Mojo Pickups Telecaster vs Broadcaster Pickup Comparison

This website comparison breaks down the two most iconic vintage-style Telecaster sets from Mojo Pickups: the ’52 Telecaster (often referred to as the Blackguard set) and the Broadcaster.

While both sets are hand-wound in the UK and share the same shape/footprint, they offer distinct tonal “flavours” based on their magnets, wire gauges, and output levels.

At a Glance: Key Differences

Feature ’52 Telecaster Broadcaster
Bridge Output ~7.3kΩ (Vintage spec) ~10kΩ (Hot/Fat)
Bridge Wire 42 AWG 43 AWG
Magnet Type Alnico 5 (Non-staggered) Alnico 3 (Flush)
Baseplate 1.2mm Copper-plated steel 1.5mm Zinc-plated
Coil Protection White String Wrap Black String Wrap
Primary Tone Snap, Twang, Percussive Gristle, Growl, Smooth

1. Tone & Character

  • ’52 Telecaster Set: This is the “classic” Telecaster sound. It uses Alnico 5 magnets, which provide a punchy, tight low end and a sparkling, percussive high end. It is designed for that unmistakable “Blackguard” twang and “bloom.” If you want your guitar to cut through a mix with clarity and “snap,” this is the set.

  • Broadcaster Set: Replicates the very first solid-body pickups from 1950–51. Because the bridge is wound much hotter (~10k) and uses Alnico 3 magnets, the tone is “fatter” and smoother. It has a mid-range growl (often called “gristle”) that handles overdrive beautifully. The top end is sweet and rounded, never becoming “ice-picky” or harsh.

2. Technical Specifications

  • Winding Style: Both sets are hand-wound and scatter-wound by Marc at Mojo Pickups. This technique reduces capacitance compared to machine-wound pickups, resulting in a more open, lively response.

  • Bridge Construction: * The ’52 set uses a 1.2mm copper-plated steel baseplate, which is the standard for classic twang.

    • The Broadcaster uses a thicker 1.5mm zinc-plated baseplate. This added mass contributes to the Broadcaster’s famous punch and slightly darker, more authoritative “thump.”

  • Neck Pickups: Interestingly, both sets feature a neck pickup wound to approximately 7.0kΩ. However, the Broadcaster set uses Alnico 3 for a smoother, woodier jazz/blues feel, while the ’52 set’s Alnico 5 magnets offer a slightly glassier, more “hifi” neck tone.

More about Alnico magnets [Here]

3. Aesthetics & Historical Accuracy

  • Visuals: Mojo Pickups pays close attention to period-correct details. The ’52 set features the historically accurate white string wrap around the bridge coil. The Broadcaster set uses the black string wrap, consistent with the earliest 1950 Fender designs.

  • Bobbins: Both use punched flatwork (rather than modern laser-cutting) to ensure the physical feel and magnetic field match the vintage originals.

Which one should you choose?

Choose the ’52 Telecaster Set if:

  • You want the definitive “Country” or “Rockabilly” twang.

  • You prefer a bridge pickup that is bright, articulate, and percussive.

  • You play mostly clean or with light “edge of breakup” overdrive.

  • You want the classic Alnico 5 “pop.”

Choose the Broadcaster Set if:

  • You find standard Tele bridge pickups too “thin” or “piercing.”

  • You want a “hotter” bridge pickup that can push an amp into a creamy growl.

  • You prefer the smoother, warmer compression of Alnico 3 magnets.

  • You want a guitar that feels a bit more like a “lap steel on steroids”—thick, rich, and powerful.

Pricing & Availability: Both sets are priced at £180.00 (for the set, excluding tax) and are hand-made to order in the UK. Options for Ageing (to match a vintage or relic guitar) and RWRP (for hum-canceling in the middle position) are available for both.

[Pre-CBS Tele Guide] | [Gallery] [Contact Marc]