If you’re a guitar enthusiast, you know that wiring your own guitar can be a great way to get the most out of your instrument without breaking the bank. One of the most popular wiring diagrams for a Stratocaster is the 50’s Strat wiring diagram. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into this wiring diagram, explain what it is, and how it works.
What is the 50’s Strat Wiring Diagram?
The 50’s Strat wiring diagram is a specific type of wiring diagram that was used in the 1950s and 1960s. It is still used today by guitar enthusiasts who want to replicate the classic sound of vintage Stratocasters. This wiring diagram features a specific set of pickups, switches, and capacitors that work together to produce a unique sound.
What Makes the 50’s Strat Wiring Diagram Unique?
The 50’s Strat wiring diagram is unique because of the following features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tone control | The wiring diagram features a tone control for the bridge pickup, which was not present in previous versions of the Stratocaster. |
| Capacitors | The wiring diagram uses a specific set of capacitors that give the guitar a unique tonal quality. |
| Three-way switch | The wiring diagram features a three-way switch that allows you to select between the neck, middle, and bridge pickups. |
| Vintage-style pickups | The wiring diagram uses vintage-style pickups that produce a classic sound. |
How Does the 50’s Strat Wiring Diagram Work?
The 50’s Strat wiring diagram works by allowing you to control the tone and volume of your guitar using a specific set of capacitors and switches. Here’s how it works:
The tone control for the bridge pickup is connected to a .022uF capacitor, which gives the guitar a warm and rounded sound. The tone control for the neck and middle pickups is connected to a .1uF capacitor, which gives the guitar a bright and lively sound.
The three-way switch allows you to select between the neck, middle, and bridge pickups. When you select the neck or middle pickup, the tone control is engaged, giving you greater control over the sound of your guitar. When you select the bridge pickup, the tone control is disengaged, giving you a brighter and more aggressive sound.
How to Wire Your Guitar Using the 50’s Strat Wiring Diagram
If you want to wire your guitar using the 50’s Strat wiring diagram, you’ll need the following components:
- Three vintage-style pickups
- A three-way switch
- A .022uF capacitor
- Two .1uF capacitors
- Volume and tone pots
- A soldering iron
- Solder
Here’s how to wire your guitar using the 50’s Strat wiring diagram:
- Install the pickups in your guitar according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Solder the wires from the pickups to the appropriate lugs on the three-way switch.
- Solder the ground wire from the pickups to the back of a volume pot.
- Connect the middle lug of the volume pot to the input lug of the three-way switch.
- Solder the output lug of the three-way switch to the input lug of the tone pot.
- Solder the middle lug of the tone pot to the ground wire.
- Connect the .022uF capacitor between the output lug of the tone pot and the ground wire.
- Connect one of the .1uF capacitors between the input lug of the tone pot and the output lug of the volume pot.
- Connect the other .1uF capacitor between the input lug of the volume pot and the ground wire.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your guitar will be wired according to the 50’s Strat wiring diagram.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 50’s Strat wiring diagram sound like?
The 50’s Strat wiring diagram produces a warm and rounded sound that is perfect for blues, rock, and jazz music. The tone control for the bridge pickup helps to smooth out any harshness, while the .1uF capacitors give the guitar a bright and lively sound.
Can I use the 50’s Strat wiring diagram with modern pickups?
Yes, you can use the 50’s Strat wiring diagram with modern pickups. However, you may need to adjust the values of the capacitors to get the best sound.
Is the 50’s Strat wiring diagram difficult to wire?
If you have some experience with soldering and wiring, then the 50’s Strat wiring diagram should be relatively easy to wire. However, if you’re new to guitar wiring, you may want to seek the help of a professional.
How can I tell if my guitar is wired according to the 50’s Strat wiring diagram?
You can tell if your guitar is wired according to the 50’s Strat wiring diagram by looking at the components and wiring. If your guitar has vintage-style pickups, a three-way switch, and a specific set of capacitors, then it may be wired according to the 50’s Strat wiring diagram.
Can I modify the 50’s Strat wiring diagram to suit my needs?
Yes, you can modify the 50’s Strat wiring diagram to suit your needs. However, any modifications may affect the tone and sound of your guitar.
Conclusion
The 50’s Strat wiring diagram is a classic wiring diagram that is still used by guitar enthusiasts today. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, wiring your own guitar using this diagram is a great way to get the most out of your instrument.
