Info on unknown pickup?

[Styles B.]

Hi folks,

Can anyone tell me about the pickup that came installed on the 70s Martin I just bought? There seems to be a logo of some kind but no other discernible markings. Also, they appear to be glued into the soundboard, rather than the big ole mahogany bridge plate. Is that a mistake?

Thanks.

[LAPlayer]

With more than 3 decades playing Martin guitars, I've never seen a pickup like that. I'm interested in seeing if it's a one-off or prototype.

[GCWaters]

Similar to several Barcus Berry’s from that era, but not exactly…a BB knockoff maybe?

[Mandobart]

Interesting that they used a screw-in output jack. Looks very similar to this one which I've only used on instruments that I can't get my hands inside to install a standard switchjack (violins, violas, archtop guitars).

[Styles B.]

Originally Posted by Mandobart

Interesting that they used a screw-in output jack. Looks very similar to this one which I've only used on instruments that I can't get my hands inside to install a standard switchjack (violins, violas, archtop guitars).

Yes, that looks pretty similar. Does this screw it type damage the end hole? I'm wondering if I should just remove the thing and pop an end pin in. It looks pretty DIY.

[Mandobart]

Originally Posted by Styles B.

Yes, that looks pretty similar. Does this screw it type damage the end hole? I'm wondering if I should just remove the thing and pop an end pin in. It looks pretty DIY.

No damage that I've ever encountered. I've used these on 5 instruments. The only thing is to install it you have to pull the pickup leads out the jack hole, solder it up, screw in the jack and THEN mount the pickup. Otherwise you'll twist and damage the leads.

If/when you want to change the jack, you have to remove the pickup first before unscrewing the jack, or again you'll twist the leads too much.

Also, IIRC the OD of the screw-in jack is a little bigger than the hole you want for a standard switchjack.

[Styles B.]

Originally Posted by Mandobart

No damage that I've ever encountered. I've used these on 5 instruments. The only thing is to install it you have to pull the pickup leads out the jack hole, solder it up, screw in the jack and THEN mount the pickup. Otherwise you'll twist and damage the leads.

If/when you want to change the jack, you have to remove the pickup first before unscrewing the jack, or again you'll twist the leads too much.

Also, IIRC the OD of the screw-in jack is a little bigger than the hole you want for a standard switchjack.

Thank you!