nashville tele wiring schematic

Nashville Tele Wiring: Adding a Middle Pickup to Your Telecaster

The Nashville Tele wiring configuration modifies a standard Telecaster by adding a Stratocaster-style middle pickup. This unlocks a wider range of tones, effectively giving you Strat-like versatility alongside classic Tele twang. It usually involves a 5-way switch to access combinations like bridge+middle and neck+middle.

Why Choose Nashville Tele Wiring?

The primary appeal of the Nashville Tele wiring lies in its expanded tonal palette. A standard Telecaster offers three main sounds: bridge, neck, and both pickups in parallel. By incorporating a middle pickup and a 5-way switch, you gain access to the following:

• Bridge pickup alone (standard Tele)
• Bridge and middle pickups in parallel (Strat quack)
• Middle pickup alone (Strat middle)
• Neck and middle pickups in parallel (Strat neck/middle)
• Neck pickup alone (standard Tele)

This versatility makes it a popular choice for players who want to cover a wider range of musical styles without switching guitars.

Understanding the Wiring Schematic

While there isn’t a single, universally accepted Nashville Tele wiring diagram, they all share common elements. Most involve a 5-way switch, typically a standard Strat-style switch. The switch is wired to select the desired pickup combination. You can find many variations online, some with additional modifications like tone control assignments or series wiring options. Always double-check the specific schematic you’re using against your components and desired outcome.

Here’s a simplified overview:

1. Pickups: You’ll need a Telecaster bridge pickup, a Telecaster neck pickup, and a Stratocaster middle pickup.
2. 5-way Switch: This replaces the standard 3-way Telecaster switch.
3. Pots: Typically, a volume pot and a tone pot are used. Some variations use two tone pots, one for the neck and middle pickups, and one for the bridge.
4. Wiring: Each pickup is wired to the 5-way switch, which then connects to the volume and tone pots. The output jack connects to the volume pot.

Careful soldering and insulation are crucial for a clean and functional wiring job. Consider using shielded wire to minimize noise.

Finding Reliable Schematics

Numerous resources offer Nashville Tele wiring diagrams. Online forums dedicated to guitar modification are excellent sources, as are websites that specialize in guitar electronics. When selecting a schematic, make sure it matches your desired configuration (e.g., tone control assignments) and that it’s easy to understand. Always check if it is coming from reputable sites and other users’ experience. For detailed information on guitar pickups and wiring concepts, you might want to learn more about guitar pickups on Wikipedia.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use standard Telecaster pickups for a Nashville Tele setup?

You can use a standard Telecaster bridge and neck pickup. The middle pickup is generally a Stratocaster pickup, because of the different form factor and sound.

2. Does Nashville Tele wiring change the Telecaster’s original sound?

It expands upon it. The standard Telecaster sounds are still available, but you gain access to additional Strat-like tones.

3. Is Nashville Tele wiring difficult to install?

It requires some soldering skill and a good understanding of wiring diagrams. If you’re not comfortable, it’s best to have a professional install it.

4. What tools do I need for Nashville Tele wiring?

You’ll need a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters, wire strippers, a multimeter (optional but helpful), and a wiring diagram.

5. Will Nashville Tele wiring work with any Telecaster?

It should work with most Telecasters, but you might need to route the body to accommodate the middle pickup, if it doesn’t have a pre-routed cavity.

Summary

The Nashville Tele wiring configuration adds a Stratocaster-style middle pickup to a Telecaster, significantly expanding its tonal versatility. By using a 5-way switch, players can access classic Tele sounds along with Strat-like combinations, making it a popular modification for those seeking a wider range of tones from a single guitar. Be sure to carefully select the right schematic and consider professional installation if you’re not experienced with soldering and guitar wiring.