Are you looking to recreate the iconic sound of Eddie Van Halen? The EVH wiring diagram is the key to achieving that signature tone. In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know about the wiring diagram, including its history, components, and how to install it properly. Let’s get started.
What is the EVH Wiring Diagram?
The EVH wiring diagram is a special wiring configuration developed by Eddie Van Halen and his guitar tech, Matt Bruck. It is designed to give the guitar a high output, yet smooth and balanced sound. The wiring diagram uses a combination of different components, including two humbucking pickups, a dummy coil, and a five-way switch.
This wiring scheme has been used on various guitar models, including the original Charvel and Kramer guitars, as well as the EVH line of guitars produced by Fender.
The History of the EVH Wiring Diagram
The EVH wiring diagram was first created in the early 1980s when Eddie Van Halen was experimenting with different pickup configurations to achieve his signature sound. He worked closely with his guitar tech, Matt Bruck, to develop the wiring diagram that would later become the standard for his guitars.
The wiring diagram was initially used on his iconic “Frankenstrat” guitar, which was made from various guitar parts, including a Fender Stratocaster body and a Gibson PAF humbucker pickup. Eddie modified the guitar by adding a dummy coil and using the five-way switch to control the pickups’ tone and volume.
The EVH wiring diagram gained popularity among guitarists in the 1980s and has since become a sought-after configuration for recreating Eddie Van Halen’s sound.
The Components of the EVH Wiring Diagram
The EVH wiring diagram uses several components that work together to produce its unique sound. Here’s a breakdown of each component:
Humbucking Pickups
The EVH wiring diagram uses two humbucking pickups, one in the bridge position and one in the neck position. Humbucking pickups are known for their high output and reduced noise compared to single-coil pickups.
The pickups used in the EVH wiring diagram are typically high-output models such as the Seymour Duncan JB or the DiMarzio Super Distortion. These pickups deliver a powerful, yet smooth and balanced sound, which is essential for achieving the classic “Brown Sound” associated with Van Halen’s music.
Dummy Coil
The dummy coil is a crucial component of the EVH wiring diagram. It is essentially a passive humbucker that cancels out unwanted noise and interference. The dummy coil is placed between the pickups and is wired in reverse polarity to cancel out noise that would otherwise be picked up by the pickups.
Five-Way Switch
The five-way switch is used to control the pickups’ tone and volume. In the EVH wiring diagram, the switch is configured to split the humbucking pickups’ coils in positions two and four, resulting in a single-coil sound. This configuration provides a wider range of tonal options, allowing the player to achieve various sounds, from warm and mellow to bright and cutting.
How to Install the EVH Wiring Diagram
Installing the EVH wiring diagram requires some basic knowledge of guitar electronics. If you’re not comfortable working with electronics, it’s best to have a professional do the installation for you. Here are the steps to install the wiring diagram:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You’ll need the following materials to install the EVH wiring diagram:
- EVH wiring diagram
- Soldering iron and solder
- Wire cutters and strippers
- Pliers
- Guitar cables
Step 2: Remove the Old Wiring
The first step is to remove the old wiring from your guitar. This involves removing the strings, pickguard, and control plate to access the electronics. Cut the wires that connect the pickups, switch, and pots to the output jack. Using a soldering iron, remove the old solder from the joints.
Step 3: Install the New Wiring
With the old wiring removed, it’s time to install the new wiring according to the EVH wiring diagram. The wiring diagram shows where each wire should be connected, including the pickups, switch, and pots. Follow the diagram carefully, making sure to solder each joint correctly.
Step 4: Test Your Guitar
Once you’ve installed the new wiring, it’s time to test your guitar. Reattach the pickguard, strings, and control plate. Plug in your guitar and test each position on the switch to make sure everything is working correctly. If there are any issues, double-check the wiring and solder joints.
EVH Wiring Diagram FAQ
What makes the EVH wiring diagram different from other wiring diagrams?
The EVH wiring diagram uses a combination of different components, including humbucking pickups, a dummy coil, and a five-way switch, to achieve its unique sound. It’s designed to give the guitar a high output, yet smooth and balanced sound, which is essential for achieving Eddie Van Halen’s signature tone.
Can the EVH wiring diagram be used on any guitar?
The EVH wiring diagram can be used on most guitars that have two humbucker pickups and a five-way switch. However, some modifications may need to be made to the guitar to accommodate the additional components, such as the dummy coil.
Is it difficult to install the EVH wiring diagram?
Installing the EVH wiring diagram requires some basic knowledge of guitar electronics. If you’re not comfortable working with electronics, it’s best to have a professional do the installation for you.
Is the EVH wiring diagram worth the effort?
If you’re a fan of Eddie Van Halen’s music, the EVH wiring diagram is definitely worth the effort. It’s the key to achieving his signature tone, and it can take your playing to the next level.
Can I buy a guitar that already has the EVH wiring diagram installed?
Yes, there are several guitar models available that come with the EVH wiring diagram pre-installed, including the EVH line of guitars produced by Fender.
In Conclusion
The EVH wiring diagram is an essential component of achieving Eddie Van Halen’s signature tone. It’s a combination of different components that work together to produce a high output, yet smooth and balanced sound. If you’re looking to recreate the classic “Brown Sound” associated with Van Halen’s music, the EVH wiring diagram is the key. We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding the history, components, and installation of the EVH wiring diagram.
