If you’re looking to add an extra element of sound manipulation to your guitar playing, a kill switch is a great way to do it. A kill switch is a button or toggle that cuts off the sound from your guitar when pressed, allowing for unique rhythmic effects and staccato playing. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of wiring a kill switch to your guitar using a simple diagram.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the wiring process, here’s a list of the things you’ll need:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) toggle switch | The kind of switch that is commonly used for a guitar kill switch. You can find it at any electronics or guitar store. |
| Wire (22-gauge) | You’ll need some wire to connect the switch to your guitar’s output jack. 22-gauge wire is a good thickness for this. |
| Soldering iron and solder | You’ll need to solder the wires to the switch and output jack. A soldering iron and solder can be found at any electronics store. |
| Wire stripper/cutter | You’ll need this tool to strip and cut the wire to the appropriate length. |
The Wiring Diagram
Before you begin wiring, it’s important to have a clear diagram of what you’ll be doing. Here’s a basic diagram of how to wire a kill switch into your guitar:
Note that the color of the wire doesn’t matter, as long as you keep track of which wire is which and connect them to the correct terminals.
The Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Make sure you have all the materials listed above before starting the process.
Step 2: Remove the Output Jack Plate
Unscrew the output jack plate on your guitar to expose the wiring. You’ll see two wires coming out of the output jack – one from the hot wire (usually red) and one from the ground wire (usually black).
Step 3: Solder Wires to the Toggle Switch
Strip the ends of your 22-gauge wire and solder one to the middle terminal of the toggle switch, and the other to one of the outer terminals. It doesn’t matter which outer terminal you choose, as long as you remember which one it is.
Step 4: Solder the Hot Wire to the Other Terminal on the Toggle Switch
Solder the wire from the hot terminal on the output jack to the other outer terminal on the toggle switch (the one you didn’t use in step 3).
Step 5: Reattach the Output Jack Plate
Screw the output jack plate back onto your guitar.
Step 6: Testing
Turn on your amplifier and test out the kill switch by pressing the toggle button. If everything was wired correctly, the sound should cut off when you press the button and come back on when you release it.
FAQ
What if my guitar has a battery-powered preamp?
Most battery-powered preamps have a switch built in that turns off the power when the guitar is unplugged or not in use. If you’re unsure, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact their customer service for assistance.
Is it possible to wire a kill switch without a toggle switch?
Yes, it is possible to use other types of switches, such as push-button switches or foot pedals, but the wiring process may be different depending on the switch. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or do some research online to find the best method for your desired switch.
Can I wire a kill switch into a bass guitar?
Yes, the wiring process is the same for bass guitars as it is for regular guitars.
Can I wire a kill switch into an acoustic guitar?
While it is possible, it may not be as effective due to the acoustic nature of the guitar’s sound. It may also require some modifications to the guitar’s internal wiring, which can be difficult for those without experience with acoustic guitar repairs.
Can I remove a kill switch if I change my mind?
Yes, the process of removing a kill switch is essentially the same as the process of installing one. Simply reverse the steps and remove the toggle switch and wires from the output jack.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to wire a guitar kill switch, you can experiment with different sound effects and styles of playing. Remember to take your time and double-check your work to ensure safe and effective wiring. Have fun!
