Using header pins in builds

[jnash85]

This is probably a stupid question, but the OCD side of me needs an answer. I just finished populating the board for a Zenith drive. Everything was going find until it came time to wire the pots to the board. I didn't like the connection I got on one of the wires and my attempt at fixing it just made the problem worse. Would there be any noticeable difference in tone in using a single pin header to make those connections? This is what I am talking about:

http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/87220-1/A26540-ND/295320

I know the guys at AMB.org use these types of connections for their amps, and those are for audiophile devices.

[Kesh]

No difference in tone, if you are comparing a good connection in both cases. The main issue is probably ease of soldering and mechanical robustness.

I don't like wiring up pots at all, so I stick the pots to the board with double sided foam sticky tape, and use stripped single core to connect the lugs to the copper tracks.

[smallbearelec]

I have started using Molex "SPOX" 2.5 mm plugs and headers for this:

http://www.smallbearelec.com/servlet/Categories?category=Plugs%2C+Jacks+and+Fittings%3AMolex+Headers+and+Assemblies

and I'm happy:

https://www.smallbearelec.com/Projects/OhMyDarling/OhMyDarling.htm

The barrier to doing it was always crimping the pins to the wires. I have taken care of that, hope it works for you.

Regards, and Happy Construction in 2013
SD

[jnash85]

Thanks for the replies. I'll check those out at small bear. Do they make any in that style for single pins?

[smallbearelec]

Do they make any in that style for single pins?

To use those single-pin header for connecting pots, you would need three. To use the Molex method, solder a three-pin female header to your board and wire the board connections for the pot to that. Make a three-pin plug with your choice of colrs and wire that to the pot. Plug in the pot.