The Gilmour Switch Mod: Tonal Versatility On Tap

The Gilmour Switch mod is a popular guitar modification named after Pink Floyd's guitarist David Gilmour. It allows you to have greater versatility in tone shaping by expanding the pickup combinations available on a Fender Stratocaster.

Traditionally, a Stratocaster provides five pickup configurations; however, by incorporating the Gilmour switch, typically achieved through the installation of a toggle switch, you can access seven unique combinations.

This enhancement enables you to activate the neck pickup with the flip of a switch, regardless of the position of the traditional five-way selector, offering you the option to blend the neck pickup with the middle and bridge pickups separately, or even all three simultaneously.

The modification itself is not just for fans of Gilmour’s work, but for any guitar player seeking to explore the tonal possibilities of their instrument. By adding the Gilmour switch, you gain access to the much-desired 'neck and bridge' combination, as well as the full spectrum 'all pickups' setting; sounds that are not typically available on a Stratocaster.

Upgrading your guitar with this feature enhances its flexibility, making it suitable for a wider range of musical styles and expressions. This simple yet effective mod equips you with the tools to craft your own distinct sound, much like the legendary artist who inspired it.

Related: 7 Guitar Mods with a Push Pull Pot & More...

Historical Context

In the realm of electric guitars, the Gilmour Switch has a notable legacy, deeply connected to the innovative spirit of one of rock's iconic guitarists, David Gilmour, and his famed Black Strat.

David Gilmour's Influence

David Gilmour, the renowned guitarist of Pink Floyd, was not only known for his expressive solos and immersive soundscapes but also for his willingness to innovate with guitar technology.

The Black Strat, Gilmour’s primary guitar from 1970 onwards, became synonymous with his sound. It's a heavily customized Fender Stratocaster, integral to the creation of Pink Floyd’s unique musical chapters.

Evolution of the Gilmour Switch

The Gilmour Switch is a modification inspired by the custom wiring of Gilmour's Black Strat. It introduces a mini toggle switch allowing the neck pickup to be activated alongside the middle and bridge pickups.

This addition expanded the tonal capabilities of the Stratocaster, offering players seven possible pickup combinations as opposed to the traditional five. Through crafty engineering, the modification aims to emulate the tonal qualities Gilmour achieved, specifically those illustrious sounds heard on classic Pink Floyd tracks.

Gilmour Mod Overview

Related: 10 More Guitar Mods To Try

Definition and Function

The Gilmour switch, named after Pink Floyd's iconic guitarist David Gilmour, introduces versatile tones to your Stratocaster. By adding a mini SPDT switch, you gain the ability to activate the neck pickup regardless of the standard 5-way switch position.

Benefits of the Gilmour Switch

Embedding the Gilmour switch into your Stratocaster enriches your instrument with additional tonal options. You'll enjoy the distinctive combination of the neck and bridge pickups, along with the full, rich sound of all three pickups simultaneously.

7-Way Switching Explained

Traditional Stratocasters come with a 5-way pickup selector. The Gilmour mod, or 7-way switch, maintains these five positions but adds two more:

• Neck + Bridge: Achieve a tone similar to the "quack" of a Telecaster.
• All Three Pickups: For a fuller, more powerful sound output.

This mod is a straightforward enhancement that leaves the original Strat wiring intact while significantly broadening the instrument's expressiveness.

Guitar Compatibility

When you're looking to add the Gilmour Switch to your guitar setup, understanding compatibility with your instrument is essential. This modification is primarily designed for Stratocaster® models, but with some adjustments, it can be applied to other guitar models as well.

Stratocaster® Models

The Gilmour Switch is directly compatible with most Fender® Stratocaster® models. Whether you own a standard right-hand guitar or a left-handed model, the installation process remains largely the same. For those who play on a Squier® Strat®, the Gilmour mod is applicable, but you may need to make minor adjustments to ensure a proper fit.

Other Guitar Models

While the mod is synonymous with Stratocasters, it's possible to apply this switch to other guitar models; however, this generally requires additional modifications. For instance, a Telecaster might accommodate the switch with significant alterations, but it's a less common practice due to the distinct electronics layout. The mod is primarily recommended for right-hand guitar configurations, and while theoretically possible on other models, it's imperative to consult with a professional to guarantee compatibility.

Keep in mind that the mod is designed with the Stratocaster's unique pickguard and electronic setup in mind. This specificity ensures optimal sound and function when installed correctly.

Gilmour Mod Installation

Incorporating the Gilmour switch into your Stratocaster broadens your tonal range without altering the classic 5-way pickup selector functionality. Here's what you need to know to add this nifty modification to your guitar

Tools Required

• Soldering iron: Essential for attaching the mini toggle switch.
• Wire cutter/stripper: For cutting and preparing wires.
• Screwdriver: For installing the switch onto the pickguard.
• Electrical solder: To create secure electrical connections.
• A SPDT toggle switch: The centerpiece of the Gilmour mod. One of our Iron Age LED toggle switches can work as well.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Access the electronics: Open the back panel or pickguard to reveal your Strat's wiring.
2. Locate the hot wire: Find the neck pickup's hot wire, which you will be rerouting.
3. Install the mini toggle switch: Drill a hole between the volume and tone controls if one isn't already present and secure the mini toggle switch.
4. Connect the hot wire to the switch: Solder the hot wire to one of the outer lugs of the mini SPDT switch.
5. Ground the mini toggle switch: Connect a wire from the middle lug of the switch to the ground circuit on the volume pot.
6. Test your work: Before reassembling, plug in your Strat to ensure the mini toggle switch engages the neck pickup correctly.

Solder-less Install Options

For those who prefer not to solder:

• Pre-wired kits: These kits come with solder-less connectors that make the process super easy to install.
• Plug and Play solutions: Look for assemblies with modular connectors that easily attach to your existing pickup wires and pots.
• Option 1
• Option 2

Endeavor to use proper safety measures when handling a soldering iron and follow all manufacturer instructions when dealing with solder-less options.

Tone & Sound Customization

Pickup Combinations

With the Gilmour modification switch, you gain access to a 7-way switching capacity that enables additional pickup configurations. Typically, a Stratocaster provides five standard pickup settings, but by adding a mini switch or push/pull pot, you can activate both the neck and bridge pickups simultaneously or add the neck pickup to any other combination. This addition can yield a bell-like Strat® tone or emulate the middle position of a Telecaster, expanding your sonic possibilities.

• Standard 5-Way Switching:

  1. Bridge Pickup
  2. Bridge + Middle Pickups
  3. Middle Pickup
  4. Middle + Neck Pickups
  5. Neck Pickup

• With 7-Way Switching (Gilmour mod):

• 6. Neck + Bridge Pickups

• 7. All Three Pickups Together

Capacitor Choices

Capacitors play a pivotal role in shaping the tone of your guitar by affecting the amount of high frequency rolled off when using your tone controls.

Different values and types of capacitors can produce varying levels of warmth and clarity. It's crucial to choose capacitors that complement the added versatility of the Gilmour switch.

Standard values like 0.022µF are common, but you might opt for 0.047µF or higher for a smoother and warmer tone or lower values like 0.010µF for brighter tones.

Practical Tips

When modifying your guitar with the Gilmour Switch, it's essential to perform accurate modifications on the pickguard and ensure proper replacements of knobs and switches for optimal performance.

Pickguard Modifications

To accommodate the mini toggle switch for the Gilmour mod, you'll need to modify your pickguard.

If your Stratocaster's pickguard doesn't already have space for additional switches, you'll need to precisely cut a new hole. The location is typically between the volume and tone controls.

Ensure that the opening is large enough for the switch to fit snugly but not so large as to compromise the pickguard’s integrity. Additionally, consider counter-sinking the switch to keep it out of the way of your playing.

Knob and Switch Replacements

When replacing knobs, especially with US spec 24 spline knobs, you may have to widen control holes to 10mm to fit new pots if they are larger than your existing ones.

This process requires careful drilling to avoid cracking the pickguard. Once the knobs are replaced, ensure they turn smoothly without wobbling.

As for the mini toggle switch, choose a high-quality toggle switch to endure the regular toggling. When replacing knobs, it's a good idea to opt for those that match the new switch in terms of style and color to maintain a cohesive aesthetic.

Conclusion

Implementing the Gilmour switch into your Fender Stratocaster can unlock additional sonic possibilities. By adding the 7-way switching mod, inspired by David Gilmour's iconic setup, you gain access to the neck and bridge pickups simultaneously or all three pickups at once. These configurations add a rich layer to your sound, reminiscent of a Telecaster's middle position, which traditionally isn't available on a Stratocaster.

Ensuring that the modification is performed correctly is crucial. Carefully solder the new wiring and install the mini switch without altering the classic look of your Strat. This modification can be a subtle yet effective way to expand your guitar's tonal palette.

Remember, modifications such as the Gilmour wiring mod should be approached with a clear understanding of your guitar's wiring and should be reversible to retain the instrument's value. For those comfortable with DIY projects, this can be an enjoyable afternoon task. However, if you are less experienced, seeking professional help is advised to maintain the integrity of your guitar.

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