Danelectro Allparts LP1 Lipstick Pickup Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Danelectro Allparts LP1 Lipstick Pickup. This pickup is designed to deliver the classic, bright, and articulate tone associated with original Danelectro instruments.

Safety Information

• Always disconnect power from your amplifier and guitar before performing any installation or wiring work.
• Use appropriate tools and exercise caution to avoid injury or damage to your instrument.
• If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified guitar technician.

Image: The Danelectro Allparts LP1 Lipstick Pickup, featuring its chrome-plated metal casing, brass mounting bracket, and two-conductor wiring.

Package Contents

• 1 x Danelectro Allparts LP1 Lipstick Pickup (Model PU-6425-010)
• Mounting screws (may vary, typically included with guitar hardware)

Installation Instructions

Installing the Danelectro Allparts LP1 Lipstick Pickup requires basic soldering skills and familiarity with guitar wiring. If you are not comfortable with these tasks, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.

Tools Required:

• Soldering iron and rosin-core solder
• Wire cutters/strippers
• Screwdrivers (Phillips and/or flathead, depending on guitar hardware)
• Multimeter (optional, for checking continuity and resistance)

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Prepare the Guitar: Disconnect the guitar from any amplifier. Remove the strings and the pickguard or control plate to access the existing pickup and wiring cavity.
2. Remove Old Pickup (if applicable): Carefully desolder the wires from the old pickup. Make a note of the connections (typically a 'hot' wire and a 'ground' wire). Remove any mounting screws and lift the old pickup out.
3. Mount the New Pickup: Position the Danelectro LP1 Lipstick Pickup in the desired cavity. Secure it using appropriate mounting screws. Ensure the pickup is seated correctly and does not interfere with string movement or other components.
4. Wire the Pickup: The LP1 pickup typically has two wires: a hot wire (often red or white) and a ground wire (often black or braided shield).
   • Connect the hot wire to the appropriate lug on your guitar's volume or tone potentiometer, or to a pickup selector switch, following your guitar's specific wiring diagram.
   • Connect the ground wire to the common ground point in your guitar's wiring (e.g., the back of a potentiometer casing, tremolo claw, or output jack ground).
5. Test Connections: Before reassembling, temporarily plug your guitar into an amplifier. With the amplifier volume low, gently tap the pickup with a small metal object (like a screwdriver tip) to confirm it is producing sound. Check for any unwanted hum, buzz, or signal loss.
6. Reassemble: Once all connections are confirmed to be working correctly, carefully reassemble the pickguard/control plate and restring your guitar.

Operation

The Danelectro LP1 Lipstick Pickup is a passive component. Its operation is integrated with your guitar's existing electronics, including volume, tone controls, and any pickup selector switches.

• Tone Characteristics: This pickup is renowned for its bright, clear, and articulate tone, often described as 'jangly' or 'twangy,' making it suitable for a variety of musical styles.
• Adjusting Pickup Height: Experiment with the pickup height to fine-tune the output and tonal response. Raising the pickup closer to the strings will generally increase output and bass response, while lowering it will reduce output and enhance clarity and sustain. Make adjustments in small increments and test frequently.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the chrome casing with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect the wiring connections for any signs of looseness, corrosion, or damage. Ensure all mounting screws are secure to prevent microphonics or unwanted vibrations.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check all soldered connections for cold joints, breaks, or shorts.
  • Ensure the hot and ground wires are connected correctly according to your guitar's wiring scheme.
  • Verify that your guitar's output jack, cable, and amplifier are functioning properly.
• Excessive Hum/Noise:
  • Confirm all ground connections are secure and properly soldered.
  • Check for proper shielding within the guitar's cavities.
  • Ensure no unshielded wires are touching other components or the guitar body.
• Weak Output:
  • Check pickup height; it may be too far from the strings. Adjust closer in small increments.
  • Inspect wiring for any shorts or incorrect connections that could be degrading the signal.

Specifications

Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official AllParts or Danelectro website, or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

AllParts Official Website

Danelectro Official Website