Audio vs. Linear (log) taper pots.....

[Ozz666]

I've been reading up on the difference, obviously the linear pots have a 1:1 relationship of output to % rotation turned and audio pots are logrithmic (bell curve). So what pots to use for what? When would I want to use a Linear and when would I want an audio? I think all CTS pots are audio taper...is that the standard for Vol pots??

- Joel

[jgcable]

Re: Audio vs. Linear (log) taper pots.....

Yes. Audio is the standard.

[Ace]

Re: Audio vs. Linear (log) taper pots.....

Audio taper is the standard for everything on your guitar. Linear taper is used for stuff like dimming switches for lamps.

[YetAnotherOne]

Re: Audio vs. Linear (log) taper pots.....

You'll always want to use audio taper pots for volume controls. Your ears perceive relative volume on a logarithmic scale so for a volume pot to "work well" it'll need to be an audio taper / logarithmic pot.

Tone controls might be a different matter. What you're doing with a passive tone control (normally) is shifting the cutoff frequency of the lowpass filter formed by the circuit. Linear pots might be a better choice there but it'll depend on your personal taste and how you designed the circuit.

[jtr]

Re: Audio vs. Linear (log) taper pots.....

I'm not sure but I think EMG 25K pots are linear and I for one prefer them that way. Nice smooth volume swells And I actually use them volume for different tones.

[Ozz666]

Re: Audio vs. Linear (log) taper pots.....

Thanks guys! I'm always learning new stuff here from the senior (as in senior/junior...not old) guitarists! You guys know your stuff

[toejam]

Re: Audio vs. Linear (log) taper pots.....

Carvin does it the opposite way... linear for volume, audio for tone. Why, I don't know.