Fender Telecaster is a classic electric guitar model that has been around since the 1950s. It is known for its unique twangy sound that has been featured in countless famous recordings. One of the key components that contribute to the Telecaster’s sound is the pickup. The Fender Noiseless Tele pickups are a popular choice among guitar players who want to eliminate unwanted hum and noise. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for these pickups and how it can improve your guitar’s sound.
What are Fender Noiseless Tele Pickups?
Fender Noiseless Tele pickups are single-coil pickups that use special materials and design to reduce noise and hum. Traditional single-coil pickups, such as those found in vintage Telecasters, are susceptible to interference from external sources, such as fluorescent lights, computer screens, and even other electronic devices. The Noiseless Tele pickups use a stacked coil design that cancels out the noise and hum, while retaining the classic Telecaster sound.
The Noiseless Tele pickups come in two different versions: the Vintage Noiseless and the Hot Noiseless. The Vintage Noiseless is designed to sound like the original Telecaster pickups from the 1950s, but without the noise. The Hot Noiseless is a more modern version that provides higher output and a hotter sound.
Wiring Diagram for Fender Noiseless Tele Pickups
The wiring diagram for Fender Noiseless Tele pickups is relatively simple compared to other pickup configurations. The pickups are wired in parallel, which means that the signal from each pickup goes into the same output jack. The wiring diagram consists of three wires: hot, ground, and shield. The shield wire is used to connect the pickups to the guitar’s metal bridge and control plate, which reduces noise and hum.
Here is the wiring diagram for Fender Noiseless Tele pickups:
| Wire color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Ground |
| White | Hot (bridge pickup) |
| Red | Hot (neck pickup) |
When installing the pickups, it is important to follow the wiring diagram to ensure that the pickups are wired correctly. It is also important to use high-quality shielded cables to connect the pickups to the output jack and control pots.
FAQ
Q: Can I use Fender Noiseless Tele pickups in other guitars?
A: Yes, you can use Fender Noiseless Tele pickups in other guitars, as long as they have the same pickup configuration (i.e., two single-coil pickups). However, you may need to modify the wiring to match the wiring diagram for the Noiseless Tele pickups.
Q: Do I need to shield my guitar’s control cavity?
A: It is recommended to shield your guitar’s control cavity to reduce noise and hum. You can use copper tape or conductive paint to shield the cavity. It is also important to shield the back of the pickguard, as this can also contribute to noise and hum.
Q: Can I mix and match Fender Noiseless Tele pickups with other pickups?
A: Yes, you can mix and match Fender Noiseless Tele pickups with other pickups, as long as they have the same output impedance. However, keep in mind that different pickups may have different tonal characteristics, which can affect the overall sound of your guitar.
Q: How do I adjust the pickup height?
A: To adjust the pickup height, use a screwdriver to adjust the screws on either side of the pickup. The closer the pickup is to the strings, the louder and brighter the sound will be. The farther away the pickup is from the strings, the softer and warmer the sound will be. It is recommended to experiment with different pickup heights to find the sweet spot for your particular guitar and playing style.
Q: Can I use Fender Noiseless Tele pickups for heavy distortion and high-gain tones?
A: Yes, you can use Fender Noiseless Tele pickups for heavy distortion and high-gain tones, especially if you use the Hot Noiseless version. However, keep in mind that Telecaster pickups are known for their bright and twangy sound, so you may need to adjust your amp settings and pedals to achieve the desired tone.
Conclusion
Fender Noiseless Tele pickups are a great option for guitar players who want to eliminate noise and hum, while retaining the classic Telecaster sound. The wiring diagram for these pickups is simple and easy to follow, making it a popular mod for many Telecaster enthusiasts. By installing these pickups and following the wiring diagram, you can improve the sound of your Telecaster and enjoy playing without the unwanted noise and hum.
