioned. It gives smooth middle notes. Alnico 5 makes the sound brighter and louder. Players should pick the magnet that fits their music style and the sound they want. If you want to learn more, you can look at guides from makers or charts that compare pickups.
FAQ
What makes Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 magnets different in guitar pickups?
Alnico 2 magnets have a softer pull. Alnico 5 magnets pull much stronger. This changes how the pickup sounds and works. Alnico 2 gives a warmer sound. Alnico 5 makes the sound brighter and louder.
Can players mix Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 magnets in one guitar?
Yes, some guitars use both types together. Makers might put Alnico 2 at the neck spot. They use Alnico 5 at the bridge spot. This mix gives both warmth and clear sound.
Which music styles work best with Alnico 2 pickups?
Alnico 2 pickups are good for blues, jazz, and classic rock. These magnets help make a smooth, old-school sound. Players who want mellow and expressive tones pick Alnico 2.
Why do modern guitars often use Alnico 5 magnets?
Alnico 5 magnets give more output and a brighter sound. This helps the guitar stand out in a band. Many rock, pop, and country players like Alnico 5 for its clear and strong sound.
Do Alnico magnets lose strength over time?
Alnico magnets stay strong for many years. Most players never notice them getting weaker. If you take care of your guitar, the magnets will last.
How does magnet strength affect string sustain?
Stronger magnets like Alnico 5 pull harder on strings. If the pickup is too close, notes may not ring as long. Weaker magnets like Alnico 2 let notes ring out longer.
Are Alnico 2 or Alnico 5 pickups better for beginners?
Both types are good for people starting out. Alnico 2 gives a warm and easy sound. Alnico 5 gives more clear and loud sound. Pick the one that fits your music style best.
Can players swap magnets in their pickups?
Yes, trained techs can change magnets in many pickups. Swapping magnets can change how the guitar sounds. Always ask a pro before trying to swap magnets.
