If you’re an avid guitar enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with the name Dimarzio. For over four decades, the company has been providing some of the best guitar pickups in the market. But, with the introduction of the 5-way switch, things can get a little bit confusing for newbies.
This article will be a comprehensive guide on the Dimarzio 5-way switch wiring diagram. We’ll walk you through the process of wiring, explain the basics of a 5-way switch, and answer some frequently asked questions.
What is a 5-Way Switch?
The 5-way switch is a type of pickup selector that’s commonly found on electric guitars with three pickups. It has five positions, each of which selects different combinations of pickups. The five positions are:
| Position | Selected Pickups |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bridge Pickup |
| 2 | Bridge and Middle Pickups |
| 3 | Middle Pickup |
| 4 | Middle and Neck Pickups |
| 5 | Neck Pickup |
The 5-way switch can be wired in different ways, depending on the type of guitar and the desired sound. In this article, we’ll focus on the Dimarzio 5-way switch wiring diagram.
Wiring the Dimarzio 5-Way Switch
The Dimarzio 5-way switch wiring diagram is a popular wiring configuration among guitar players. It allows for a wide range of tonal options and is relatively easy to wire. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wire a Dimarzio 5-way switch:
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials
Before you start wiring your guitar, you’ll need to gather some materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- A Dimarzio 5-way switch
- Three pickups
- Wire cutters/strippers
- Soldering iron/solder
- Electrical tape
Step 2: Identify the Pickups
The first step in wiring your guitar is to identify the pickups. You should have a bridge, middle, and neck pickup, each with two wires (a hot wire and a ground wire).
Step 3: Strip the Wires
Using your wire cutters/strippers, strip about 1/4″ of insulation from the end of each wire. You should have six exposed wires (three hot wires and three ground wires).
Step 4: Solder the Ground Wires
Take the ground wires from each pickup and solder them together. Then, solder the ground wire from the guitar output jack to the pickup ground wires. Lastly, solder a ground wire to the metal bridge.
Step 5: Solder the Hot Wires to the Switch
Next, you’ll need to solder the hot wires to the switch. Here’s how to do it:
- Take the hot wire from the bridge pickup and solder it to the first lug on the switch.
- Take the hot wire from the middle pickup and solder it to the third lug on the switch.
- Take the hot wire from the neck pickup and solder it to the fifth lug on the switch.
- Take a wire and solder it to the second and fourth lugs on the switch.
- Solder the other end of the wire to the guitar output jack.
FAQ about Dimarzio 5-Way Switch Wiring Diagram
What are the benefits of using a 5-way switch?
The 5-way switch allows for a wide range of tonal options, making it a versatile tool for guitar players. It’s also relatively easy to use and provides a clear indication of which pickups are being selected.
Can I use the Dimarzio 5-way switch wiring diagram on any guitar?
The Dimarzio 5-way switch wiring diagram is designed specifically for electric guitars with three pickups. It may not work on guitars with a different number of pickups or a different type of switch.
Do I need any special tools to wire a Dimarzio 5-way switch?
You’ll need some basic tools, such as wire cutters/strippers, soldering iron/solder, and electrical tape. If you’re not comfortable with soldering, you may want to seek the help of a professional guitar technician.
What if I make a mistake while wiring my guitar?
It’s always possible to make a mistake while wiring your guitar. If this happens, don’t panic. Simply correct the mistake and try again. If you’re not sure what went wrong, consult the wiring diagram or seek the help of a professional guitar technician.
Where can I find more wiring diagrams for my guitar?
There are many online resources that offer wiring diagrams for different types of guitars. You can also consult the manufacturer’s website or seek the help of a professional guitar technician.
Now that you have a better understanding of the Dimarzio 5-way switch wiring diagram, you can get started on wiring your guitar. Remember to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
