- Genuine Fender replacement part - 250K OHM - Used for both volume and tone controls - Solid shaft design requires screw mount knob - Can be used with other brands of instruments [Read more]
- 250K OHM - Short shaft (mounts thru pickguards & thin bodies) - Split shaft (for use with press on style knobs) - Commonly used with single coil pickups for both volume and tone controls [Read more]
Many manufacturer's use the same pot for both volume and tone. Others may use Audio Taper for volume and Linear Taper for tone.
Linear vs Audio
Linear taper pots are marked with an A (ex. A500k, 500KA). Audio taper pots are marked with a B or Lin.
Value 250K, 500K, 1MEG
Pots are given values according to their resistance which is measured in OHMS. Check the wiring diagram or original pot casing for value.
Long Shaft vs. Short Shaft
Long shaft pots are often necessary when the pot is passed thru the actual top of the instrument. (ex. Les Paul). Short shaft pots are used when mounting directly to a thin pickguard. (ex. Strat)
Split Shaft vs. Solid Shaft
The type of shaft used on a pot dictates the types of knobs that can be used. Solid shaft pots are ideal for knobs which are secured by a set screw thru the side. Split shaft pots use knobs which press on.
Mini Pots
These are often used in active circuits or when space is limited. Their smaller size is helpful when numerous components must fit in cramped quarters.
Push/Pull Pots
Serve as a traditional rotating pot as well as a switch which is actuated when pulled up and pushed down.
Selector Switches
The majority of electric guitars are equipped with more than one pickup. In order to create a variety of tones, selector switches are used to choose which pickups are "on".
Brand Names
While some manufacturers offer pots that are branded with their name it is usually not necessary to use the same brand of potentiometer. More importantly is to match the OHM, type, shaft and length.
How do I know which pot to purchase? Many pots will have their values engraved on their casing. If not, you can check the manufacturer's wiring diagram for specs.
You can also measure a functioning pots resistance using an OHM meter. Attach a lead to each of the outer lugs, rotate the pot fully in both directions and take an OHM reading of resistance.
