ESB-4SC First Build

[WeirdBits]

Generally, people use 'A' pots for volume and 'B' pots for tone (or 'A' for tone too). But, there's no hard and fast rule as different pots suit different configurations and/or different tastes.

There's no reason you can't use LP style wiring on the bass (like this), it's just the hole layout on the ESB-4SC is a little awkward for the 2 volume, 2 tone config... but whatever works for you. The GR-1SF diagram you linked above would also be fine to use, just with a single cap and the master tone positioned down with the two pickup volumes.

The pots should be marked as either A500K or 500KA etc. on the upper edge (like JT's image), the side or sometimes the back depending on which version of pots were included in your kit.

[dingobass]

Wot Weirdy said

[Arzi]

Hi Dekka

The RC-4 uses two volumes and two tones. You can find the diagram in the guides section of the forum.

[Dekka28]

thank you guys for all your answers.

the build has slowed down a bit with very crappy weather making it difficult to sand outside (no workshop for me unfortunately)

I am now on 13 TO coats and did the first 600 grit sanding. It's getting really smooth and lovely. Couple of places on the head stock went through to the stain for some reasons but nothing that could be fixed quickly.

I also bought a couple of .047 uF capacitors just in case the stock ones are not working as i can't test them. Can I use 2 of these in a 2 tone, 2 volumes wiring system? and if so what would be the difference with the stock capacitors?

[Swanny]

The grain on the neck and body is looking fantastic! I'm sure it looks even better in person. It's hard to get photos to show what you actually are seeing.

You could use those caps in place of the stock ones, but you wouldn't notice any difference. As to them being faulty... they are pretty hardy, and don't fail much at all! Just solder them in according to the wiring diagram you choose to follow.

Keep up with the good work!

[Arzi]

Hi Dekka

Good to hear you're making progress. The TO is ultra thin as you now found out. Next with finer grit and finer touch and it will look great. To get it really flat needs alot of layers but it will reward you in the end. Nice going.

[Dekka28]

it's been a while. progress has been really slow but steady.

I have now reached TO coat 15. Did 2 TO sanding (one at 10 with 800 grit and one at 15 with 1000 grit). Loving the results but it's a patience game.



It is starting to look great.

I checked the frets' distance as well and everything looks good ( a whisker off in some places but nothing major)

Probably will start the dreaded wiring this weekend

[Arzi]

Looking great! Now putting the pieces together and participating to GOTM ...

[Dekka28]

Thanks Arzi, That means a lot. I will definitely put it out there. The question is December or January!!!

I reckon there is another 5 coats minimum. The head stock has given me problems on a couple of occasion when applying steel wool and sanding where I went right back to the stain in a couple of very small areas. So more TO it is...

[Fretworn]

That finish is looking great Dekka.