Description
When it comes to achieving the best Strat pickups for Jimi Hendrix tone, the Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups by Tone Specific stand above the rest. Designed to capture the warm, dynamic, and expressive sound of Jimi Hendrix’s legendary 1968 Stratocaster, these pickups deliver the smooth, full-bodied tone heard at Woodstock in 1969.
For players searching for warm Strat pickups, these handwound pickups provide rich lows, warm mids, and chime-like highs, making them the perfect choice for blues, rock, and psychedelic tones. Whether you're after soaring lead tones or lush, rhythm playing, these pickups bring out the best in your Stratocaster
Inspired by Hendrix’s 1968 Stratocaster at Woodstock
Jimi Hendrix’s performance at Woodstock in 1969 was one of the most iconic moments in rock history. Playing his 1968 Fender Stratocaster, he delivered a powerful, dynamic performance, filled with warm cleans, aggressive overdrive, and stunning feedback control.
The Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups were carefully designed to replicate the warm, rich character of Hendrix’s tone at Woodstock. These pickups provide the same deep, round lows, fat midrange, and glassy highs—perfect for recreating classics like "The Star-Spangled Banner," "Purple Haze," and "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)."
Why Choose Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups?
1. Warmest Strat Pickups for Vintage Tone
✔ Full-bodied lows – Deep and resonant, perfect for Hendrix-style chords
✔ Fat midrange – Bold and punchy, allowing solos to sing effortlessly
✔ Chime-like highs – Smooth and articulate, without harshness
These pickups provide the warmth and musicality missing from many modern Strat pickups, making them ideal for those who want a true vintage sound.
2. Unmatched Dynamic Response & Sensitivity
Hendrix’s playing style was defined by his expressive touch and masterful control of dynamics. The Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups respond beautifully to your playing, whether you're gently picking for clean passages or digging in for explosive leads.
3. Handwound for Authentic 1969 Tone
Every Virgil Arlo pickup is handwound using vintage-correct techniques, ensuring the most accurate reproduction of classic late-'60s Fender Strat pickups. The result? A rich, three-dimensional tone with the warmth and depth of real 1960s pickups.
4. Perfect for Fuzz, Overdrive & Effects
Hendrix’s tone was heavily influenced by his use of effects like the Fuzz Face, Uni-Vibe, and Wah pedal. The Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups are designed to handle effects beautifully, delivering smooth sustain and warm distortion without ever sounding harsh or brittle.
5. Trusted by Pro Players & Tone Purists
Many professional musicians and serious tone chasers consider Virgil Arlo pickups to be the best option for warm, vintage-inspired Strat tones. If you want to unlock the soulful, expressive sound of a late-'60s Strat, these pickups are a must-have upgrade.
Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups vs. Stock Strat Pickups
| Feature | Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups | Standard Strat Pickups |
|---|---|---|
| True 1969 Vintage Tone | ✅ Yes – Closest to Hendrix’s Woodstock tone | ❌ No – Often lacks warmth |
| Handwound for Authenticity | ✅ Yes – Vintage-correct winding techniques | ❌ No – Factory-made in bulk |
| Dynamic Response & Sensitivity | ✅ Excellent – Reacts to every nuance | ❌ Limited – Can feel stiff or compressed |
| Fat Mids & Smooth Highs | ✅ Balanced, full, and warm | ❌ Inconsistent across models |
| Perfect for Fuzz & Overdrive | ✅ Handles gain and effects naturally | ❌ Can sound brittle or muddy |
| Used by Professional Players | ✅ Yes – Trusted by top session musicians | ❌ Rarely found in pro rigs |
| Price-to-Performance Ratio | ✅ Outstanding – Worth every penny for true vintage tone | ❌ Expensive but lacks organic feel |
Unlock the Warm, Expressive Sound of Hendrix’s 1968 Strat
If you're looking for the best Strat pickups for Jimi Hendrix tone, the Virgil Arlo 1969 Strat Pickups offer the warmth, power, and depth needed to recreate Hendrix’s legendary Woodstock performance. These are the warmest Strat pickups for players who want vintage tone with modern reliability.
🎸 Experience the warmth and magic of a true 1969 Strat pickup today!
Limited Edition - Get Them While You Can
The 1969 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.