The HS-3⢠has been the weapon of choice for Strat®-powered classical metal since the early 1980s. Far from being a high-output monster, the HS-3⢠is actually a smooth and relatively quiet pickup that produces a sweet overdrive tone without jagged edges. These qualities combine perfectly with a heavily distorted amp, because the sound wonât get muddy or messy. The HS-3⢠is also versatile - itâs a noise-free pickup in a live situation or in the studio.

Tech Talk: The HS-3⢠works very well with high-gain amps, but the classic setup is with an overdrive pedal and a Marshall® amp. The pedal boosts sustain and distortion, and the sound cleans up dramatically when the pedal is switched off. Works well in all 3 positions on a Strat® for a slightly warmer-than-usual Strat® sound. Also works well as a bridge pickup with HS-4⢠(neck) and HS-2⢠(middle). Combines in middle and neck positions with bridge humbuckers like PAF Pro®, PAF®, Air Classic⢠and Norton®.

Recommended For: All positions.
DiMarzio Tone Guide:
Treble, Middle, Bass, pretty much like on your amp. Scale is 0-10. Relationship between Treble, Middle & Bass is important too.

• Treble - 6.5
• Middle - 6
• Bass - 6

DiMarzio Output (mv) Guide:
The higher the number, the more power you get. For Strat-type (generally):
90mv "classic"
140mv "punchy"
190mv "hot"

• 93mv