If you’re someone who loves tinkering with guitars, chances are, you’ve heard about humbuckers. Humbuckers, also known as double-coil pickups, produce a thicker and richer sound compared to single-coil pickups. They are especially popular in rock and metal music. However, there are some limitations to their functionality when it comes to wiring. That’s where dual humbucker wiring comes in. In this article, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about dual humbucker wiring diagrams.
What is Dual Humbucker Wiring?
Dual humbucker wiring is a wiring configuration that utilizes two humbucking pickups in a guitar. Typically, a humbucker pickup has four wires – two for the coil, one for ground, and one for hot. The hot wire is the one that sends the signal to the amp. With dual humbucker wiring, the coils of the two pickups are wired in series or parallel, allowing for a variety of tonal options.
Wiring in Series
When the coils are wired in series, the two pickups act as a single pickup with increased output and midrange. This is because the signal travels from one pickup to the other, resulting in a stronger magnetic field. The wiring diagram for this configuration is as follows:
| Humbucker 1 | Humbucker 2 |
|---|---|
| Green | Green |
| Bare | Bare |
| Black | Red |
| Red | Black |
In this diagram, the green and bare wires are connected to ground. The black wire of humbucker 1 is connected to the red wire of humbucker 2, and the remaining wires are connected to the output jack.
Wiring in Parallel
When the coils are wired in parallel, the two pickups act independently, resulting in a brighter and clearer sound. This is because the two humbuckers aren’t working together to create a stronger magnetic field. The wiring diagram for this configuration is as follows:
| Humbucker 1 | Humbucker 2 |
|---|---|
| Green | Green |
| Bare | Bare |
| Red and white together | Red and white together |
| Black | Black |
In this diagram, the green and bare wires are connected to ground. The red and white wires of each humbucker are connected together, and the black wires are connected to the output jack.
Wiring Options
There are a few wiring options that you can try out with dual humbuckers.
Coil Splitting
Coil splitting is a popular wiring option that allows you to switch from a humbucking sound to a single-coil sound. This is achieved by connecting a switch to the hot wire of one of the pickups. When the switch is engaged, only one coil of the humbucker is active, resulting in a thinner and brighter tone. The wiring diagram for this option is as follows:
| Humbucker |
|---|
| Green |
| Bare |
| Red and white together |
| Black |
| Switch to hot wire |
Phase Switching
Phase switching allows you to switch the polarity of one of the pickups. This can result in a unique and interesting sound when both pickups are engaged. The wiring diagram for this option is as follows:
| Humbucker 1 | Humbucker 2 |
|---|---|
| Green | Green |
| Bare | Bare |
| Red and white together | Black |
| Black | Red and white together |
FAQs
What is the difference between series and parallel wiring?
In series wiring, the coils of the pickups are connected end to end. This results in a higher output and midrange. In parallel wiring, the coils of the pickups are wired separately. This results in a brighter and clearer sound.
What is coil splitting?
Coil splitting is a wiring option that allows you to switch from a humbucking sound to a single-coil sound. This is achieved by connecting a switch to the hot wire of one of the pickups.
What is phase switching?
Phase switching allows you to switch the polarity of one of the pickups. This can result in a unique and interesting sound when both pickups are engaged.
Can I wire my dual humbuckers in reverse polarity?
Yes, you can wire your dual humbuckers in reverse polarity. This can result in a different sound when both pickups are engaged.
Can I use different types of humbuckers for dual humbucker wiring?
Yes, you can use different types of humbuckers for dual humbucker wiring. However, it’s important to note that different pickups can have different output levels, which can affect the overall tonal balance of your guitar.
Overall, dual humbucker wiring can offer a lot of tonal flexibility and versatility for your guitar. Whether you prefer a thick and heavy sound or a bright and clear one, there’s a wiring option that can suit your needs. So next time you’re looking to upgrade your guitar’s wiring, don’t be afraid to give dual humbuckers a try!
