Electric guitars are powered by a series of electrical components, and one of the most important parts of the electrical system is the pickup. The 2 P90 pickup configuration is a common setup for guitars and provides a versatile and dynamic sound. However, wiring these pickups can be complex, and it’s important to understand the process to ensure that the guitar functions properly.
What are P90 Pickups?
The P90 pickup is a single coil pickup design that was first introduced by Gibson in the late 1940s. It’s known for its warm and full-bodied tone, which is often described as a cross between a classic single-coil and a humbucker pickup. The P90 pickup features a large and wide coil that provides a higher output and a thicker sound than traditional single-coil pickups. The 2 P90 configuration is a popular setup for guitars, particularly in rock, blues, and punk music genres.
How do P90 Pickups Work?
All pickups work on the same basic principle: they convert the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal that can be amplified and heard through a speaker. The P90 pickup uses a magnetic field to capture the vibrations of the strings. When the strings are plucked or strummed, they cause the magnetic field to fluctuate, which generates an electric current. This signal is then transferred to the amplifier, where it is amplified and shaped to produce the desired sound.
The P90 pickup features two magnetic poles that are aligned with the strings. These poles are designed to capture the string vibrations and generate the electrical signal. Each pole is wrapped with a coil of wire, which increases the pickup’s output and sensitivity.
2 P90 Wiring Diagram: Step-by-Step Guide
Wiring a 2 P90 guitar pickup configuration can be a challenging process, but with careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the steps involved, it’s possible to complete the job successfully. Here is a step-by-step guide to wiring a 2 P90 guitar pickup configuration.
Step 1: Disconnect the Power
Before beginning any electrical work, it’s important to disconnect the power source to avoid any potential electrical hazards. In the case of a guitar, this means removing the strings and disconnecting the output jack.
Step 2: Remove the Pickguard
The pickguard is the plastic plate that covers the guitar’s electronics. To access the wiring, remove the pickguard carefully by unscrewing the mounting screws.
Step 3: Gather the Required Tools
To wire the pickups, you’ll need a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters, and wire strippers. Make sure that you have all the necessary tools on hand before beginning the job.
Step 4: Determine the Wiring Scheme
There are several different wiring schemes that can be used for a 2 P90 configuration, including the standard parallel wiring and the phase reversal wiring. Decide on the wiring scheme that you want to use and refer to a wiring diagram for guidance.
Step 5: Prepare the Wires
Use your wire cutters and strippers to prepare the wires that you’ll be using for the pickups. Strip the ends of the wires and twist them together to create a strong connection.
Step 6: Solder the Wires to the Pickup
Using your soldering iron and solder, attach the wires to the pickup according to the wiring diagram. Be careful to avoid overheating the pickup, as this can damage the coils and affect the sound quality.
Step 7: Connect the Pickups to the Switch
Once the pickups are wired, connect them to the switch according to the wiring diagram. Be sure to use the correct terminals to avoid any electrical issues.
Step 8: Solder the Ground Wire
The ground wire is an important part of the wiring scheme as it helps to reduce noise and interference. Solder the ground wire to the back of the volume potentiometer.
Step 9: Test the Wiring
Before reassembling the guitar, test the wiring to ensure that everything is working properly. Plug the guitar into an amplifier and play each pickup to check the sound quality and consistency.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the difference between P90 and humbucker pickups? | While both pickups use magnetic fields to capture the strings’ vibrations, humbucker pickups feature two coils that are wired in opposite directions. This design reduces noise and interference, resulting in a cleaner sound. P90 pickups, on the other hand, use a single large coil with a higher output and a thicker sound. |
| What are the benefits of a 2 P90 configuration? | The 2 P90 configuration provides a versatile and dynamic sound that can be used in a variety of musical genres. This setup is particularly popular in rock, blues, and punk music, as it produces a raw and powerful sound that can cut through a mix. |
| Is it difficult to wire a 2 P90 configuration? | Wiring a 2 P90 configuration can be challenging, especially for beginners. However, with careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the process, it’s possible to complete the job successfully. It’s important to follow a wiring diagram and use the proper tools to avoid any potential hazards. |
| What is the best wiring scheme for a 2 P90 configuration? | The best wiring scheme for a 2 P90 configuration depends on your personal preferences and playing style. Some common schemes include the standard parallel wiring, phase reversal wiring, and series wiring. Experiment with different wiring schemes to find the one that produces the sound that you’re looking for. |
Wiring a 2 P90 guitar pickup configuration requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the process. By following the steps outlined in this guide and referring to a wiring diagram, you can wire your guitar’s pickups with confidence and enjoy the dynamic and versatile sound of the P90 pickup configuration.
