SD '59 question

[SinNombre]

I am considering putting a '59 bridge in the bridge of my Dot to complement the P-90 in the neck. I have never owned uncovered pickups before and I have heard they can expose the winding to dirt etc. I can't tell from photos on the internet if the SD uncovered HBs have a protective wrap around the winding as Gibson's appear to. Can anyone explain how they come?

Also, do they come with two separate wires or with a "coaxial" metal cover over a center wire that has to be peeled back in order to solder it? Thanks.

 

[lemonman]

Re: SD '59 question

They have tape around the bobbins, it's fine to run them uncovered if you prefer. The regular models are two conductor, meaning the braided coax wire. They are readily available as four conductor for about $5 more.

 

[SinNombre]

Re: SD '59 question

Thanks. Any tips on separating and soldering the braided wire?

 

[idsnowdog]

Re: SD '59 question

I wouldn't worry much about the pickups being uncovered. I use a dental pick or a nut pick to unravel the braid. In order to get a good solder joint make sure you use a little bit of flux, otherwise the solder won't flow well and make a good joint.

 

[hamerfan]

Re: SD '59 question

Thanks. Any tips on separating and soldering the braided wire?

Here you can see how Seymour Duncan himself does it:

http://www.seymourduncan.com/support/choosing-installing/installing-pick/