1959 EB-2 Capacitor Question...

[Grog]

I have a 1959 EB-2 one of the early ones with a single coil pickup. Through the "F" hole, I notice years ago that it has two sprague capactors twisted together, soldered to the tone control. One of the wires is broken off of one of the caps, possibly because they were twisted together too tight. I always wondered how much difference it might make if I tried to repair this. Being my oldest bass, I've always figured I'd better leave well enough alone. It sounds good as is, how much better would it sound with both capacitors? 

[exiledarchangel]

Maybe they solder two caps in parallel to get a special value (if you solder caps in parallel you add their capacities).
Since there is only one of the wires broken, that means that only one of the two caps is functioning.
With only one cap functioning you get less capacitance, and less terble cut when your tone control is closed.

I'd say, if this isn't bothering you, leave it. Those basses haven't much treble to roll off anyway!

[doombass]

I'd say, if this isn't bothering you, leave it. Those basses haven't much treble to roll off anyway!

Exactly. Adding the other one will move the roll off point down in frequensy. I would'nt bother.

[Dave W]

I agree. The 1960 EB-2 schematic shows a capacitor value of .04 uF. Assuming that's what they were using in 1959, you now have .02 uF which means the rolloff point is giving you a little more high end. I wouldn't change a thing if you're satisfied with the tone.

[Grog]

Thanks for the info! I've also wondered if a previous owner may have cut the wire to change the sound a bit... A fifty year old bass is bound to have a couple stories to tell.