Artec TVFT-A Filtertron Style Alnico 5 Humbucker Set - Fat, Warm Tone

In this review of the Artec TVFT-A Filtertron style humbucker set, the reviewer finds a practical, tone-first pickup pair suited for players who want a warm, chimey voice without high output. Installed in neck and bridge positions, these chrome pickups use Alnico 5 magnets and deliver a solid low-end with rich mids and clear highs, making them a strong option for rock, blues, rockabilly and country players seeking string-defined, bell-like character rather than aggressive gain. Overall the set is a tidy, well-built replacement that emphasizes authentic Filtertron-style clarity and value.

Key Features

• Alnico 5 magnets: provide the classic Filtertron-style tonal balance with a focused midrange and clear, ringing highs.
• Neck and bridge set: matched pieces let players get coherent tone across positions with balanced response from neck to bridge.
• Low output: the 5K neck and 6.5K bridge resistances yield a moderate output that sits well in a mix and preserves note definition for single-coil-like clarity.
• Adjustable pole pieces: two rows of adjustable screws allow string-by-string level adjustment to fine-tune balance and attack.
• Four-conductor wiring: enables coil splitting or alternate wiring options for tonal versatility on guitars wired to accept it.
• Included mounting hardware: the set ships with mounting accessories so installation is straightforward on many guitars, though users should be prepared to use their own screws if needed.

Who It's For

This set is best for players who want a vintage-inspired, chimey Filtertron flavor with a warmer, fatter low end than a single-coil. Guitarists playing rock, rockabilly, blues and country will appreciate the clear highs and rich mids that help notes articulate in rhythm and lead contexts.

Those seeking very high output pickups for heavy overdrive or modern metal may want to look elsewhere, since these are voiced with moderate output and emphasize clarity and string definition over raw power. Also, players who cannot perform minor install modifications should note the manufacturer warns screws may not fit every route.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Warm, fat tone with clear highs and rich mids that suit vintage and roots styles.
• Well-made construction and good value for a matched neck and bridge set.
• Four-conductor leads and adjustable pole pieces provide useful wiring and balance options.

Cons

• Low-to-moderate output means players seeking high-gain punch may find them too tame.
• Screws supplied may not fit every guitar, so alternate mounting screws could be required.

Specifications

Position	Neck and Bridge set
Magnet	Alnico 5
Resistance	Neck 5K, Bridge 6.5K (tolerance 0.5K)
Polepiece spacing	Neck 48mm (1-57/64 in), Bridge 50mm (2-31/32 in)
Mounting screw distance	78mm (3-5/64 in)
Polepieces	Two rows of adjustable screws
Wiring	Four-conductor wires

Our Verdict

The Artec TVFT-A Filtertron style set is a sensible upgrade for players after a warm, articulate Filtertron-like voice without high output. It balances fat low-end with chimey highs and offers practical wiring and adjustment options, making it a strong value for rock, blues and country players who favor clarity and vintage tonal character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these fit standard Filtertron routes?
They are Filtertron style with specific pole spacing and a 78mm mount distance, so they fit many standard routes but check measurements against your guitar before buying.

Can I split the coils?
Yes, the four-conductor wiring allows coil-splitting or alternate wiring if your guitar has the necessary switching and pots.

Are the supplied screws always usable?
The package includes mounting accessories, but the manufacturer notes screws may not fit every guitar, so have replacement screws available if needed.