DiMarzio DP 227 Black Pickup humbucker

DiMarzio DP 227BK LiquiFire — John Petrucci Signature Neck Humbucker

The DiMarzio DP 227BK LiquiFire is the neck-position humbucker developed with John Petrucci of Dream Theater. Introduced in 2009, it was used throughout the band's tenth studio album "Black Clouds & Silver Linings." Petrucci wanted a pickup delivering a flowing solo voice through a heavily overdriven amp while still producing clear chord tones on a clean setting. This model satisfies both requirements.

A Focused Voice for Leads and Clean Chords

Compared to Petrucci's previous neck pickup of choice — the Air Norton — this instrument offers warmer, smoother treble response paired with tighter, brighter bass response. The result is a more focused voice that cuts through dense rhythm playing. Four-conductor wiring enables coil-split operation for strat-like single-coil tones when paired with a push-pull switch.

Magnet and Output Characteristics

The magnet type and DC resistance define how a humbucker interacts with the amplifier and guitar electronics.

• Magnet: Alnico 5 — warmer character with smooth high-end response
• DC Resistance: 10.75 kOhm — medium-power output for clean and driven tones
• An output rating of 300 on the brand's scale ensures a balanced level suitable for the neck position.

Wiring and Installation

Four-conductor wiring gives players full access to coil-split, series, and parallel switching options.

• Wiring: 4-conductor — enables coil-split and custom switching
• Quick Connect: No — standard soldered installation
• Recommended Potentiometers: 500 kOhm volume and tone with .022 µF capacitor

Position and Tone Profile

Although designed for the neck position, this pickup can also be installed in the bridge position for a smoother lead voice.

• Recommended Position: Neck (also suitable for bridge)
• Tone Profile: Bass 5.0 / Low Mid 6.5 / High Mid 6.5 / Treble 4.0
• Cover Finish: Black — standard-spaced humbucker format