Alpha Premium Metric Full-Size Potentiometer (250K / 500K) – Audio Taper (A) / Linear Taper (B) | Split Shaft 18 splines | 8mm Bushing | For Guitar & Bass | made in Korea

Upgrade Your Tone & Control: The Premium Alpha Full-Size Potentiometer!
Improve your guitar or bass's electronics with this premium Alpha made in Korea full-size potentiometer, designed for superior tone and reliable performance. Featuring a robust brass bushing and perfect 8mm metric sizing, it's the ideal drop-in replacement or upgrade for most Asian-made guitars – no modifications needed! Choose between Audio Taper (A) for smooth volume swells and tone control, or Linear Taper (B) for consistent volume response, perfect for a wide range of pickups.
Key Features & Benefits:
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Premium Full-Size Construction: Built with a sturdy 24mm full-size body and durable brass bushing, providing a robust and long-lasting component that feels solid under your fingers.
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Direct Fit for Asian-Made Guitars (8mm Metric Bushing): Say goodbye to enlarging holes! The 8mm thread diameter ensures a perfect, snug fit in most imported electric guitars and basses (e.g., Squiers, Epiphones, Ibanez Asian made, etc.).
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Versatile Taper Options for Optimal Control:
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Audio Taper (A250K / A500K): Ideal for volume and tone controls, providing a smooth, natural sweep that mimics human hearing. Recommended for single coils (250K) and humbuckers (500K).
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Linear Taper (B250K / B500K): Best suited for volume controls where a consistent, even response from minimum to maximum is desired.
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Standard Length for Wide Compatibility: With a 9.5mm (⅜”) thread length, this pot is a versatile choice, fitting comfortably through pickguards, control plates, and even for direct-to-wood top mounting on thicker guitar bodies. Includes necessary nuts and washers.
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Reliable Alpha Quality: Alpha is a globally trusted brand, widely used in Asian-made instruments, known for providing consistent performance and excellent value in guitar electronics.
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Durable Split Shaft Design: Features a knurled (split) shaft with 18 splines for easy, secure installation of most standard control knobs.
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Standard Friction Rotation: Offers smooth, consistent turning feel, allowing for easy and repeatable adjustments during play.
Specifications:
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Brand: Alpha made in Korea
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Body Size: Full-size 24mm diameter
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Bushing Material: Brass
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Resistance Values & Tapers Available:
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A250kΩ (Audio Taper) – Recommended for single coils Tone control
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A500kΩ (Audio Taper) – Recommended for humbuckers Tone control
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B250kΩ (Linear Taper) – Recommended for single coils Volume control
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B500kΩ (Linear Taper) – Recommended for single coils Volume control
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Bushing Thread Diameter: Metric 8mm (0.315 inches)
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Bushing Thread Length: 9.5mm (⅜” 0.374 inches) – Standard length
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Shaft Type: Split / Knurled coarse (18 splines)
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Torque: Standard friction rotation
What’s in the Box:
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1x Alpha Potentiometer (Selected Value & Taper)
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2x Hex Nuts for mounting
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1x Washer for mounting
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Q: What is the difference between Audio Taper (A) and Linear Taper (B)?
A: Linear Taper (B) pots increase resistance evenly across the rotation, making them ideal for volume controls where a consistent sweep is preferred. Audio Taper (A) pots follow a logarithmic curve, better matching how our ears perceive changes in tone—making them well-suited for tone controls.
That said, Audio Taper (A) can also be used for volume if you plan to add a treble bleed circuit (a capacitor and resistor in parallel), which helps retain clarity when turning the volume down.
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Q: Should I choose 250k or 500k for my guitar?
A: Generally, 250kΩ pots are used with single-coil pickups (e.g., Stratocasters, Telecasters) to prevent the sound from becoming too bright. 500kΩ pots are typically used with humbuckers to allow more high frequencies through, making them sound brighter and more articulate. -
Q: Will this fit my Fender/Squier/Epiphone/Ibanez guitar?
A: With its 8mm metric bushing, it's designed to fit most Asian-made guitars (like many Squier, Epiphone, Ibanez, etc., models) without needing to enlarge the existing holes. Most USA-made guitars use larger imperial-sized pots (9.5mm / ⅜" holes). -
Q: Is "Standard Length" bushing long enough for a Les Paul-style guitar?
A: The 9.5mm (⅜") thread length is considered "standard" and is generally sufficient for most guitars with pickguards or thinner tops. For thicker carved tops (like Gibson USA Les Pauls), long-shaft pots (often 18mm or 19mm) might be required. This standard length is ideal for direct mounting on wood tops or pickguards. -
Q: Do these come with a knob?
A: No, this listing is for the potentiometer only. Knobs are sold separately, allowing you to choose your preferred style. This split-shaft pot is compatible with most standard knurled knobs. -
Q: Will these potentiometers show the same value when tested with a multitester? A: Yes, all potentiometers are tested for accuracy and should show very similar resistance values when measured with a multitester. However, slight tolerances are normal (typically ±20%), which is standard across the industry for passive components like pots.
Ideal For:
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Guitar & Bass Upgrades: Replace stock potentiometers for improved reliability and feel.
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DIY Guitar Builds: Essential components for custom wiring harnesses.
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Repair Technicians: Reliable replacement parts for Asian-made instruments.
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Tone Tweakers: Experiment with different taper types and values to fine-tune your sound.
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Musicians on a Budget: Get quality components without the premium price tag.