If you are a guitarist, particularly a Les Paul enthusiast, you will know that your prized possession is not just a simple guitar. The Gibson Les Paul is a work of art, with intricate wiring systems that are designed to give you the best possible tone and sound. In this article, we will explore the 59 Les Paul wiring diagram, including how it works and what makes it so special.
What is the 59 Les Paul Wiring Diagram?
The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram refers to the specific wiring scheme used in Gibson Les Paul guitars made in 1959. This particular wiring is revered by guitar players for its ability to produce a rich, warm and vintage tone. The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram is characterised by its unique use of capacitors and resistors, which are used to filter certain frequencies in order to achieve the desired sound.
Understanding Capacitors and Resistors
Capacitors and resistors are crucial components in the Les Paul wiring system. A capacitor is like a small battery that stores electrical energy. It is used to filter out high-frequency noise and bleed off treble as the volume control is turned down, creating a warmer tone. Resistors, on the other hand, limit the flow of electrical current, which helps to control the amount of treble that passes through the guitar’s pickups. In the 59 Les Paul wiring system, the use of specific capacitors and resistors is what gives the guitar its unique tone.
Components Used in the 59 Les Paul Wiring Diagram
The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram uses a specific set of components to achieve its unique sound. These components include:
| Component | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacitor 1 | .022µF |
| Capacitor 2 | .015µF |
| Resistor 1 | 150kΩ |
| Resistor 2 | 500kΩ |
How the 59 Les Paul Wiring Diagram Works
The Les Paul wiring diagram is based on a four-knob setup that includes two volume knobs and two tone knobs. The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram uses a specific wiring process that includes the use of two capacitors and two resistors. The capacitors are wired in a way that filters out high-frequency noise, while the resistors limit the flow of electrical current to achieve the desired amount of treble.
The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram is characterised by a unique tapering effect, which creates a smooth transition between different volume and tone levels. This is achieved by using specific resistor and capacitor values, which work together to control the flow of electrical current in the circuit.
FAQ
What Makes the 59 Les Paul Wiring Diagram So Special?
The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram is considered special because of its ability to produce a warm and vintage tone that is highly sought after by guitar players. This wiring scheme uses a specific set of capacitors and resistors that work together to achieve this unique sound.
What is the Difference Between the 50s and 60s Les Paul Wiring Diagram?
The 50s Les Paul wiring diagram uses a different set of capacitors and resistors compared to the 59 Les Paul wiring diagram. The 50s wiring produces a brighter tone with a more noticeable treble bleed effect. The 60s wiring, on the other hand, uses a simpler wiring scheme that is characterised by a more noticeable treble loss as the volume control is turned down.
Can I Install the 59 Les Paul Wiring Diagram in My Gibson Les Paul Guitar?
Yes, you can install the 59 Les Paul wiring diagram in your Gibson Les Paul guitar. However, it is important to note that this will require some knowledge of guitar wiring and may require the help of a professional guitar technician.
What Types of Guitars Can Benefit From the 59 Les Paul Wiring Diagram?
The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram can be used in a variety of guitars, including Stratocasters and Telecasters. It is particularly useful in guitars that have single-coil pickups, as it helps to control the amount of treble that passes through the pickups.
What Types of Music is the 59 Les Paul Wiring Diagram Best Suited For?
The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram is best suited for music styles that require a warm and vintage tone, such as blues, jazz, and classic rock.
Conclusion
The 59 Les Paul wiring diagram is a highly revered and sought-after wiring scheme that is characterised by its unique use of capacitors and resistors to achieve a warm and vintage tone. Understanding the inner workings of your guitar’s wiring system is crucial to getting the best possible tone out of your guitar. Whether you are a professional musician or a hobbyist, the 59 Les Paul wiring diagram is a must-have for any Les Paul enthusiast.
