Is Adding a Rotary Switch for Tone Control on an Electric Guitar a Good Idea?

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    Electric Guitar
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential modification of an electric guitar by adding a rotary switch for tone control, specifically through the selection of capacitors. Participants explore the implications of this modification on the instrument's sound quality and noise floor.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern that adding a rotary switch may negatively affect the noise floor of the guitar, seeking feedback from others with experience in similar modifications.
  • Another participant references historical use of capacitors and selector switches in Gretsch guitars, noting that such modifications can lead to undesirable tonal characteristics, referred to as the "mud switch." They suggest that the modification may not be suitable for achieving brighter tones.
  • A different participant shares their experience with a modification that allows for switching the polarity of one pickup, which can create a scooped midrange sound, suggesting that this could be a beneficial alternative to the rotary switch approach.
  • One participant recommends using a replacement pot with an integrated switch to avoid altering the guitar's exterior, indicating that this could provide a cleaner solution for modifying pickup polarity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present differing views on the effectiveness and desirability of adding a rotary switch for tone control, with no consensus reached on whether it is a good idea. Some advocate for alternative modifications, while others caution against potential negative impacts on sound quality.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention specific historical examples and personal experiences, but there are unresolved questions regarding the impact of the proposed modifications on sound quality and the overall design of the guitar.

arithmetix
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Hi Guys
I have been asked to consider modifying a brand-new kit-form electric guitar. The owner envisages an extra rotary switch providing a selection of capacitors providing tone control options.
My instinct is that this modification may be detrimental to the noise floor of the instrument, but it seems unreasonable to refuse on a matter of gut feeling so I'd greatly appreciate feedback from anyone who has tried something like this.
Thank you for considering my problem.
 
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Gretcsh used capacitors and a selector switch on its 1950-60 era guitars. Owners called it the "mud switch". Not a very attractive name, but I have refurbished a couple of these, and the name fits. Want jangle, sparkle, chime? Don't throw the mud switch.

One thing that I have done to several guitars is to install a switching option that flips the polarity of the windings of one of the pickups. Sometimes guitarists call that "out of phase" though that is inaccurate. What that mod does is allow you to scoop out the mids. In the first incarnation of Fleetwood Mac, Peter Green's Les Paul guitar had one pickup reversed permanently, so when he switched to the middle position (both pickups on) he got a nice hollow, dry sound that he could sculpt by varying the other controls. If you can, you should bread board this external to the guitar and see if the owner likes it before making permanent mods.
 
... thank you.
 
arithmetix said:
... thank you.
Your'e welcome. If there is enough room in the body, you can get a replacement pot with a DPDT switch incorporated into it (either push-pull or spring-loaded push-push switch) to switch the polarity of one pickup so you don't have to booger up the exterior of the guitar with a toggle switch. Stewart MacDonald may have what you're looking for.