When it comes to customizing a guitar, one of the most popular modifications is changing the pickups or adding more of them. However, adding more pickups also means you need a switch that can handle multiple combinations of coils. This is where the Fender 5 Way Super Switch comes into play.
What is a Fender 5 Way Super Switch?
A Fender 5 Way Super Switch is a versatile switch that allows you to wire your guitar in a variety of ways. It is called a “super” switch because it has more contact points than a standard switch. Instead of just on/off, the Fender 5 Way Super Switch has seven contact points, which means you can wire up to four pickups and control the various switching options.
It was first introduced by Fender in the mid-1970s and has since become a popular choice among guitarists who want to customize their sound without having to swap out pickups.
How to Wire a Fender 5 Way Super Switch
Wiring a Fender 5 Way Super Switch can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to guitar wiring. However, with some patience and attention to detail, it can be done. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to wire a Fender 5 Way Super Switch:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you start wiring, gather all the materials you will need. You will need:
- Fender 5 Way Super Switch
- Soldering Iron
- Solder
- Wire Cutters
- Wire Strippers
- Electrical Tape
Step 2: Plan Your Wiring Diagram
Before you start soldering, plan your wiring diagram. Decide which pickups you will use and where to position them. This will help you avoid mistakes and make the wiring process smoother.
Step 3: Prepare the Wires
Using the wire cutters and wire strippers, prepare the wires that will be soldered onto the switch. Strip about an inch of insulation from each wire.
Step 4: Solder the Wires Onto the Switch
Start soldering the wires onto the switch according to your wiring diagram. It’s important to be careful and not overheat the switch. Make sure the solder is flowing evenly before moving on.
Step 5: Test Your Wiring
Once all the wires are soldered, test your wiring by plugging in the guitar and playing with the switch to see if it is working properly. If everything is working correctly, you can close up the guitar and enjoy your new wiring setup!
FAQs
What are some common wiring setups for a Fender 5 Way Super Switch?
There are several common wiring setups for a Fender 5 Way Super Switch:
- Standard Stratocaster wiring – this is the most common wiring setup, where the switch controls the neck, middle, and bridge pickups individually.
- HSS (humbucker-single-single) wiring – this setup is popular among players who want a mix of single-coil and humbucker tones.
- HH (humbucker-humbucker) wiring – this setup is popular among players who want a heavier, more metal-oriented sound.
What are the advantages of using a Fender 5 Way Super Switch?
There are several advantages of using a Fender 5 Way Super Switch:
- Versatility – the switch allows you to wire your guitar in a variety of ways, giving you more options for your tone.
- Customization – you can customize your guitar’s sound without having to swap out pickups.
- Easy to use – once you understand the wiring process, it’s fairly easy to use the switch to control your guitar’s tone.
Can I wire a Fender 5 Way Super Switch to control other guitar components?
Yes, you can wire a Fender 5 Way Super Switch to control other guitar components, such as tone or volume knobs. This can allow for even more customization.
Conclusion
The Fender 5 Way Super Switch is a versatile and popular switch for guitarists who want to customize their sound. While wiring it up can be a bit tricky, the results are well worth the effort. With some patience and attention to detail, you can wire your guitar to your exact specifications and enjoy a wider range of tones.
