Convert Squier Mustang to P90s Pickups

Are you a fan of the Squier Mustang but feel that its stock pickups don’t quite deliver the tone you’re looking for? Converting a Squier Mustang to P90s pickups is an excellent way to enhance your guitar's sound, giving it a unique character and a rich, warm tone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of P90 pickups, the steps involved in the conversion process, and tips for achieving the best results. Whether you're an experienced guitarist or a beginner looking to upgrade your instrument, this article will provide you with all the information you need to successfully convert your Squier Mustang to P90s pickups.

Understanding P90 Pickups

P90 pickups are a type of single-coil pickup that offer a distinct sound profile, characterized by a thicker, warmer tone compared to traditional single-coils. Originating in the 1940s, P90s have been a favorite among musicians across various genres, from blues to rock and jazz. Their unique tonal qualities come from the wider coil and higher output, providing a punchy sound that’s both bright and full-bodied.

Advantages of P90 Pickups

Rich Tone: P90s are known for their warm and full sound, which can add depth to your guitar's tone.
Versatility: They perform well across a range of musical styles, making them suitable for various genres.
Dynamic Response: P90s are highly responsive to playing dynamics, allowing for expressive playing.
Unique Character: The sound of P90s is distinct from humbuckers and traditional single-coils, giving your guitar a unique voice.

Why Convert Your Squier Mustang?

The Squier Mustang is a popular choice for many guitarists due to its affordability, lightweight design, and comfortable playability. However, the stock pickups may not satisfy everyone’s tonal preferences. Converting to P90s can significantly enhance the sonic capabilities of your Mustang, providing a richer and more dynamic sound that can inspire creativity and improve your overall playing experience.

Stock Pickups vs. P90s

While the stock pickups on a Squier Mustang are decent for practice and casual playing, they often lack the warmth and character that P90s can provide. The conversion process allows you to retain the beloved Mustang body shape while upgrading the electronics to suit your tonal needs. If you’re looking for a thicker, more pronounced sound that can handle both clean and overdriven tones, P90s are the way to go.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before diving into the conversion process, gather the following tools and materials:

New P90 pickups (make sure they fit your Squier Mustang)
Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)
Wire cutters/strippers
Soldering iron and solder
Multimeter (optional, for testing pickups)
Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
Protective cover (for the guitar body)
Wood screws (if necessary for mounting pickups)

Step-by-Step Guide to Conversion

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by setting up a clean, well-lit workspace. Lay down a protective cover on your table to avoid scratches or damage to your guitar. Ensure that you have all your tools and materials within reach.

Step 2: Remove the Strings

Start by carefully removing the strings from your Squier Mustang. Loosen each string and gently unwind it from the tuning pegs. Once the strings are removed, you can proceed to the next steps without the tension of the strings getting in the way.

Step 3: Remove the Pickguard

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws holding the pickguard in place. Gently lift the pickguard away from the body of the guitar, taking care not to damage any wires connected to the pickups.

Step 4: Disconnect the Stock Pickups

Identify the stock pickups and their wiring. Use a soldering iron to desolder the connections between the pickups and the wiring harness. Be sure to note where each wire connects, as you'll need to replicate this with the new P90 pickups.

Step 5: Install the P90 Pickups

Once the stock pickups are removed, position your new P90 pickups in the same locations. Depending on the specific model of P90s you’ve purchased, you may need to make adjustments to the mounting holes. Use wood screws to secure the pickups in place, ensuring they are snug but not overly tight.

Step 6: Wiring the P90 Pickups

Carefully wire the P90 pickups according to the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer. Generally, this will involve connecting the hot wire (typically colored) to the corresponding terminal on the switch and the ground wire (usually black or bare) to the back of the volume pot or another grounding point. Use solder to secure the connections, and make sure to insulate any exposed wires with electrical tape.

Step 7: Reattach the Pickguard

Once the pickups are wired, carefully place the pickguard back onto the guitar body. Secure it in place with the screws you removed earlier. Ensure that the wires are neatly tucked away and not pinched under the pickguard.

Step 8: Restring Your Guitar

With the pickguard reattached, it’s time to restring your Squier Mustang. Choose the gauge of strings that suits your playing style and preferences. Once the strings are in place, tune your guitar to your desired pitch.

Step 9: Test the Pickups

Plug your guitar into an amplifier and test the new P90 pickups. Play various chords and notes to hear how they respond. Take note of any adjustments you may need to make, such as pickup height or tone settings on your amplifier.

Step 10: Fine-Tuning

After testing, you may want to adjust the height of the pickups to fine-tune their output. P90 pickups generally perform best when they are set at a height that allows them to capture the full resonance of the strings without being too close, which can cause unwanted distortion.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Issue 1: No Sound

If you experience no sound after installation, double-check all your connections. Ensure that the wires are properly soldered and that there are no loose connections. You may also want to test the pickup with a multimeter to ensure it has continuity.

Issue 2: Weak Output

A weak output could be due to the pickup height being too low. Adjust the height of the pickups to ensure they are closer to the strings. If the problem persists, check your wiring connections again.

Issue 3: Hum or Buzzing

P90 pickups are known to pick up interference from electrical sources, which can result in humming or buzzing. Ensure that your guitar is properly grounded and consider using a noise gate or hum-canceling device if necessary.

Maintaining Your P90 Pickups

Once you’ve successfully converted your Squier Mustang to P90s, it’s essential to maintain them for optimal performance. Here are some tips for keeping your pickups in top condition:

Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your pickups and strings after each use to remove dirt and sweat.
Check Wiring: Periodically inspect the wiring for any signs of wear or damage.
Pickup Height Adjustment: Adjust the height of your pickups as needed to maintain optimal output and tone.
Store Properly: When not in use, store your guitar in a case to protect it from dust and humidity.

Conclusion

Converting your Squier Mustang to P90s pickups is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance your guitar's tone and playability. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you can achieve a professional-grade sound that will inspire your playing. Whether you’re rocking out on stage or jamming in your living room, the unique character of P90 pickups will bring your music to life. Ready to take the plunge? Gather your materials and start your conversion today!

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