John Henry PAF Replica
The most faithful PAF recreation ever made
PAF Replica Pickups
The John Henry PAF replica humbuckers are meticulously hand-built to faithfully replicate the aesthetics but most of all the iconic tone of the revered 1957-1962 PAFs. They embody the culmination of years of dedicated research, striving to provide unparalleled historical accuracy and authenticity.
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Crafted with precision, our CAB (Cellulose Acetate Butyrate) bobbins faithfully replicate those from the late '50s, capturing their various molding details. The winding process employs authentic 42 AWG Plain Enamel wire, wound on an automatic traverse machine that precisely duplicate the pattern produced by the renowned Leesona 102, thus preserving the essence of vintage PAF coils. The turns count and coil mismatch are expertly adjusted to match those observed in genuine PAF pickups. This defines the output characteristics of the pickups and plays a pivotal role in capturing the subtle harmonic nuances that define their legendary sound. As in the originals, the coils feature an internal start lead, a detail that enhances microphonics.
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The polepieces comprise ultra-low carbon steel pole screws featuring correctly shaped fillister-heads, along with 1215 steel slugs that exhibit the iconic bullseye pattern resulting from the cutting process. Beneath the bobbins, a period-correct extruded mild steel keeper bar, machined flat, is accompanied by a hard maple spacer, adhering faithfully to vintage specifications.
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The magnet bars are sand-cast from the most vintage-accurate alloy formulations and processing, utilizing the various Alnico grades seen on vintage PAFs. These Alnico bar magnets play a crucial role in shaping the EQ profile.
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Our nickel-silver base plate is stamped with precise tooling, resulting in the characteristic “L-marks”, and also features threading pole screw holes, enhancing structural solidity. Even the brass mounting screws are identical to those used in the era. To complete the aesthetic appeal, a silkscreened decal adds an additional touch of vintage charm.
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Remaining faithful to tradition, each PAF replica is outfitted with vintage-correct waxed cloth wire with a two-strand hook-up braid, and remains unpotted, mirroring the construction of the originals. This design choice allows the genuine character of the pickup to resonate freely, ensuring unparalleled clarity and dynamics.​ There are many more intricate details involved in the creation of these pickups, far too numerous to list exhaustively!
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The John Henry PAF replica pickups are available in three versions inspired by the variety of vintage examples, each offering a choice of bobbin color combinations, including black, vintage white, zebra, reverse zebra, and nickel or gold plating.​
PAF Options
PAF Replica 1
7.5 kΩ long A2 Neck
7.9 kΩ long A2 Bridge
PAF Replica 1 is a low output set that delivers an open and dynamic tone. The neck pickup is sweet and smooth with excellent string separation. The bridge pickup produces an articulate and bright sound, with detailed and responsive trebles.
PAF Replica 2
7.7 kΩ long A2 Neck
8.2 kΩ long unoriented A5 Bridge
PAF Replica 2 is a moderate output set of remarkable versatility. The neck pickup provides a warm creamy tone that retains a clear top-end. The bridge pickup sounds sparkling, with powerful singing mids. The middle switch position is a great mix.
PAF Replica 3
8.0 kΩ long A4 Neck
8.7 kΩ long A5 Bridge
PAF Replica 3 has a higher output with more compression and harmonic complexity. The neck pickup is fat and bold, with defined bass. The bridge pickup has plenty of grith and punch, ringing but not harsh highs.
Pat. No Replica Pickups
In addition to our acclaimed PAF replica pickups, we proudly introduce our exact reproductions of the 1962-1967 pre-T-Top Pat. No humbuckers. Remaining true to our commitment to authenticity, we utilize all period-correct components found in our PAFs, including butyrate bobbins, low-carbon steel parts, and vintage base plates. With unwavering attention to detail, we honor the unique characteristics of this era.
Each bobbin is wound with the same turns per layer count as the originals made on a Meteor ME-301 machine, with minimal variation in turns count. Additionally, we incorporate period-correct A2 and A5 short magnets for an authentic vintage sound.​
Our pre-T-Top Pat. No humbuckers are available in two distinct versions. The first version features purplish-brown Plain Enamel wire and double black leads, reminiscent of the early Pat. No pickups (and late PAFs). In contrast, the second version showcases poly-nylon magnet wire in a reddish hue, accompanied by black and white lead wires, with the start positioned outside the coil. Both versions are exclusively offered with black bobbins, preserving the aesthetic integrity of these revered reproductions.​
Pat. No Options
Pat. No Replica 1
7.5 kΩ short A2 Neck, 7.5 kΩ short A5 Bridge
PAT# Replica 1 is a set that stands out for its reactivity to the picking attack. It provides an articulate and rich tone, brilliant yet full.
Pat. No Replica 2
7.4 kΩ short A2 Neck, 7.4 kΩ short A5 Bridge
PAT# Replica 2 is brighter and exceptionally responsive to the guitar's controls. The dynamic is lively, the tone tight and focused.
PAF Replica Covers
John Henry PAF Replica covers are meticulously crafted to capture the essence of vintage guitar pickups. Made from nickel-silver of optimal thickness, these covers are formed through deep draw stamping and flush-cutting processes using custom dies, ensuring precise replication of every detail.
Each cover undergoes belt-grinding and polishing by hand, showcasing traditional craftsmanship of the highest caliber. True to the originals, every aspect is faithfully copied, from the contour of faces and corners to the characteristic dimpled screw holes. Their flat top not only enhances the vintage aesthetic but also provides a secure fit over bobbins, ensuring optimal performance.
These covers are available in nickel or gold plating, both of which undergo a thin hand-buffed copper-less electroplating process. This technique not only enhances their appearance but also preserves the brightness of tone, maintaining the sonic integrity prized by vintage guitar enthusiasts.
M-69 Replica Mounting Rings
Crafted with precision and passion, our M-69 replica mounting rings redefine authenticity and attention to detail in the world of guitar parts. Molded from soft butyrate plastic, these rings effortlessly conform to the contours of any guitar top, ensuring a seamless fit and a timeless aesthetic.
Employing the same steel mold and gate process utilized in the production of '50s humbucker rings, our M-69 replicas are imbued with the essence of vintage craftsmanship. From the meticulously replicated underside features, including molding anomalies and marks, to the spot-on texture and color, each element exudes an unparalleled commitment to historical accuracy.
The set includes period-correct pickup height screws, springs, and mounting ring screws, selected to complete the vintage experience. Whether you choose vintage white or black, these mounting rings serve as the perfect complement to your PAF set.
Aging
​Experience the authentic vintage vibe! Our pickups and parts are meticulously aged to perfection, offering two levels of aging: standard (included) and optional heavy.
When you choose our pickups, you're not just getting a replica; you're getting an instrument that embodies the essence of a bygone era in the world of electric guitar tone.
Samples
Listen to a set of John Henry PAF Replica 2 in action!
Guitar: Gibson 1958 Les Paul Standard Reissue
Amp: DV Mark Little 40 II
Mic: Sennheiser e609
IMPORTANT INFORMATION!
To make a purchase, add the PAF or PAT# replica pickup set you desire to the cart. The covers, which can be purchased individually or in pairs, must be added separately, as well as the mounting rings and the heavy aging option.
Zebra humbuckers have a white/cream screw bobbin, while Reverse zebra have a black screw bobbin.
If you need a single pickup or a set of three, please send us an inquiry. For any questions or special requests, please don't hesitate to contact us.
We recommend a '50s style wiring harness with 500k+ pots and quality capacitors. Take your time to adjust pickups and pole screws height.
Handmade in Italy
