Stratocaster Steel Back Plate

Description

Traditionally:
Early Stratocaster pickups did not use baseplates at all, relying instead on individual AlNiCo rod magnets magnetized through the coil. This design produced a lower-inductance, more open and transparent tone with fast transient response, extended highs, and clear string separation—hallmarks of classic Strat clarity.

Later / Optional Traditional Modifications:
Some later builders and players began adding steel baseplates (especially to bridge pickups) to increase output and fullness.

Modern / Cheaper Alternatives:
Modern Strat baseplates may be made from steel, brass, or copper, depending on cost and intended voicing.

Baseplates are not passive hardware — they are part of the pickup’s magnetic system. The wrong material can fundamentally change how a pickup responds, not just how it measures.

• Steel baseplates increase inductance and output, adding low-end weight and midrange push, often used to beef up bridge positions.

• Brass or copper baseplates add mass without strong magnetic interaction, which can soften highs and slightly compress dynamics.

• Overly thick or poorly specified plates can reduce the Strat’s inherent air and sparkle.

Takeaway:
Strat baseplates are a voicing tool rather than a necessity. Material choice determines whether the pickup remains vintage-correct and airy or shifts toward hotter, thicker territory.

This Stratocaster pickup back plate is made from steel with a copper plating, designed to mount to the underside of Stratocaster single-coil pickups.

The steel core interacts with the pickup’s magnetic field, slightly increasing inductance and helping produce a fuller, warmer tone, while the copper plating provides improved electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance. This construction mirrors the style used in many traditional and vintage-inspired Stratocaster designs.

When installed, the back plate can also help reduce electromagnetic interference and tighten the pickup’s response, making it a popular choice for new builds, rewinds, restorations, and noise-reduction upgrades.

Specifications

• Application: Stratocaster single-coil pickups

• Material: Steel base with copper plating

• Mounting Position: Underside of pickup

• Function:

  • Steel: increases inductance and tonal fullness

  • Copper plating: improves conductivity and corrosion resistance

• Compatibility: Standard Stratocaster pickup dimensions

• Use Case: New builds, rewinds, restorations, upgrades

Tonal Characteristics

• Slightly increased output and midrange presence

• Smoother high-frequency response

• Fuller, less brittle Stratocaster tone

Builder Notes

This back plate is intended only for Stratocaster pickups and should not be used on bridge pickups. It is commonly paired with fiber flatwork and Alnico rod magnets in both vintage-style and modern boutique builds.

Available in bulk quantities for pickup builders, schools, and repair shops.