What is included in the Gristle Tone set?

The set includes a bridge and neck pickup specifically designed for Telecaster-style guitars. It also typically includes the necessary control plate components to facilitate the dual-voice switching.

Do these pickups require a battery?

Yes, as part of the Fishman Fluence line, these are active pickups. They require a power source, typically a rechargeable battery pack or a 9V battery, to operate their internal circuitry.

Are the pickups hum-free?

Yes, the Gristle Tone set is completely hum-free. The Fluence technology eliminates the 60-cycle hum commonly found in traditional single-coil pickups.

What is the primary sound of Voice 1?

Voice 1 is described as open and airy. It is ideal for traditional country styles, chicken pickin, and rhythm playing where clarity is paramount.

What is the primary sound of Voice 2?

Voice 2 provides a fat, punchy character. It offers more sustain and a thicker mid-range, which is effective for lead playing and overdriven tones.

Do I need to route my guitar to install these?

No, the set is designed to be installed without permanent modifications. It is intended to fit standard Telecaster pickup routes and control cavities.

Greg Koch is a highly respected American guitarist known for his technical proficiency and association with the Telecaster. This set was designed to his specific tonal requirements.

Can I switch voices while playing?

Yes, the system uses a simple switch that allows the player to toggle between Voice 1 and Voice 2 instantaneously during a performance.

How does Fluence technology differ from standard pickups?

Standard pickups use hand-wound or machine-wound copper wire, which can lead to inconsistencies. Fluence uses printed coils to ensure every pickup sounds identical and remains noise-free.

Is this set suitable for heavy metal?

While primarily designed for 'Gristle' (blues, rock, and country), the hum-free nature and Voice 2's punch make it capable of handling higher gain than standard single coils.

What is the typical price for this set?

The Fishman Fluence Greg Koch Gristle Tone set typically retails for approximately £347.

What does 'flawless articulation' refer to in the description?

It refers to the pickup's ability to maintain note definition and clarity. This ensures that even when playing complex chords or fast lines, each note remains distinct.

Gear article

Fishman Fluence Greg Koch Gristle Tone Pickup Tele Set

The Fishman Fluence Greg Koch Gristle Tone Pickup Tele Set is a signature active pickup system designed for T-style electric guitars. It utilizes Fishman's proprietary Fluence Core technology to provide two distinct voicings and hum-free performance without requiring permanent body modifications.

See live prices

Overview

The Fishman Fluence Greg Koch Gristle Tone Pickup Tele Set is a high-performance replacement electronics package for Telecaster-style guitars. Developed in collaboration with renowned guitarist Greg Koch, the set aims to solve common issues associated with traditional single-coil pickups, such as 60-cycle hum and signal loss, while maintaining the iconic 'twang' and 'snap' associated with the instrument.

Fluence Core Technology

Unlike traditional pickups that rely on wire coils wrapped around magnets, the Gristle Tone set uses Fishman's Fluence Core technology. This involves layered, printed circuits that provide consistent results across every unit. This design allows for complete elimination of background noise and interference, providing a flawless articulation that remains clear even through high-gain signal chains.

Dual Voicing and Controls

The set is unique for its dual-voice capability, which is toggled via a dedicated switch.

Voice 1 (White Guard): Offers an open, airy sound. This setting is specifically calibrated for 'chicken pickin' and big strumming styles, providing the clarity and treble response of a classic early 50s Telecaster.
Voice 2 (Black Guard): Delivers a fatter, punchier sound. This voice increases the mid-range response and sustain, making it suitable for searing lead lines and rock-oriented performance.

Installation and Compatibility

One of the primary benefits of the Gristle Tone set is its 'non-destructive' design. The system is engineered to be installed without the need for permanent modifications to the guitar's woodwork. It typically includes the necessary pots and hardware required for a full electronics overhaul, ensuring the pickups operate at their intended impedance.

Market Comparison

While standard replacement parts like the Fender American Standard Stratocaster Tremolo Bridge or Gotoh 203B-4 Bass Bridge focus on mechanical stability, the Gristle Tone set addresses the fundamental electronic character of the guitar. It competes with high-end boutique single coils but offers the distinct advantage of two switchable profiles and active, hum-free operation that passive alternatives cannot match.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Gristle Tone set?: The set includes a bridge and neck pickup specifically designed for Telecaster-style guitars. It also typically includes the necessary control plate components to facilitate the dual-voice switching.
Do these pickups require a battery?: Yes, as part of the Fishman Fluence line, these are active pickups. They require a power source, typically a rechargeable battery pack or a 9V battery, to operate their internal circuitry.
Are the pickups hum-free?: Yes, the Gristle Tone set is completely hum-free. The Fluence technology eliminates the 60-cycle hum commonly found in traditional single-coil pickups.
What is the primary sound of Voice 1?: Voice 1 is described as open and airy. It is ideal for traditional country styles, chicken pickin, and rhythm playing where clarity is paramount.
What is the primary sound of Voice 2?: Voice 2 provides a fat, punchy character. It offers more sustain and a thicker mid-range, which is effective for lead playing and overdriven tones.
Do I need to route my guitar to install these?: No, the set is designed to be installed without permanent modifications. It is intended to fit standard Telecaster pickup routes and control cavities.
Who is Greg Koch?: Greg Koch is a highly respected American guitarist known for his technical proficiency and association with the Telecaster. This set was designed to his specific tonal requirements.
Can I switch voices while playing?: Yes, the system uses a simple switch that allows the player to toggle between Voice 1 and Voice 2 instantaneously during a performance.
How does Fluence technology differ from standard pickups?: Standard pickups use hand-wound or machine-wound copper wire, which can lead to inconsistencies. Fluence uses printed coils to ensure every pickup sounds identical and remains noise-free.
Is this set suitable for heavy metal?: While primarily designed for 'Gristle' (blues, rock, and country), the hum-free nature and Voice 2's punch make it capable of handling higher gain than standard single coils.
What is the typical price for this set?: The Fishman Fluence Greg Koch Gristle Tone set typically retails for approximately £347.
What does 'flawless articulation' refer to in the description?: It refers to the pickup's ability to maintain note definition and clarity. This ensures that even when playing complex chords or fast lines, each note remains distinct.