Wilkinson Alnico 5 Telecaster Single Coil Pickups Set - Classic Tele

In this review the Wilkinson Alnico 5 Single Coil Pickup set is presented as a straightforward replacement option for players seeking classic Telecaster tone without a complex installation. The set includes neck and bridge pickups with Alnico V magnets and wax potted coils, and it is aimed at guitarists who want a clear, resonant single coil voice that sits well in mixed-band contexts. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of traditional magnetic material and modest DC resistance, which delivers familiar Tele snap and articulate string definition.

Key Features

• Classic tele design: The pickups use a Tele style form and spacing intended to fit most regular tele guitars, providing the expected bright and twangy tonal character.
• Alnico V magnets: The Alnico 5 magnet offers strong attack and clarity for single coil voicings, helping notes cut through a band mix.
• Wax potted coils: Wax potting reduces microphonic feedback for more usable gain and cleaner amplified tone at higher volumes.
• Replaceable positions: The set includes both neck and bridge units so you can directly swap pickups for a balanced tele setup.
• Clear wiring convention: Black is ground and white is hot, simplifying installation and wiring consistency when replacing pickups.
• Included hardware: Screws and springs are provided to aid mounting, though users may need their own screws if fit differs.

Who It's For

These pickups suit hobbyists and gigging players who want an affordable route to classic Telecaster tones without changing their instrument significantly. Players who like articulate single coil sound for country, blues, rock, and clean rhythm work will find the Alnico 5 magnet and the stated DC resistance deliver the expected clarity and bite.

Those who should look elsewhere include players needing custom-wound values, specialized noiseless designs, or precisely matched screw dimensions for an unconventional Tele build. Also, if you require guaranteed screw compatibility for a vintage or modified bridge, plan to use your own hardware if the supplied screws do not fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Faithful Tele tone from the Alnico V magnets that many customers describe as resonant and clear.
• Wax potted coils reduce feedback and improve usability at higher volumes.
• Both neck and bridge pickups included for a matched Tele setup and straightforward replacement.
• Simple wiring convention makes installation easier for DIY swaps.

Cons

• Supplied screws may not fit every guitar, so some users will need to reuse existing hardware.
• DC resistance ranges are broad, which can lead to slight variance between batches if precise matching is required.

Specifications

Product type	Alnico 5 single coil Tele pickups set (neck & bridge)
Magnet	Alnico V
DC resistance - Neck	6.3 to 7.3K ohm
DC resistance - Bridge	6.4 to 7.4K ohm
Neck pole spacing	1.968 in (50mm)
Bridge pole spacing	2.126 in (54mm)
Accessories included	2 pickups (neck & bridge), screws and springs

Our Verdict

The Wilkinson Alnico 5 Telecaster pickup set is a practical, value-oriented choice for players who want authentic Tele character without exotic specs. With Alnico V magnets, wax potting, and both neck and bridge units included, it delivers classic tone and reasonable reliability. It is especially good for DIY upgrades and standard Tele replacements, though shoppers should be prepared to use their own screws if fitment differs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these pickups fit any Telecaster?
They are designed for most regular Tele style guitars using 50mm neck and 54mm bridge pole spacing, but screw fit may vary so some users will need their own mounting screws.

What wire colors indicate hot and ground?
The kit uses black as ground and white as the hot lead, which simplifies wiring.

Are the pickups noisy or hum-canceling?
These are standard single coil pickups that are wax potted to reduce microphonics, but they are not hum-canceling designs.