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Pickup wire

Started by Ben Bove, March 25, 2013, 11:22:44 AM

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Ben Bove

I went to my local electronics store, and to my amazement they didn't carry a non-insulated braided wire for joining pickups.

Is there a generic source online for a spool of wire for connecting pickups?  Thought this would have been a common thing.  Thanks
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David Aubke

I've searched online but have never been able to find bulk uninsulated wire. I strip the insulation off standard hookup wire then chuck one end into a drill to give it a tighter twist.
Dave Aubke
Shadetree Keys

sean


sean



Looks like a search for "ground strap" gets acceptable hits too.

David Aubke

Why's it always gotta be flat though? Doesn't look right.

The original was twisted, not braided. If appearance isn't an issue, then just strip the ends off insulated wire. If appearance is important, it should be round and twisted.
Dave Aubke
Shadetree Keys

Ben Bove

Yeah the guy at the electronics shop used a term... "spun" or something that which implied twisted wire versus flatened.  The braided would work but would prefer a more original look.  Thanks for the suggestions, and if anyone finds anything else
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Vintage Music Gear

http://www.retrorentals.net
(818) 806-9606
info@retrorentals.net

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IG: @RetroRentalsNet

Arbor

I hope it's not inappropriate to resurrect this thread.

Can anyone tell me what gauge wire to use between pickups?

I'm wondering if something like this would work: https://www.mylampparts.com/products/sl19851-ft

I'm refurbishing a 73 Stage Mk II from 1980, if that matters.

Thanks!

sean



Since 18 Guage braided wire is the only size available, I think that is what you should use.  I think it will look a little beefier than the original, but I can't find anything smaller.

Does anyone else know a source for the braided wire that is tinned, not flattened, and made with dainty individual strands.  All the braided wire I have seen recently is made of much thicker and fewer individual strands.

Where can we buy the right stuff in small quantities?

Sean

Arbor

I found another, cheaper source of a similar 18 ga tinned copper that appears to be twisted, not braided. $0.15 / foot.

https://grandbrass.com/18-1-16-str-bare-silver-ground-wire/

I just bought 100 ft, and will report back on how well it works.