Single coil pickups are a popular choice among guitar players because they offer a bright, clear sound that works well for certain genres of music. However, wiring a single coil pickup can be a bit confusing for those who are new to guitar building or repair. In this article, we will explain the basics of single coil pickup wiring, including a diagram to help guide you through the process.
What is a single coil pickup?
A single coil pickup is a type of magnetic pickup that uses a single coil of wire to capture the vibration of the strings and convert it into an electrical signal. Single coil pickups are typically associated with the twangy, bright sound of genres like country and surf rock, and are often found on Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters.
Single coil pickups are made by wrapping a length of copper wire around a magnet. When a metal string vibrates above the magnet, it creates an electrical current in the wire that is then sent to the amplifier. Single coil pickups are known for their bright, clear sound, but they can also produce a humming or buzzing noise that can be difficult to eliminate.
How does single coil pickup wiring work?
The wiring of a single coil pickup is fairly simple, but it can be confusing at first. The pickup connects to the guitar’s output jack, and the wires from the pickup need to be connected in the correct order to deliver the proper signal to the amplifier. There are two basic types of single coil pickup wiring: series and parallel.
Series Wiring
Series wiring means that the pickups are wired so that the signal from one pickup is sent to the next pickup in series. This produces a thicker, more full-bodied sound that is great for lead guitar playing. To wire two single coil pickups in series, simply connect the positive (hot) wire of the first pickup to the negative (ground) wire of the second pickup. The remaining wires are then connected to the guitar’s output jack.
Parallel Wiring
Parallel wiring means that the pickups are wired so that the signal from each pickup is sent to the output jack separately. This produces a brighter, more articulate sound that is great for rhythm guitar playing. To wire two single coil pickups in parallel, connect both the positive and negative wires of each pickup to the guitar’s output jack.
Single Coil Pickup Wiring Diagram
To help illustrate the concepts discussed above, we have included a wiring diagram for a single coil pickup below:
| Wire | Color | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Green | Ground |
| 2 | White | Hot |
| 3 | Black | Ground |
In this diagram, the green wire is connected to the ground, the white wire is the hot wire, and the black wire is also connected to the ground. This is a basic diagram for a single coil pickup, but keep in mind that the specific wiring can vary depending on the pickup and guitar model.
FAQ
Q: What tools do I need to wire a single coil pickup?
A: To wire a single coil pickup, you will need a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters, and wire strippers. It’s also a good idea to have a wiring diagram or instructions to follow, as well as any necessary components such as a new output jack or potentiometer.
Q: Can I wire a single coil pickup myself, or should I have a professional do it?
A: Wiring a single coil pickup is a fairly straightforward process, but it does require some basic soldering skills. If you’re comfortable with soldering and have some experience with guitar repair, you should be able to wire a single coil pickup yourself. However, if you’re unsure or not confident in your abilities, it’s always a good idea to have a professional do the work for you.
Q: Will wiring my single coil pickup in series or parallel affect the sound of my guitar?
A: Yes, wiring your single coil pick up in series or parallel can affect the sound of your guitar. Series wiring will produce a thicker, more full-bodied sound, while parallel wiring will produce a brighter, more articulate sound. The specific sound you prefer will depend on your personal preference and the type of music you play.
Q: How can I eliminate hum or buzzing from my single coil pickup?
A: Single coil pickups are notorious for producing a humming or buzzing sound, especially when using high-gain settings or playing close to electronic devices. To eliminate this noise, you can try shielding your guitar’s electronics with copper tape or using a noise gate pedal. Some pickups also come with noise-cancelling technology built in, which can help reduce unwanted noise.
Q: Can I use a single coil pickup with distortion or overdrive pedals?
A: Yes, single coil pickups can work well with distortion or overdrive pedals, but they may produce more noise than other pickup types. To reduce unwanted noise, you can try adjusting the gain settings on your pedals or using a noise gate pedal.
Overall, wiring a single coil pickup is a relatively simple process that can greatly improve the sound of your guitar. Whether you prefer the thick, full-bodied sound of series wiring or the bright, articulate sound of parallel wiring, understanding how to wire your pickup correctly is an essential skill for any guitar player.
