If you’re looking to upgrade or customize your Gibson SG, wiring can be a great way to go. Wiring options for the Gibson SG can be overwhelming and confusing, but with a bit of patience and some basic knowledge, the process can be relatively simple. In this article, we’ll cover all the basics of wiring your Gibson SG including standard wiring options, different pickups, 50s vs modern wiring, push-pull pots, common mods, and alternative wiring diagrams.
How do I Wire a Gibson SG?
First things first: Before you begin any wiring work on your Gibson SG, make sure that you turn off the power and disconnect the guitar from any amplifiers or other devices. This will ensure that you and your instrument stay safe throughout the process.
Now that you’re ready, it’s time to get started with the wiring. The first step is to remove the pickguard or control plate, depending on which model of SG you have. From there, you’ll need to identify and locate the three main parts of the wiring: the bridge pickup selector switch, the tone control, and the volume control. Once you’ve identified these three parts, you’ll need to attach the wires to each, following the diagram provided by Gibson. For more detailed instructions, refer to the user manual that came with your guitar or search online for wiring diagrams specific to your Gibson SG model.
What are the Standard Wiring Options for a Gibson SG?
There are a few standard wiring options that are available for the Gibson SG. These include the traditional Gibson wiring with two humbuckers and two controls, as well as a variety of other possibilities such as coil tapping, phase switching, and series/parallel switching. Depending on the model of SG you have, the wiring may differ slightly, so be sure to double-check the wiring diagrams provided by Gibson to ensure you’re doing it right.
Can I Use Different Pickups in a Gibson SG?
Yes, if you want to customize the sound of your Gibson SG, you can replace the stock pickups with ones of your choice. Many companies make aftermarket pickups that are designed specifically for the Gibson SG, so you have plenty of options to choose from. Make sure to double-check the specs of any pickups you’re considering to make sure they’ll fit your guitar and give you the sound you’re looking for.
What is the Difference Between 50s and Modern Wiring in a Gibson SG?
The main difference between 50s wiring and modern wiring in a Gibson SG is the placement of the tone and volume controls. In a 50s wiring setup, the tone control is placed before the volume control, while in a modern wiring setup, the volume control is placed before the tone control. This causes a slightly different sound, as the tone control affects the signal before it hits the volume control. Depending on your preferences, one setup may sound better than the other.
How do I Install Push-Pull Pots in a Gibson SG?
Push-pull pots allow you to access a wider range of sounds from your Gibson SG without having to modify the wiring. Installation of push-pull pots requires some soldering, so if you’re not confident in your soldering skills it’s best to leave this job to a professional. To install a push-pull pot, you’ll need to remove the existing pot, solder the new push-pull pot into place, and connect the appropriate wires according to the wiring diagram. To save time and avoid frustration, make sure you have all the necessary tools and components before beginning the installation.
What are the Common Mods for a Gibson SG?
The most common mods for a Gibson SG include adding coil splitting, which allows you to access single-coil sounds from your humbucker pickups, and installing push-pull pots, which give you access to a variety of sounds with the flick of a switch. You can also add a kill switch, which mutes your signal for a staccato sound, and a toggle switch, which gives you an instant change from pickup to pickup. Other popular mods include upgrading the electronics, replacing the pickups, and installing a tremolo system.
How Can I Improve the Wiring in my Gibson SG?
If you’re looking for ways to improve the wiring in your Gibson SG, there are several options available. First, you can upgrade the electronics by replacing the pots, switches, and wiring with higher quality components. This will improve the sound and response of your guitar. You can also rewire the pickup selector switch to get more tonal variations out of your pickups, and you can install push-pull pots to open up even more tonal possibilities. Finally, you can add coil splitting to access single-coil sounds from your humbuckers.
Can I Add Coil Splitting to My Gibson SG?
Yes, you can add coil splitting to your Gibson SG. This will allow you to access single-coil sounds from your humbucker pickups. In order to do this, you’ll need to install a push-pull pot, which will require some soldering. If you’re not comfortable with soldering, it’s best to leave this job to a professional. Once the push-pull pot is installed, you’ll be able to access single-coil sounds simply by pulling up on the pot.
Are There Any Alternative Wiring Diagrams for a Gibson SG?
Yes, there are many alternative wiring diagrams available for the Gibson SG. If you’re looking for something more complex than the standard wiring setup, you can find wiring diagrams online that offer a variety of different sounds and options, such as coil tapping, phase switching, and series/parallel switching. With some patience and a bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect wiring diagram to suit your needs.
Wiring your Gibson SG can be a great way to customize the sound of your guitar. With the right information and a bit of patience, you can easily upgrade or customize the wiring of your Gibson SG. We hope this article has helped you understand the basics of wiring a Gibson SG and given you some ideas for new possibilities!

Wiring Harness Gibson Sg Arty S Custom Guitars

Wiring Harness Gibson Sg Arty S Custom Guitars

Seymour Duncan Les Paul Wiring Diagram

Les Paul Wiring Diagram Humbucker Soup

Wiring Kit Gibson Sg Complete With Schematic Diagram Pots Reverb

Gibson 61 Wiring Diagram Humbucker Soup

Les Paul Wiring Harness Throbak 50 S Style Kit For Electric Guitars
Common Electric Guitar Wiring Diagrams Amplified Parts
Gibson 2 Humbucker Wiring Diagram
Common Electric Guitar Wiring Diagrams Amplified Parts