Many guitar players seek to upgrade their guitar’s sound, and one of the most significant changes they can make is by installing a new pickup. Understanding how to wire a 5 wire pickup can be daunting for beginners, but it is a relatively straightforward process. In this article, we will discuss the basic wiring setup of a 5 wire pickup and provide a wiring diagram to guide you through the process.
What is a 5 Wire Pickup?
A 5 wire pickup, also known as a humbucker pickup, is a type of electric guitar pickup that uses two coils to pick up the sound of the guitar strings. The name “humbucker” comes from the fact that this type of pickup cancels out the hum and other unwanted noise that single-coil pickups can produce. Humbuckers are often used in heavy rock and metal music, but they can also be found in a wide variety of other genres.
The two coils in a humbucker pickup are usually wired in series, which increases the output and makes the pickup sound louder and more powerful. Some humbuckers, however, are wired in parallel, which produces a brighter, more open sound.
Basic Wiring Setup
The basic wiring setup of a 5 wire pickup is easy to understand. The pickup has five wires: one ground wire, two hot wires, and two coil tap wires. The two hot wires are connected to a switch or a potentiometer that allows you to select between the two coils or combine them in series or parallel. The coil tap wires are used to split the pickup into single-coil mode, which produces a different tone.
The diagram below shows the basic wiring setup of a 5 wire pickup:
| Wire Color | Description |
| Green or Bare | Ground |
| Black | Hot wire connected to the switch or potentiometer |
| Red | Hot wire connected to the switch or potentiometer |
| White | Coil tap wire |
| Yellow | Coil tap wire |
If you are upgrading your guitar’s pickup, you will need to remove the old pickup and install the new one. You will also need to solder the wires from the new pickup to the switch or potentiometer. If you are not comfortable soldering, it is recommended that you take your guitar to a professional for installation.
FAQ
What is the difference between series and parallel wiring?
In series wiring, the two coils of the humbucker are connected one after the other, which increases the output and makes the pickup sound louder and more powerful. In parallel wiring, the two coils are wired side by side, which produces a brighter, more open sound.
What is coil tapping?
Coil tapping is a wiring technique that allows you to split the humbucker pickup into single-coil mode. This produces a different tone that can be useful in a wide variety of music styles.
Why should I upgrade my pickup?
Upgrading your guitar’s pickup can significantly improve its sound and tone. A high-quality pickup can produce a louder, more powerful sound that is better suited to your playing style and music genre.
Can I install a 5 wire pickup in any guitar?
Most electric guitars can accommodate a 5 wire pickup, but it is recommended that you consult with a professional before attempting to install one in your guitar.
Do I need any special tools to install a pickup?
You will need a soldering iron, solder, and a wire stripper to install a pickup. It is recommended that you have some experience with soldering before attempting to install a pickup.
Conclusion
Wiring a 5 wire pickup may seem daunting at first, but it is a relatively straightforward process that can significantly improve your guitar’s sound and tone. By understanding the basic wiring setup and using a wiring diagram, you can easily upgrade your guitar’s pickup and take your playing to the next level.
