Are you a bass player looking to upgrade your instrument’s wiring? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll be discussing the ins and outs of a 2 pickup bass wiring diagram. We’ll cover everything from the basics to more advanced configurations, and we’ll even include some frequently asked questions to help you along the way.
Basics of 2 Pickup Bass Wiring
The wiring diagram for a 2 pickup bass is relatively straightforward. You’ll need two pickups, a volume control for each pickup, a tone control, and a 3-way switch. The pickups will be connected to the volume controls, which will then be connected to the 3-way switch. The tone control will be connected to the output jack.
One important thing to note is that the wiring diagram will differ based on whether you’re using passive or active pickups. Passive pickups don’t require a power source, while active pickups do. We’ll cover both types of pickups in this article, so don’t worry if you’re not sure which type you have.
Passive Pickup Wiring Diagram
Let’s start with the wiring diagram for a bass with passive pickups. Here’s what it will look like:
| Pickup | Volume Control | 3-Way Switch | Tone Control | Output Jack |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup 1 | Connected to Volume Control 1 | Connected to 3-Way Switch | Connected to Output Jack | Connected to Output Jack |
| Pickup 2 | Connected to Volume Control 2 | Connected to 3-Way Switch | Connected to Output Jack | Connected to Output Jack |
As you can see, each pickup is connected to its own volume control, which is then connected to the 3-way switch. The tone control is connected to the output jack, along with both pickups.
Active Pickup Wiring Diagram
The wiring diagram for a bass with active pickups will look a bit different. Here’s what it will look like:
| Pickup | Volume Control | 3-Way Switch | Battery | Output Jack |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup 1 | Connected to Volume Control 1 | Connected to 3-Way Switch | Connected to Battery | Connected to Output Jack |
| Pickup 2 | Connected to Volume Control 2 | Connected to 3-Way Switch | Connected to Battery | Connected to Output Jack |
As you can see, the main difference with active pickups is that they require a power source. This is usually in the form of a 9-volt battery, which will need to be wired in. The pickups are connected to their respective volume controls, which are then connected to the 3-way switch. The output jack is also connected to the battery, which powers the pickups.
Advanced Wiring Configurations
If you’re looking for something a bit more advanced than the basic wiring diagrams we’ve covered so far, don’t worry – there are plenty of options! Here are a few ideas:
Series/Parallel Switching
With a series/parallel switch, you can choose to have your pickups wired in series or in parallel. This can give you a wider range of tonal options. Here’s what the wiring diagram would look like:
| Pickup | Volume Control | Toggle Switch | Tone Control | Output Jack |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup 1 | Connected to Volume Control 1 | Connected to Toggle Switch | Connected to Output Jack | Connected to Output Jack |
| Pickup 2 | Connected to Volume Control 2 | Connected to Toggle Switch | Connected to Output Jack | Connected to Output Jack |
The toggle switch in this diagram will allow you to switch between series and parallel wiring for your pickups.
Coil Splitting
Coil splitting is another way to expand your tonal options. With a coil splitter, you can choose to use only one coil of a pickup, effectively turning it into a single-coil pickup. Here’s what the wiring diagram would look like:
| Pickup | Volume Control | Toggle Switch | Tone Control | Output Jack |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup 1 | Connected to Volume Control 1 | Connected to Toggle Switch | Connected to Output Jack | Connected to Output Jack |
| Pickup 2 | Connected to Volume Control 2 | Connected to Toggle Switch | Connected to Output Jack | Connected to Output Jack |
The toggle switch in this diagram will allow you to switch between using both coils and only one coil for each pickup.
FAQ
What tools will I need to wire my bass?
You’ll need a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters/strippers, and a screwdriver. It’s also a good idea to have a wiring diagram on hand.
Can I install new pickups myself?
Yes, you can! However, if you’re not confident in your soldering skills, it’s always a good idea to take your bass to a professional.
How can I tell if my pickups are passive or active?
If your pickups require a battery, they’re active. If not, they’re passive.
What should I do if I can’t find a wiring diagram for my specific bass?
Your best bet is to contact the manufacturer or a professional for assistance. Alternatively, you can try to find a wiring diagram for a similar bass and make adjustments as necessary.
How can I test my wiring to make sure everything is working properly?
You can use a multimeter to test for continuity and resistance. This will help ensure that all of your connections are making proper contact.
Conclusion
There you have it – everything you need to know about a 2 pickup bass wiring diagram! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, upgrading your wiring can make a huge difference in your tone. Just be sure to take your time and follow the wiring diagram closely, and you’ll be well on your way to a customized bass that sounds just the way you want it to.
