Take the tour ×  I have seen a number of different pickup
designs, like the ones in the image:  Notice how some humbuckers
have a covering, and what look like screw heads.  Is this just
style or do these different types serve different purposes in
the guitar world?  What would be the difference if there is any?
share|improve this question add comment  2 Answers  up vote 9
down vote accepted  I used to pull off the covers on my old
humbuckers, but, frankly, I couldn't hear a difference. I would
hear a difference when I substituted new magnets.  I think it's
possible there is a very, very minor change, but in general
you're more likely to hear a change rewinding the coils,
replacing magnets, adjusting the pole-pieces, or using a more-
metalic string.  Many ads I've read for uncovered pickups make
the comment that they offer an uncovered version for the people
who like the look, implying that is the only difference.
share|improve this answer Great answer. It's 99% aesthetic. – 
Jduv Jan 16 '11 at 21:58 What abo