Your Guide to Sustainiac Pickup–equipped Guitars
Eager to learn what makes Sustainiac guitar pickups game-changing devices for atmospheric guitarists? Whether you’re chasing cavernous sustain or lightly bowed textures, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions players ask before making the leap.
Still on the fence? Explore the FAQs below to see if a Sustainiac system is right for your sound.
What does a Sustainiac pickup do?
A Sustainiac pickup gives your guitar the power to hold a note for as long as you wish — literally. It uses controlled electromagnetic feedback to turn your guitar into a self-sustaining tone machine. Whether you’re after soaring leads, violin-like textures, or harmonically rich experimental soundscapes, the Sustainiac lets you shape your tone in ways traditional pickups simply can’t. It’s not just about longer sustain — it’s about unlocking new dimensions of expression.
What’s the difference between a Sustainiac and an Ebow?
Great question! While both the Sustainiac and the Ebow can generate infinite sustain by inducing vibrations in your strings, they achieve it very differently. The Sustainiac pickup is installed directly into your guitar and activated by switches, offering seamless control during play. The Ebow, on the other hand, is a handheld accessory that requires manual positioning over the strings.
One option isn’t better than another. If you prefer hands-free operation that integrates into your guitar’s design, the Sustainiac is the more performance-friendly option. If you only require bowed effects for the occasional tune or studio effect, you can’t go wrong with the classic Ebow.
Which factory guitars come loaded with Sustainiac pickups?
You’ll find the Sustainiac factory-installed in select production guitars from Schecter, Ibanez, Reverend, and more. Some of our more popular Sustainiac guitars include:
- - Schecter Hellraiser FR-S models
- - Schecter Sun Valley Super Shredder FR-S models
- - Schecter Synyster Gates Custom-S and TR-S models
- - Ibanez Joe Satriani Signature models
- - Reverend Reeves Gabrels Signature RG-SUS
If you’re after a plug-and-play experience with built-in sustain, choosing one of these models can save time and installation costs. Even so, many players opt for custom installs in their favorite guitars to make them truly their own.
What are some Sustainiac alternatives?
As players who own Sustainiac guitars, Sweetwater guitarists can tell you that the Sustainiac is its own animal. That said, if you’re looking for other sustain-enhancing effects and accessories, the following options should get you in the ballpark:
- - Guitars: Fernandes Sustainer–equipped Fender Ed O’Brien Sustainer Strat
- - Handhelds: Ebow Electronic Bow, TC Electronic Aeon Infinite Sustainer
- - Pedals: DigiTech FreqOut feedback creator, EHX Freeze sound retainer, MXR Layers harmonic sustainer, Gamechanger Audio Plus Pedal real-time sustainer
- - Software Plug-ins: Eventide Blackhole Immersive reverb, Strymon Cloudburst ambient reverb
- - Add-ons: Fender Fatfinger headstock sustain enhancer, Sweetwater Plek Pro setup with upgraded saddles and nut
Are Sustainiac pickups compatible with EMG or active pickups?
Yes—but with a few important considerations. The Sustainiac is compatible with EMG or other active pickups, but it requires a custom wiring configuration and sometimes additional components, including isolated power supplies, to function properly without noise or crosstalk. Many players successfully pair Sustainiac with EMGs in high-gain setups, but professional installation is strongly recommended to get it right.
Can I install a Sustainiac in any guitar?
Theoretically, yes! An aftermarket Sustainiac pickup can be installed in most electric guitars. However, the fit and performance depend on your guitar’s body cavity space, pickup configuration, and electronics layout. Guitars with 24 frets, humbucker routes, and rear control cavities tend to be the best candidates. If your guitar doesn’t meet these specs, modifications may be needed. Always consult with a qualified tech or luthier to evaluate compatibility before purchase.
