Control pot values

[rob_u]

I'm trying to figure out what value push/pull pot to use in my 2003 360-12. The schematics on the RIC site (which were revised on 01/24/07) indicate that the volume/tone pots are 330k, and the mixer pot is 500k. When I check the value with a meter, I get around 214k(ish) for all five (which would be consistent with low tolerance pots that were rated at 250K). Did RIC change the value of these pots since 2003 (the only value sold at the Ric boutique is 330k)? If I trust the schematic I'm in-between the 250k and 500k Push/pulls that are available. If I trust my meter (and measuring technique) I'll do well to use a 250k (I want to make the .0047 cap switchable). Can anybody clear up this confusion?

Thanks

[jps]

RIC did change the pot values, you are correct that yours has 250K pots.

[rob_u]

Thanks for your reply Jeffrey, I'll pick up a 250k push/pull for my mod! Do you have any idea why RIC changed the value? Was it to make the sound brighter?

Rob

[jps]

I have no idea why the change, but that coould be plausible.

[paologregorio]

What's the deal with 500k pots? Why are they purported by so many to have the ultimate tone mojo? Someone enlighten me. I have a 500k master volume in my Silverjet, and it feels a lot more solid and smooth to turn, and it sounds great, but why?

[rob_u]

The feel and smoothness has nothing to do with the 500k aspect, that's probably just the quality of the particular pot. All volume/tone pots attenuate a little of the high end frequencies - 250k pots more so than 500k. 250k pots are generally used for single coils (traditionally in Fenders) because they are naturally bright, and 500k pots are used with humbuckers (traditionally Gibsons) because the out of phase coils are less bright than single coils and the 500k preserves more of the high end. I tried 500k's in my Stratocaster, and found it too bright, so I went back to 250k. Some people even use 1Mg pots but that seems like it would be able to break glass, but some people like that.

Rob

[johnallg]

It has to do with the pot value in conjunction with the impedance of the pup coil and the way it loads the coil. A larger value pot is a lighter load on the lower impedance of the coil and thus doesn't roll of the frequencies as much.