Linear vs. Audio Taper pots

[NeilStryker]

Can someone please explain the difference between Linear and Audio taper pots?

Sorry if there is a thread explaining this already, I couldn't find it. .  Thanks!

 

[TroubledTreble]

The resistance value of a linear taper pot goes from zero to some value in a straight line fashion. If you were to plot it, it would be a ramp.

For an audio taper the resistance value is more gradual. If you were to plot the taper it would appear as a curve with a belly in it. This is the taper you need to use for guitar controls. It is easier to manage and sounds better to the human ear. Audio taper pots are set up logorithmicly just as the decible scale is.

 

[taez555]

I put a linear taper on my tone control.  It sucks.  Basically as you turn the knob nothing happens until the very last bit and the tone kick in 100%.    It almost more of an on/off switch than a pot.    Stick with the audio taper, it actually allows you to sweep through the frequency, or if you're using it as a volume to gradually ease off the volume.

erik

 

[NeilStryker]

okay cool, that makes sense now.  audio tapers it is then.  thanks for the info Taez and Troubled.  ccasion14: