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Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer

Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer

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Find out who is using Rhodes Velvet Hammer

Joan Jett

1 wishlisted

1 saved

Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Description

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The Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer pickup is a celebrated choice among guitarists seeking to enrich their sound with the hallmark warmth and clarity of vintage tones. This pickup is renowned for its ability to deliver balanced output across all strings, ensuring that every note rings true, from the softest whisper to the most driving rhythm. Designed by legendary steel guitarist and innovator Red Rhodes, the Velvet Hammer has carved its niche as a go-to upgrade for those who demand both precision and a touch of retro magic in their playing.

Perfect for both studio sessions and live performances, this pickup shines in its versatility, making it suitable for a variety of genres, from classic rock to blues and jazz. Its design allows for a seamless fit with a wide range of guitars, providing players with the freedom to experiment and refine their signature sound. Whether you're looking to enhance your instrument's natural tone or add some vintage character, the Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer offers a reliable and expressive solution.

Key Features:

Balanced output ensures consistent sound across all strings
Ideal for both vintage and modern musical styles
Compatible with a wide range of electric guitars
Designed by the legendary Red Rhodes for superior performance
Perfect for both studio recording and live gigs

Videos

celtusfergus

Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer Pickup

Video thumbnail for Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer Pickup by celtusfergus

Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer Pickup

celtusfergus

Video thumbnail for Velvet Hammer ‘54 Strat Pickups Demo by Jason Gutierrez

Velvet Hammer ‘54 Strat Pickups Demo

Jason Gutierrez

Jason Gutierrez

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer.

Features and functionality

0 0

The Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer pickup is noted for providing a huge, rich tone when placed in the neck position of a Stratocaster.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

Pairing the Velvet Hammer in the neck with a Bartolini High A in the bridge creates a hot, dynamic sound profile.
Source

User experience

0 0

A 1975 Stratocaster with a Velvet Hammer pickup is described as having a well-loved, vintage vibe, especially when combined with a classic amp setup.
Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

See how Joan Jett uses Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer

Joan Jett

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

Verified via YouTube

As mentioned by her guitar tech, at 1:18 in this rig rundown, Jett uses Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer pickups.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Red Rhodes Velvet Hammer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Added to Equipboard on 04-29-2015 by

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Gear IQ 5227