Are you looking for the perfect wiring diagram for your 1970 Gibson Les Paul? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the history and specifications of the Gibson Les Paul and provide you with all the information you need to successfully wire your guitar. We’ll also include a detailed wiring diagram, tables, and FAQs to help answer any questions you may have.
The History of the Gibson Les Paul
The Gibson Les Paul is one of the most iconic guitars in rock and roll history. It was first introduced in 1952 and was designed by legendary guitarist Les Paul and Gibson’s Ted McCarty. The Les Paul quickly became popular among guitarists and has been used by many of the world’s most famous musicians such as Jimmy Page, Slash, and Eric Clapton.
The Les Paul has gone through many changes over the years, with different variations being released such as the Classic, Studio and Custom models. The 1970 Les Paul had a solid mahogany body with a maple top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard. It also featured two humbucking pickups, which became a signature feature of the Les Paul sound.
Wiring Specifications
Before we get into the wiring diagram, let’s take a look at the specifications for the 1970 Gibson Les Paul wiring. The pickups used were two humbuckers, each with four conductor wiring. The master volume and tone controls were 500k ohm pots, and the capacitors were .022uF. The output jack was a standard 1/4″ mono jack.
Pickups
The two humbucking pickups used in the 1970 Gibson Les Paul were designed to cancel out the hum and noise often associated with single coil pickups. Each pickup had four conductor wiring, which allowed for a variety of wiring configurations. The most common wiring configuration used was the standard Les Paul wiring, which we’ll explore in detail in the next section.
Pots and Capacitors
The master volume and tone controls for the 1970 Gibson Les Paul were both 500k ohm pots. The higher resistance of the pots helped to preserve the high-end frequencies of the guitar’s tone. The capacitors used were .022uF, which allowed for a bright and clear tone. It’s worth noting that different values of capacitors can be used to achieve different tones.
Output Jack
The output jack on the 1970 Gibson Les Paul was a standard 1/4″ mono jack. This type of jack is still commonly used today and can be easily replaced if needed.
The Les Paul Wiring Diagram
Now that we’ve covered the wiring specifications for the 1970 Gibson Les Paul, let’s take a look at the wiring diagram. The wiring diagram below shows the standard Les Paul wiring configuration:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Red | Hot Output from Bridge Pickup |
| Green | Ground for Bridge Pickup |
| White | Hot Output from Neck Pickup |
| Black | Ground for Neck Pickup |
| Bare | Ground for Bridge and Tailpiece |
The wiring diagram shows the connection points for the pickups, pots, and output jack. The red and white wires from each pickup are connected to the center lugs of their respective volume pots. The green and black wires from each pickup are soldered together and connected to the back of their respective volume pots. The output jack is connected to the center lug of the tone pot and the ground lug of the volume pot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a 1970 Les Paul and a modern Les Paul?
The main difference between a 1970 Les Paul and a modern Les Paul is the wiring configuration. Modern Les Pauls often have push/pull potentiometers that allow for coil splitting, phase switching, and other tonal options. The pickups and other components have also been improved and modernized.
Can I use different value capacitors in my Les Paul?
Yes, you can use different value capacitors to achieve different tones. A higher value capacitor will result in a darker tone, while a lower value capacitor will result in a brighter tone. Experimenting with different values can help you find your desired tone.
Can I modify the wiring in my Les Paul?
Yes, you can modify the wiring in your Les Paul to achieve different tones or functions. However, it’s important to have a basic understanding of electronics and guitar wiring before attempting any modifications. It’s also recommended to consult with a professional guitar technician before making any changes to your guitar.
Where can I find replacement parts for my Les Paul?
Replacement parts for your Les Paul can be found at most music stores or online retailers. It’s important to make sure you purchase parts that are compatible with your specific Les Paul model and year.
Can I wire my Les Paul myself?
If you have a basic understanding of electronics and guitar wiring, you can wire your Les Paul yourself. However, it’s recommended to consult with a professional guitar technician or do further research before attempting any wiring modifications.
Conclusion
The 1970 Gibson Les Paul is a classic guitar that has been used by many of the world’s most famous musicians. The wiring diagram and specifications provided in this article will help you successfully wire your Les Paul and achieve the classic Les Paul sound. Remember to take your time and consult with a professional if needed. Happy wiring!
