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When wax potting doesn't fix a squealing pickup, what's left?

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  • When wax potting doesn't fix a squealing pickup, what's left?

    Several months ago, I had a local luthier try potting the DiMarzio Steve's Special in my snakeskin Dinky, as it was squealing like crazy. This didn't help at all, which leaves me wondering what more I can do before I replace the pickup. The only thing that I hadn't considered before was how the bridge pickup is mounted in this guitar, which has a Tele-style hardtail bridge. Instead of a pickup ring, the bridge holds the pickup down, as shown:



    I don't have squealing issues with other pickups (EMG 81, Invader, JB) using this same bridge type, but I really like the tone of the Steve's Special. Any other suggestions before I buy a new pickup?
    sigpic

  • #2
    Does it squeal when you hold it? Put two fingers on the bass side of the pup and press. I like the Steve's Special too. Don't have a squealing problem with it.
    Henrik
    AUDIOZONE.DK - a guitar site for the Jackson and Charvel fan

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    • #3
      Maybe the guy didn't pot it right. Ask John (Jgcable) if he can repot it for you.
      I feel my soul go cold... only the dead are smiling.

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      • #4
        Sounds like it wasn't potted correctly. There is actually an art to it.
        The key is to add beeswax to the mixture.

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        • #5
          John potted one of my pickups and it works like a champ now.

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          • #6
            This guy is a definite pro, so I'm fairly certain of his abilities...and he does use beeswax. He explained to me what he'd be doing, but also said that potting isn't a guaranteed fix. This was a pickup that I bought used, and this same luthier is the one that installed it for me after I got the body back from GMW. Problem is, I absolutely could not make it squeal on the amp in his shop, or at home when I'm practicing, even though I'm playing through my live rig...although at apartment-friendly volumes.

            The volume seems to be the key, but standing further away from the amp/cab doesn't have any obvious effect.
            sigpic

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