The Truth Behind Tone Capacitors

I have people asking me whether is it worth it to get "boutique" capacitors for their guitars... In reality, they're mostly hype. Caps like "bumblebees" and "tropical fish" used decades ago weren't even considered all that great during their time. Even the random ones that I bought to try out from Sim Lim Tower were more or less the same tonal variety. And much much cheaper. Yes, audio purists will hate me for what I just said. But I say put them through an A-B blind test and prove me wrong.

If one is to be finicky about tone, I'd suggest something reliable such as Sprague orange drop and Mallory caps. The real deal is actually in the value of the capacitors and less on the type. Generally,0.022uf (microfarad) is usually used for humbuckers while 0.047uf are reserved for singlecoils. Personally I'd reccommend Mallory capacitors for stratocaster and similar singlecoil-equipped guitars for that slightly rounded "glassy" tone that some people love.

But bear a reminder. "Tone" is relative. Some may like a certain sound, while others may go for something else. If it sounds good to you, then your search has ended. And it also depends greatly on other hardware as well, more notably the pickups, cable, and amp. And not forgetting how your cap is wired up. There is no such thing as a mystical mojo-soaked super capacitor out there.

Rates for wiring capacitors:
Drop-in replacements (wiring configured exactly as the existing capacitor) - $10
Special Wiring upgrade options!  *subject to compatibility*
(please see note on Modern and Vintage Wiring)