The Stratocaster is one of the most iconic electric guitars ever made, and one of its defining features is the 5-way switch. This switch allows players to access different pickup combinations, giving them a wide range of tones to choose from. However, understanding how to wire a Strat 5-way switch can be a bit daunting, especially for beginners.
What is a 5-way switch?
Before we dive into the wiring diagram, let’s first define what a 5-way switch is. A 5-way switch is a type of rotary switch that has five different positions. In the case of a Stratocaster, each position represents a different combination of pickups that are being used.
Here are the five positions of a Strat 5-way switch:
| Position | Pickup Combination |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bridge pickup |
| 2 | Bridge and middle pickups |
| 3 | Middle pickup |
| 4 | Middle and neck pickups |
| 5 | Neck pickup |
Wiring diagram
Now that we know what a 5-way switch is and what each position represents, let’s take a look at the wiring diagram.
Before we begin, it’s important to note that there are a few different ways to wire a Strat 5-way switch, depending on what type of pickups you are using and what kind of tone you are going for. However, the most common wiring diagram is as follows:
Position 1: Bridge pickup only
Position 2: Bridge and middle pickups in parallel
Position 3: Middle pickup only
Position 4: Middle and neck pickups in parallel
Position 5: Neck pickup only
Here’s the wiring diagram:
As you can see, each pickup has two wires that need to be connected to the switch. The black wire represents the hot wire, which is the wire that carries the signal from the pickup. The white wire represents the ground wire, which helps to reduce noise and interference.
Position 1: Bridge pickup only
In this position, the 5-way switch connects the hot wire from the bridge pickup to the output jack. The ground wire from the bridge pickup is connected to the back of the volume pot.
Some players prefer to use this position for high-gain distortion, as it provides a bright and cutting tone.
Position 2: Bridge and middle pickups in parallel
In this position, the 5-way switch connects the hot wires from the bridge and middle pickups together, and then sends them to the output jack. The ground wires from both pickups are connected to the back of the volume pot.
This position provides a bright and punchy tone that is great for rhythm playing and lead work.
Position 3: Middle pickup only
In this position, the 5-way switch connects the hot wire from the middle pickup to the output jack. The ground wire from the middle pickup is connected to the back of the volume pot.
This position provides a clean and balanced tone that is great for fingerpicking and arpeggios.
Position 4: Middle and neck pickups in parallel
In this position, the 5-way switch connects the hot wires from the middle and neck pickups together, and then sends them to the output jack. The ground wires from both pickups are connected to the back of the volume pot.
This position provides a warm and rich tone that is great for blues and jazz playing.
Position 5: Neck pickup only
In this position, the 5-way switch connects the hot wire from the neck pickup to the output jack. The ground wire from the neck pickup is connected to the back of the volume pot.
This position provides a smooth and mellow tone that is great for ballads and clean playing.
FAQ
1. Can I use different pickups with this wiring diagram?
Yes, you can use different pickups with this wiring diagram. However, depending on the type of pickups you are using, you may need to make some adjustments to the wiring.
2. Can I modify this wiring diagram to get different tones?
Yes, there are many ways to modify this wiring diagram to get different tones. For example, you could add a series/parallel switch to get thicker tones, or you could add a push/pull pot to get single-coil tones from a humbucker pickup.
3. Do I need to have any special tools or skills to wire a Strat 5-way switch?
While it’s always helpful to have some basic electrical knowledge and soldering skills, wiring a Strat 5-way switch is not too difficult. All you really need is a wiring diagram, some wire cutters/strippers, and a soldering iron.
4. Should I shield my guitar’s electronics?
Shielding your guitar’s electronics can help to reduce noise and interference, especially in situations where there are a lot of other electronic devices nearby (e.g. on stage). However, it’s not always necessary, and some players prefer the slightly “dirtier” tone that comes with unshielded electronics.
5. Can I use this wiring diagram for a different type of guitar?
No, this wiring diagram is specifically for a Stratocaster with three single-coil pickups. If you have a different type of guitar (e.g. a Les Paul with humbucker pickups), you will need a different wiring diagram.
Overall, wiring a Strat 5-way switch is a great way to get a wide range of tones out of your guitar. Whether you’re playing rock, blues, jazz, or anything in between, this wiring diagram is a great place to start. So why not give it a try and see what kind of tones you can come up with?
