DiMarzio DP 102 X2N Black Pickup humbucker

DiMarzio DP 102BK X2N F-spaced Humbucker Pickup — Maximum Passive Output

DiMarzio DP 102BK X2N F-spaced delivers the highest gain output among DiMarzio's passive pickups, designed for pushing tube amplifiers to overdrive in the bridge position. First released in 1979, the X2N set the standard for aggressive tone without the need for batteries. This model features a ceramic magnet and twin wide-bar pole pieces, generating a strong, focused magnetic field that brings out the full voice of the guitar.

Twin Wide-Bar Pole Piece Architecture

A key innovation is the use of two wide bars as pole pieces, spanning all six strings and replacing conventional individual poles. Paired with a ceramic magnet, this design produces an especially powerful field, extracting maximum energy for a fierce yet articulate tone under intense gain. When switching to single-coil or series-parallel wiring, players experience more punch compared to weaker humbuckers in similar setups.

Output and Gain Performance for High-Gain Bridge Applications

Players in high-gain genres rely on robust bridge pickups for lasting sustain and saturated tones at every fret.

• Output Voltage: 510 mV — delivers one of the highest passive outputs, easily driving amp preamps into overdrive
• Thanks to a DC Resistance of 15.83 kOhm, this pickup creates a midrange-forward attack favored in hard rock and metal.

Frequency Response Profile

Each DiMarzio pickup is rated for bass, mids, and treble using numerical scores. The X2N's mid and treble focus ensures chords and leads are clear even through heavy distortion.

• Bass Response: 5.5 — controlled lows that don’t get flabby with high gain
• Midrange: 6.5 — prominent mids shape the aggressive tone
• When playing fast riffs, the Treble response of 6.5 ensures every note cuts through the mix.

Wiring Configuration and F-Spaced Installation

Installing a high-output pickup requires adaptable wiring for custom guitar setups. The four-conductor wiring and Quick Connect system allow for a range of configurations beyond standard humbucking.

• Wiring: 4-conductor with Quick Connect — supports coil-splitting, series-parallel, and out-of-phase modes with no soldering
• String Spacing: F-spaced — ideal for tremolo and string-through-body guitars that need wider bridge spacing
• Positioned at the bridge, this pickup delivers the punch and attack modern players demand.