Hi All,
I am about to start a build (style) and have upgraded to some tonerider pickups. I probably know the answer to this but how important do you all feel it is to upgrade the pots, switches etc from a sounds quality perspective?
Hi All,
I am about to start a build (style) and have upgraded to some tonerider pickups. I probably know the answer to this but how important do you all feel it is to upgrade the pots, switches etc from a sounds quality perspective?
All electrical components on an electric guitar will effect it's performance and tone quality. Tone is also a matter of personal choice and what you want to achieve. Depending on the style of build, upgrading can always be done later after you hear how it initially sounds. Tele's are very easy to upgrade but a semi hollow body can be a pain.
Toneriders are a good choice. I have some in my Tele and they sound great.
I have found the standard kit is not too bad. Capacitors can be bought at Jaycar for a few cents each. I always upgrade the input jack so it's nice and tight. Pots and switches are readily available online.
But I usually plug it in when it's finished and then see how it sounds, you can never underestimate what a good amp can do too.
I test everything before soldering it in to make sure the specs are close to what the design asks for.
I have tended to use either CTS or Bourns pots, but I honestly don't know that it matters. If your parts spec properly and the pots aren't scratchy electricity probably doesn't care where it's made or who made it. I use the name brands mostly for consistency of quality and durability. Not sure they actually are more durable
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Thanks for all the advice - will stick with the kit electronics and go from there once it’s all together
Hi FCD.
Reading your other post, I know you got a TL kit. It's worth noting that if you want to upgrade the pots, specifically to 24mm pots, the control cavity in the PBG TL kits need to be widened to accommodate the larger pots. This means routing (or other similar method) and that is much better to do (IMO) before getting any finish on the body.
Routing can be done after finishing, but you always run the risk of damaging that finish which likely took you many hours to get it right.
I try and think ahead as far as possible so can have as much routed & drilled etc before beginning my finish. Sometimes it's inevitable that something will need doing after the finish goes on, but do as much as you can beforehand is my advice.
I mentioned this in another post the other day but I'll repeat it here, there are good quality mini-pots available too if doing the routing isn't a viable option for you.
I will also put my hand up for Tonerider pickups. I've had/have a few sets and they all sound great. Equally as good as many twice their price.
Making the world a better place; one guitar at a time...
Thanks for this info - am going to do the build and if I would like to upgrade I will put some mini pots in as stated.
As this is my first build and I have no real wood working skills and limited tools I think this is the best option.
Making the world a better place; one guitar at a time...
Couple of mm (edit) both sides.
I used one of these.
https://www.bunnings.com.au/ozito-17...l-kit_p6290175
cheers, Mark.