Description
If you're searching for the best Strat pickups for SRV tone, the Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups by Tone Specific are the ultimate choice. Designed to capture the rich, dynamic, and soulful tone of a 1959 Fender Stratocaster, these pickups deliver the legendary sound heard in Stevie Ray Vaughan’s iconic “Number One” Strat.
From the powerful bluesy attack of Pride and Joy to the smooth, expressive sustain of Lenny, Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups offer the closest experience to playing a true late-‘50s Strat, making them the best pickups for a Stevie Ray Strat tone.
Why Choose Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups?
1. Legendary 1959 Stratocaster Tone – Inspired by SRV’s “Number One”
Stevie Ray Vaughan’s famous “Number One” Strat featured a 1959 Fender Stratocaster body and a signature warm-yet-powerful tone. The Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups are meticulously handwound to recreate the same thick lows, glassy highs, and dynamic midrange that defined SRV’s legendary sound.
2. Perfect Balance of Power and Clarity
Unlike modern pickups that can sound sterile or overly compressed, these pickups deliver the raw, open tone of a vintage Stratocaster. Expect:
✔ Fat low-end for punchy Texas blues rhythms
✔ Smooth, singing highs for soulful leads
✔ Balanced mids that cut through the mix without harshness
3. Superior Touch Sensitivity for Expressive Playing
SRV’s playing was full of dynamics and attack, and the Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups respond effortlessly to your touch. Whether you dig in for aggressive blues licks or soften up for warm, clean tones, these pickups react with unmatched sensitivity and sustain.
4. Handwound for True Vintage Accuracy
Virgil Arlo’s winding process follows the exact techniques used in the late ‘50s, ensuring that each pickup delivers the same harmonic richness, warmth, and clarity as a true 1959 Fender Stratocaster pickup.
5. Trusted by Professional Blues and Rock Guitarists
Many professional players and tone purists consider these to be the best pickups for a Stevie Ray Strat, thanks to their ability to replicate the bold and dynamic character of SRV’s signature sound.
Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups vs. Regular Boutique Pickups
| Feature | Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups | Standard Strat Pickups |
|---|---|---|
| True SRV Vintage Tone | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Handwound for Authenticity | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Fat Lows & Glassy Highs | ✅ Perfectly Balanced | ❌ Inconsistent |
| Touch Sensitivity & Dynamics | ✅ Exceptional | ❌ Limited |
| Trusted by Blues & Rock Pros | ✅ Yes | ❌ Rare |
Upgrade Your Strat with the Best Pickups for Stevie Ray Strat Tone
If you’re chasing the ultimate SRV tone, the Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups offer the power, warmth, and dynamic range needed to recreate the bold and expressive sound of Stevie Ray Vaughan. Whether you’re playing Texas blues, rock, or clean, expressive leads, these pickups bring your Strat to life with true vintage character.
🎸 Unleash the legendary tone of SRV’s “Number One” Strat with Virgil Arlo 1959 Strat Pickups!
Limited Edition - Get Them While You Can
The 1959 Virgil Arlo Black Label Strat Pickups were originally sold for $1000 per set. This set is no longer available. Please check ebay or Reverb for used sets.
You can achieve similar results with our Deluxe Strat Set, which is considered by many to be the best Strat Pickups ever made.