CTS Pot 500k Audio Split-Shaft (4 Pack) - Reliable Guitar Upgrade

In this review the CTS Pot 500k Audio Split-Shaft 4-pack is evaluated for guitarists and techs who need authentic, easy-to-install potentiometers for electric guitar restorations and upgrades. The bottom line: this pack is for players and builders who want genuine CTS quality and the familiar low-torque feel used on classic Strats, delivered with short bushings and the split-shaft needed for push-on plastic knobs. Its main selling point is trustworthiness - industry-standard parts made to tight 10% tolerances that simply behave like the originals.

Key Features

• Genuine CTS construction: These pots are made for the seller by CTS, providing the same build quality used by long-running American guitar makers.
• 500k audio taper: The 500k 10% audio-taper follows the logarithmic response humans perceive, giving smoother volume control across the sweep.
• Split-shaft design: The 24-tooth knurled split-shaft accepts push-on plastic knobs reliably, eliminating the need for set-screw knobs.
• Short threaded bushing: The 3/8-32 bushing is 3/8' diameter and 1/4' long, ideal for mounting to pickguards and control plates without excess protrusion.
• Low torque feel: The dimpled back CTS low-torque design keeps turning easy and familiar to players used to classic Strat controls.

Who It's For

These pots are best for players restoring vintage-style electrics, techs swapping worn controls, or hobbyists building instruments that need industry-standard components. The combination of short bushings and split-shaft makes them especially useful when mounting to pickguards or control plates while using push-on plastic knobs.

Those who need specialty tapers, sealed or non-split shafts, or different bushing lengths should look elsewhere; this pack is focused on the common 500k audio use case and preserving the traditional low-torque Strat feel rather than offering every possible variant.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Authentic CTS quality provides dependable, long-lasting performance praised by customers for durability.
• 500k audio taper gives a natural-sounding volume sweep that matches human perception of loudness.
• Short 1/4' bushing and split-shaft design make installation to pickguards and push-on knobs straightforward.
• Low-torque, dimpled-back construction feels smooth and familiar during use.

Cons

• Pack is limited to the 500k audio split-shaft style, so musicians who need different tapers or shaft types must source alternatives.
• Plastic push-on knobs required for the split-shaft; users wanting set-screw knobs will need adapters or different pots.

Specifications

Quantity	4 pots
Resistance	500k ohm
Tolerance	10%
Taper	Audio (logarithmic)
Shaft type	24-tooth knurled split-shaft
Bushing thread	3/8-32, 3/8' diameter, 1/4' long
Design note	CTS low-torque, dimpled back

Our Verdict

The CTS Pot 500k Audio Split-Shaft 4-pack is a practical, cost-effective choice for anyone restoring or maintaining electric guitars who wants authentic, easy-turning CTS pots with short bushings for pickguard mounting. Its classic audio taper and durable construction make it good value for projects that demand reliable, vintage-style controls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these accept push-on plastic knobs?
Yes; the 24-tooth knurled split-shaft is specifically designed for push-on plastic knobs without set screws.

Are the bushings short enough for pickguards?
Yes; the 3/8-32 bushing is 3/8' diameter and 1/4' long, suitable for mounting to pickguards and control plates.

Do these come with hardware for installation?
Yes; each pack includes a lockwasher for inside mounting and a flat washer with nut for outside mounting so you have the right parts for installation.