Magnetic pickups are devices used in electric guitars and other stringed instruments to convert the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals. They consist of magnets and coils of wire, which work together to detect the movement of the metal strings. When a string vibrates, it disturbs the magnetic field created by the magnets, generating an electrical current in the coils. These pickups come in various types, including single-coil and humbucker designs, each producing different tonal qualities. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright and clear sound, while humbuckers offer a thicker, warmer tone by canceling out unwanted noise.