In this guide, we’ll show you how to replace the two potentiometers on your Inspire smart guitar.

The Inspire uses two potentiometers with different sizes and installation methods. Before starting, take a photo of the original wiring layout and potentiometer positions. This will help you restore each component correctly during reassembly.

The small potentiometer has a different structure from the large potentiometer, so take care when removing and installing it.

Unplug the Connectors

Flip the pickguard over and locate the three connectors attached to the back of the small potentiometer.

Carefully disconnect all three connectors. Avoid pulling directly on the wires to prevent damage.

Mark the Wires

Mark the connectors or take a clear reference photo of their original positions before continuing.

This will make reinstallation easier and help ensure each connector returns to the correct location.

Remove the Knob

Use a hex key to loosen the set screw on the side of the knob.

Once loosened, remove the knob from the potentiometer shaft.

Loosen the Nut

After removing the knob, use a suitable socket wrench to loosen the hex nut securing the potentiometer.

Once the nut is removed, take the small potentiometer out of the pickguard.

Install the replacement potentiometer by reversing the removal process. Secure the nut, reinstall the knob, and reconnect the three connectors.

The large potentiometer uses a different mounting structure. Follow the steps below to remove and replace it.

Unplug the Connector

Locate the PU connector on the back of the large potentiometer and carefully disconnect it.

Remove the Knob

The large potentiometer uses a press-fit knob without a set screw.

Wrap a soft polishing cloth around the base of the knob and gently pull upward. This helps protect the pickguard surface while removing the knob.

Remove the Potentiometer

After removing the knob, you will see the mounting component securing the potentiometer.

A dedicated tool can be used to remove this component, but it can also be loosened manually. Hold the end of the potentiometer with one hand and secure the black plastic component on the shaft with the other.

Turn the component counter-clockwise until it loosens, then remove the large potentiometer completely.

Install the replacement potentiometer by reversing the removal process. Secure the mounting component, reinstall the knob, and reconnect the PU connector.

Use the reference photo taken before starting to confirm that every component and connector has returned to its original position.

Once everything is secured and connected, your Inspire is ready to play again.

Watch the Complete Replacement Process

Follow the video below for a visual walkthrough of the complete potentiometer replacement process.