Coil tap wiring diagram push pull is a popular modification for guitar players who want to expand their tonal options without having to switch guitars. In this article, we will be discussing what coil tapping is, how push pull pots work, and how to wire a coil tap using a push pull pot. We will also be answering frequently asked questions about coil tap wiring, so you can get started on your own coil tap wiring project.
What is Coil Tapping?
Coil tapping is a method of altering the sound of a pickup by removing some of the windings from the coil. This reduces the output of the pickup, resulting in a brighter, thinner sound that is similar to a single-coil pickup. Coil tapping is often used in humbucker pickups, which have two coils that can be wired in series or parallel to produce different sounds.
To coil tap a pickup, you need to add a switch that will allow you to select between the full output of the pickup and the tapped output. This can be done using a push pull pot, which is a type of potentiometer that has a built-in switch that can be activated by pulling or pushing the knob.
How Push Pull Pots Work
Push pull pots work by using a switch that is built into the potentiometer. When the knob is pushed or pulled, the switch is activated, which changes the wiring of the potentiometer. This allows you to use the same potentiometer for two different functions.
For coil tapping, you will need to wire the push pull pot so that when it is pushed or pulled, the switch activates the coil tap wire. This will allow you to select between the full output of the pickup and the tapped output.
How to Wire a Coil Tap Using a Push Pull Pot
To wire a coil tap using a push pull pot, you will need to follow these steps:
- Remove the cover from your humbucker pickup.
- Locate the wire that connects the two coils. This will usually be a braided shield wire.
- Cut the wire in half, leaving enough room to attach a new wire to each end.
- Strip the ends of the wire that you just cut.
- Attach one end of a new wire to one of the cut ends of the shield wire. This will be the wire that connects to the push pull pot.
- Attach the other end of the new wire to the middle lug of the push pull pot.
- Attach a new wire to the other cut end of the shield wire.
- Attach the other end of the new wire to the lug on the side of the push pull pot that is opposite the middle lug.
- Test the coil tapping by pushing or pulling the knob on the push pull pot.
- Replace the cover on your humbucker pickup.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between coil tapping and coil splitting?
A: Coil tapping and coil splitting are two different methods of altering the sound of a pickup. Coil splitting involves using a switch to split one of the coils in a humbucker pickup, resulting in a sound that is similar to a single-coil pickup. Coil tapping involves removing some of the windings from a coil to reduce the output of the pickup, resulting in a brighter, thinner sound.
Q: Can I wire a coil tap without a push pull pot?
A: Yes, you can wire a coil tap using a mini toggle switch or a push button switch. However, using a push pull pot is the most popular method because it allows you to use the same potentiometer for two different functions.
Q: Is coil tapping reversible?
A: Yes, coil tapping is reversible. If you decide that you no longer want to use the coil tap, you can simply remove the push pull pot and rewire your pickup as it was originally wired.
Q: Can I wire a coil tap on any type of pickup?
A: Coil tapping can be done on most types of pickups, but it is most commonly used on humbucker pickups. Single-coil pickups can also be tapped, but the effect will be less noticeable because they already have a bright, thin sound.
Q: What type of wire should I use for coil tapping?
A: It is best to use shielded wire for coil tapping, as this will help to reduce noise and interference. You should also use wire that is the same gauge as the wire that is already in your pickup.
Conclusion
Coil tap wiring diagram push pull is a versatile modification that can help you to expand your tonal options without having to switch guitars. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can wire a coil tap using a push pull pot and start experimenting with new sounds. If you have any questions about coil tapping or push pull pots, be sure to check out our frequently asked questions section.
