DiMarzio DP100BK Super Distortion Black - Classic High-Output

Our review of the DiMarzio DP100BK Super Distortion finds it is a go-to replacement bridge humbucker for players chasing thick, mid-forward drive and classic 80s rock and metal tone. Designed originally to push tube amps into overdrive, this pickup delivers the single biggest reason to buy: reliably loud, harmonically rich output that makes both single-note leads and full chords cut through a mix. The review focuses on how the mid-boosted voicing and ceramic magnet behave in typical guitar rigs and how straightforward installation and wiring make it accessible to most players.

Key Features

• Hot output and mid-boost: Drives tube amps harder for sustained lead tones and aggressive rhythm crunch that sit forward in a band mix.
• Ceramic magnet: Provides a tight low end and bright top end that accentuates pick attack for defined distortion tones.
• Coil-splitting capable: Lets players access single-coil-like clarity for cleaner or thinner textures without changing the pickup.
• Bridge/Neck compatibility: Built for use in the bridge position but voiced to retain clarity on single notes and chords.
• Simplified wiring: Supplied wiring diagrams and straightforward connections make swaps and installs quick for most users.

Who It's For

Players who primarily play rock, hard rock, or metal and want a vintage-proven, high-output humbucker will find the Super Distortion a solid match. It suits lead players who need sustain and midrange presence, and rhythm players who want chunky, full chords that cut through.

Those seeking pristine clean jazz tones or ultra-modern scooped-mid metal may want to consider alternate pickups; the Super Distortion emphasizes boosted mids and a strong low-mid presence rather than glassy cleans or extreme scooped voicings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful, mid-forward tone that reliably pushes tube amps into saturated overdrive.
• Durable ceramic magnet construction that tightens lows and preserves high-end clarity.
• Coil-splitting capability adds useful tonal variety for cleaner passages.
• Good build and wiring quality with diagrams that make installation approachable.

Cons

• Not ideal for players seeking very scooped modern metal tones or ultra-clean jazz voicings.
• Hot output may require amp or EQ adjustments to sit perfectly in some mixes.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The DiMarzio DP100BK Super Distortion is a dependable, historically significant high-output humbucker that offers excellent value for players wanting powerful mids, tight lows, and versatile coil-splitting. It is especially recommended for rock and metal guitarists who want a straightforward swap to achieve classic overdriven tones without elaborate EQ work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this pickup be coil-split?
Yes, the Super Distortion supports coil-splitting to give more single-coil-like tones when wired for that function.

Is the pickup easy to install?
Yes, customers report clear wiring diagrams and a typical install time of around 15 minutes for standard setups.

What kind of magnet does it use?
The DP100BK uses a ceramic magnet, which helps deliver tight lows and pronounced highs suited to overdriven sounds.