Eric Johnson Wiring Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide to Modifying Your Guitar’s Tone

If you’re a guitar player and looking for a way to improve your tone, the Eric Johnson wiring diagram may be the answer. This wiring mod, also known as the “7-way Stratocaster mod,” is a popular modification for Stratocaster players, named after guitar virtuoso Eric Johnson, who is known for using this wiring in his instruments.

What is the Eric Johnson wiring diagram?

The Eric Johnson wiring diagram is a modification to the traditional Stratocaster wiring that adds two extra pickup combinations to your guitar. The mod uses a special switch that allows you to combine the neck and bridge pickups in series or parallel, creating unique and versatile tones that are not available with the standard Strat wiring.

This wiring diagram can be installed on any Stratocaster guitar, and it’s a popular mod among players who want to expand their tonal options without sacrificing the classic Stratocaster sound.

How does the Eric Johnson wiring work?

The Eric Johnson wiring mod adds two extra pickup combinations to your guitar:

  • Position 1: Bridge pickup only
  • Position 2: Bridge and middle pickups in parallel
  • Position 3: Middle pickup only
  • Position 4: Neck and middle pickups in parallel
  • Position 5: Neck pickup only
  • Position 6: Bridge and neck pickups in series
  • Position 7: Bridge and neck pickups in parallel

The switch used in this mod is a 4-pole 5-way switch, which allows you to combine the pickups in different ways. In positions 1, 3, and 5, the switch works like a standard Stratocaster switch, selecting the individual pickups. In positions 2 and 4, the switch combines the pickups in parallel, which gives a brighter and more open tone. In positions 6 and 7, the switch combines the pickups in series, which gives a fatter and more powerful tone.

How to wire your Stratocaster with the Eric Johnson wiring diagram

Wiring your Stratocaster with the Eric Johnson wiring diagram is not difficult, but it requires some basic knowledge of guitar electronics and soldering skills. You’ll need the following components:

  • A 4-pole 5-way switch (such as the CRL 5-way switch)
  • Three single-coil pickups
  • Capacitors (0.022uF for positions 2, 4, and 7, and 0.1uF for positions 6)
  • Wire and soldering tools

Here’s the wiring diagram:

Position Pickups Switch Caps
1 Bridge 1 0.022uF
2 Bridge + Middle 2 0.022uF
3 Middle 3 0.022uF
4 Middle + Neck 4 0.022uF
5 Neck 5 0.022uF
6 Bridge + Neck in Series 2 + 5 0.1uF
7 Bridge + Neck in Parallel 2 + 5 (with a jumper wire) 0.022uF

Before starting the installation, make sure to disconnect the guitar from the amp and remove the strings to avoid any damage to the pickups or electronics.

Here’s how to wire your Stratocaster with the Eric Johnson wiring diagram:

  1. Start by desoldering the old wiring from the pickups and the switch. Keep track of which wire goes where, as you’ll need to reconnect them later.
  2. Insert the new switch into the guitar body, making sure that it fits snugly and the terminals align with the holes in the pickguard.
  3. Solder the pickup wires to the switch according to the wiring diagram, making sure that the wires are connected to the correct terminals. Use a multimeter to check the continuity and make any necessary adjustments.
  4. Solder the capacitor to the corresponding terminals on the switch, following the wiring diagram. Make sure that the capacitor is connected in the correct orientation (the longer leg to the terminal with the highest number).
  5. Connect the ground wire to the back of the volume pot and the bridge. You can use a separate wire or a metal plate to create a ground loop.
  6. Test the guitar by plugging it into an amp and playing on each pickup position. Make any adjustments or fixes as needed.

FAQ

Is the Eric Johnson wiring mod worth it?

The Eric Johnson wiring mod is a great way to enhance your guitar’s tone and expand your tonal options. It’s a relatively simple mod that can be done on any Stratocaster guitar, and it doesn’t require any extra components or equipment. If you’re looking for a way to improve your guitar sound, the Eric Johnson wiring mod is definitely worth considering.

Do I need special pickups for the Eric Johnson wiring mod?

No, you don’t need special pickups for the Eric Johnson wiring mod. The mod can be done on any Stratocaster guitar with three single-coil pickups. However, keep in mind that different pickups will sound different with this mod, so you may want to experiment with different pickups to find the ones that work best for your style and preferences.

Can I undo the Eric Johnson wiring mod?

Yes, you can undo the Eric Johnson wiring mod by simply re-soldering the old wiring back to the pickups and switch. However, keep in mind that you may need to replace any components that were removed or modified during the installation, such as the volume or tone pots.

Can I install the Eric Johnson wiring mod on other guitars?

The Eric Johnson wiring mod is designed specifically for Stratocaster guitars, but you may be able to adapt it to other guitars with similar pickup configurations. However, keep in mind that the wiring may be different for other guitars, so you may need to make adjustments to the wiring diagram or seek professional help.

Can I customize the Eric Johnson wiring mod?

Yes, you can customize the Eric Johnson wiring mod to suit your preferences and needs. For example, you can experiment with different capacitor values or add a second tone control to the circuit. However, keep in mind that any modifications may affect the overall sound and functionality of the mod.

Do I need to be experienced with guitar wiring to install the Eric Johnson wiring mod?

While the Eric Johnson wiring mod is not difficult to install, it does require some basic knowledge of guitar electronics and soldering skills. If you’re not experienced with guitar wiring, you may want to seek professional help or practice on a less valuable guitar before attempting the mod on your main instrument.

Where can I find more information about the Eric Johnson wiring mod?

There are many resources available online that provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and tips for installing the Eric Johnson wiring mod on your Stratocaster guitar. You can also consult with your local guitar shop or luthier for advice and assistance.