Gear article

Fishman Fluence Tosin Abasi 7-String Humbucker Set

The Fishman Fluence Tosin Abasi 7-String Humbucker Set is a high-performance active pickup system designed for extended-range guitars. Utilising a ceramic magnet in the bridge and alnico in the neck, this set provides three distinct switchable voices tailored for technical and percussive playing styles.

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Overview

The Fishman Fluence Tosin Abasi signature set is engineered to meet the demands of modern progressive metal and fusion guitarists. Unlike traditional wire-wound pickups, these use Fluence core technology to eliminate noise and signal degradation issues. The set is specifically tuned for 7-string instruments, ensuring that the low B string remains articulate while maintaining clarity across the higher registers.

Technical Specifications and Mechanics

This humbucker set employs a hybrid magnetic approach. The bridge unit utilizes a ceramic magnet to enhance output and bite, while the neck/middle unit uses alnico for a smoother, more fluid response. The system is active and requires a power source, typically a 9V battery or a rechargeable Fishman battery pack. Users can toggle between three distinct voicings via a push-pull potentiometer or a dedicated mini-toggle switch, allowing for significant tonal flexibility without changing instruments.

Sound Character and Voicings

The Tosin Abasi set is defined by its three distinct sonic profiles:

  • Voice 1: A modern, aggressive tone. It features a bold midrange that provides weight to riffs without sacrificing the definition of the highs or the tightness of the lows.
  • Voice 2: Optimized for technical speed. The neck position is deep yet clear, while the bridge remains cutting. This voice is characterized by a detailed top end and a percussive attack, ideal for thumping and complex lead work.
  • Voice 3: A versatile rock voicing. It combines the cutting midrange found in overwound humbuckers with the glassy, transparent high-end associated with vintage P.A.F. style pickups.

Player Suitability

These pickups are specifically intended for players who require extremely fast articulation and high levels of detail. They are particularly suited for technical genres where complex chords and rapid-fire rhythmic patterns are common. The inclusion of the 'Voice 3' vintage-style tone also makes them a viable option for session players who need to cover hard rock and classic rock genres within the same 7-string rig.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard passive 7-string pickups, the Fluence Tosin Abasi set offers significantly lower noise floors and consistent tone across different cable lengths. While other Fishman Fluence models might offer two voices, this signature set provides three, offering a broader range of 'PAF-to-Modern' transitions. Its specific emphasis on percussive attack and fast tracking distinguishes it from more traditional, slower-responding high-gain humbuckers.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary magnet type used in the bridge pickup?
The bridge pickup in this set utilizes a ceramic magnet, which is chosen for its aggressive output and sharp, cutting response.
What magnet type does the neck pickup use?
The neck/middle pickup utilizes an alnico magnet, providing a deeper and slightly warmer character compared to the ceramic bridge.
How many voices are available in the Tosin Abasi set?
There are three distinct voices available, which can be selected using a push-pull voice selector or similar switching mechanism.
What characterizes Voice 1 of this set?
Voice 1 is a modern, aggressive, and heavy sound featuring a bold midrange that maintains clarity in the high and low frequencies.
How does Voice 2 differ from Voice 1?
Voice 2 is designed for percussive attack and speed. It offers a deep yet bright neck tone and a cutting bridge tone with a very detailed top end.
What is the inspiration behind Voice 3?
Voice 3 provides a classic rock tone, blending the midrange of an overwound humbucker with the glassy highs typical of a vintage P.A.F. pickup.
Are these pickups suitable for 6-string guitars?
This specific set is designed for 7-string guitars to accommodate the wider string spacing and extended frequency range of those instruments.
Do these pickups require a battery?
Yes, as part of the Fishman Fluence active line, they require a 9V battery or an optional rechargeable battery pack to operate.
What makes these pickups 'fast'?
The manufacturer describes them as having extremely fast articulation, meaning they react very quickly to the player's pick attack, which is essential for complex playing styles.
Can these pickups produce vintage tones?
Yes, Voice 3 is specifically designed to provide a hard rock and vintage P.A.F.-style tone, offering versatility beyond modern metal.
What is the typical price for this set in the UK?
The typical price range for the Fishman Fluence Tosin Abasi 7-String Humbucker Set is approximately £245.
Does the set include both neck and bridge pickups?
Yes, it is sold as a complete set featuring a ceramic bridge humbucker and an alnico neck humbucker.