If you are a guitar enthusiast, you may have come across the term ‘Sustainiac’ while researching ways to enhance the sound quality and performance of your guitar. The Sustainiac pickup system allows you to sustain notes and create unique soundscapes that were previously impossible to achieve. However, wiring this system can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to wiring your guitar with the Sustainiac system, along with frequently asked questions and helpful tips.
What is a Sustainiac Pickup System?
Before we dive into the wiring process, let’s briefly discuss what a Sustainiac pickup system is and how it works. Sustainiac is an active pickup system that uses a special device to sustain notes indefinitely. The device is connected to your guitar’s circuit board and amplifies the signal from your guitar’s strings. Unlike traditional pickups, the Sustainiac can be switched on and off, allowing you to toggle between sustained and natural notes.
There are two types of Sustainiac systems: the Stealth Pro and the Sustainiac Retrofit. The Stealth Pro is a complete pickup system that includes a sustainer driver, a control module, and a neck pickup. The Retrofit is a replacement driver that can be installed in place of your guitar’s existing pickup. Both systems work in the same way, but the Retrofit is more versatile as it can be added to any guitar with the same pickup size and mounting layout.
Tools and Materials Required
Before we start wiring, here are the tools and materials that you will need:
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
| Soldering iron | Sustainiac driver |
| Solder | Sustainiac control module |
| Wire cutters | Neck pickup (for Stealth Pro system only) |
| Wire strippers | Battery holder with 9V battery |
| Screwdrivers | Shielded wire |
| Wrenches (for Retrofit system) | Heat shrink tubing |
Wiring the Sustainiac System
Step 1: Remove the Existing Pickup
The first step is to remove the existing pickup from your guitar. If you are using the Stealth Pro system, you will need to remove both pickups. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the pickup mounting ring and carefully lift the pickup out of the guitar body. Be sure to keep the screws and mounting hardware safe for later use.
Step 2: Install the Sustainiac Driver
Next, install the Sustainiac driver in place of the pickup. For the Stealth Pro system, you will need to install both the driver and the neck pickup. Align the mounting holes of the driver with the screw holes of the pickup mounting ring and screw them in place. If you are using the Retrofit system, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Step 3: Wiring the Control Module
Now it’s time to wire the control module. The module controls the power and switching of the Sustainiac system. Solder the shielded wire from the Sustainiac driver to the control module. The shielded wire acts as a ground wire and should be attached to the ground terminal on the module. Next, solder the power wire to the power terminal on the module. This wire will carry power from the battery to the driver. Finally, the switching wire should be soldered to the switch terminal on the module. This wire will control the on/off switching of the Sustainiac system.
Step 4: Connect the Battery Holder
Connect the battery holder to the control module. The battery holder should be wired directly to the power terminal on the module. Use the heat shrink tubing to protect the soldered connections and prevent short circuits. Insert a fresh 9V battery into the holder and secure it in place.
Step 5: Reinstall the Pickups
If you are using the Stealth Pro system, reinstall the neck pickup and the new Sustainiac pickup. Screw the pickups back into place and attach the wiring to the control module. If you are using the Retrofit system, reinstall the original pickup in place of the Sustainiac driver. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wiring the pickup to the control module.
Step 6: Test the System
Once you have completed the wiring, it’s time to test the system. Turn on your amplifier and switch on the Sustainiac system. Play a note and listen for sustained sound. If everything is wired correctly, you should be able to sustain notes for as long as you want. If you experience any issues or no sound, go back to the wiring and check your connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between the Stealth Pro and Retrofit Sustainiac systems?
The Stealth Pro is a complete pickup system that includes a sustainer driver, a control module, and a neck pickup. The Retrofit is a replacement driver that can be installed in place of your guitar’s existing pickup. Both systems work in the same way, but the Retrofit is more versatile as it can be added to any guitar with the same pickup size and mounting layout.
2. Do I need special tools to wire the Sustainiac system?
You will need basic soldering tools, including a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters and strippers, and screwdrivers. For the Retrofit system, you may also need wrenches to remove the existing pickup. Additionally, you will need a battery holder with a fresh 9V battery, shielded wire, and heat shrink tubing.
3. Can I wire the Sustainiac system myself if I am a beginner?
Yes, you can wire the Sustainiac system yourself if you follow the instructions carefully and have basic soldering skills. However, if you are not confident in your abilities or have never soldered before, consider consulting a professional guitar technician or electrician.
4. Can I use the Sustainiac system with any guitar?
The Sustainiac system can be used with most guitars, but you will need to make sure that your guitar has space for a driver and control module. Additionally, for the Stealth Pro system, you will need to install the new neck pickup in place of the existing pickup. For the Retrofit system, you will need to make sure that the mounting size and layout of the Sustainiac driver match that of your guitar’s pickup.
Conclusion
The Sustainiac pickup system is an innovative device that can transform the sound and performance of your guitar. Wiring the system requires basic soldering skills and careful attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can install the Sustainiac system yourself and enjoy sustained notes and unique soundscapes. If you encounter any issues or have further questions, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek the advice of a professional guitar technician or electrician.
