Carparelli CTS 283 Premium Telecaster Control Plate

Available in Chrome • Black • Gold

Introducing the next evolution in Telecaster wiring — built for serious tone chasers and discerning builders who demand only the finest components.
Carparelli Guitars proudly presents one of the first Pre-Wired Telecaster Control Plates featuring the ultra-rare CTS 250K Sealed 283 Premium Audio Potentiometers — the gold standard for reliability, feel, and tonal precision.

Every unit is hand-assembled and tested in-house at Carparelli Guitars, combining military-grade precision with boutique-level tone craftsmanship.

Specifications

• Control Plate Options: Chrome • Black • Gold
• Switch: 3-Way USA CRL Lever Switch
• Switch Tip Options: Black • Cream • White • Parchment
• Volume & Tone Controls: 2 × CTS 250K Sealed 283 Premium Audio Pots
• Capacitor: 0.047 µF Vitamin Q Oil-Filled Paper Capacitor
• Output Jack: Pure Tone Multi-Contact Jack (USA)
• Barrel Knobs: Chrome Black or Gold
• Wiring: Expertly hand-wired with precision and care at Carparelli Guitars
• Fitment: Standard Telecaster & T-Style bodies (USA/MIM spec)

Why the CTS 283?

Built for military-grade performance, the CTS 283 sealed series potentiometers are dustproof, moisture-proof, and vibration-resistant.
Their buttery-smooth rotation and precision taper allow for exceptional tonal control — from glassy cleans to snarling overdrive — without dead spots or drop-offs.
These are studio-grade components built to outlast and outperform standard open-frame pots, providing an unmistakable sense of control and refinement under your fingertips.

Carparelli Quality Promise

Each plate is individually tested for taper accuracy, smooth response, and flawless switching before leaving our shop.
This is not your average control plate — this is Carparelli-level craftsmanship, made for players who know that great tone begins in the wiring.

Tags

Telecaster Control Plate; Tele Wiring Kit; CTS 283 Pots; Premium Audio Pots; Carparelli Control Plate; Vitamin Q Capacitor; Pure Tone Jack; Telecaster Upgrade; Black Gold Chrome Tele Plate; Carparelli Guitars; Prewired Tele Control Plate; CRL Switch; Switch Tip Options; Custom Tele Electronics; Boutique Guitar Parts; Tele Mods; Handmade Guitar Electronics; Pro Guitar Wiring; Telecaster Premium Kit

The "CTS 250K Sealed 283 Premium Audio Potentiometer

The "CTS 250K Sealed 283 Premium Audio Potentiometer" is essentially the deluxe, heavy-duty version of the regular CTS 250K audio pot. While they share the same basic function, the "Premium" and "Sealed" designations indicate several critical upgrades that justify its higher cost.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes it special compared to the regular version:

1. Sealed & Dust-Proof Construction

This is the most significant difference.

• Regular CTS Pot: Has an open slot at the back to accommodate the solder lugs. Over time, dust, moisture, oxidation, and other contaminants can enter through this slot and settle on the carbon resistance track. This is a primary cause of the infamous "scratchy" or "crackling" sound when you turn the knob.
• Sealed 283 Premium Pot: Features a completely sealed, solid plastic back. The solder lugs are molded into the housing. This creates a robust barrier against the elements, making it ideal for guitars and amps that travel, live in humid climates, or are simply exposed to airborne dust. This dramatically improves long-term reliability and prevents scratchiness.

2. Superior "Audio Taper" Consistency

The "audio taper" (or log taper) is a curve designed to match the human ear's perception of loudness, giving you smooth, gradual volume increase.

• Regular CTS Pot: The taper is good, but it can have slight variances from pot to pot. The curve might not be perfectly smooth, especially at the lower end of the turn, which can make it tricky to find subtle "sweet spot" volume levels.
• Premium 283 Pot: CTS uses a higher-quality, cermet (ceramic-metal) resistance track and a more precise manufacturing process. This results in a much more accurate and consistent audio taper. The volume sweep feels incredibly smooth, linear, and predictable from the moment you start turning. This is a major reason why professional guitarists and builders prefer them.

3. Enhanced Mechanical Feel

This is a tactile upgrade you can feel with your fingers.

• Regular CTS Pot: Uses a standard bushing and a lighter-duty plastic shaft mount. The shaft can have a slight "wobble," and the turning force can feel a bit light or uneven.
• Premium 283 Pot: Features a longer, 3/8" bushing for greater stability when mounted. The internal detent mechanism (the "gear" you feel when turning) is more robust. The result is a smoother, more solid, and more durable feel when you turn the knob. It feels like a high-end component.

4. Higher-Quality Materials & Construction

• Shaft: The shaft on the Premium pot is often knurled more precisely for a better grip with knob set-screws.
• Housing: The overall plastic housing is more robust.
• Terminals: The solder lugs are sturdy and firmly molded into the sealed body.

Comparison Table at a Glance

Who is the "Premium" Pot For?

• Guitar/Bass Upgraders: If you're replacing the pots in a Fender American Series, a Gibson, or any quality instrument, this is the pot to use. It's what many high-end manufacturers use from the factory.
• Builders of Custom Guitars: For consistency, reliability, and a premium feel.
• Anyone with Scratchy Pots: If you're tired of cleaning pots, the sealed design is a permanent solution.
• Audiophiles & Amp Builders: For building or repairing tube amplifier volume and tone controls where smooth, noise-free operation is critical.

Conclusion

Think of it this way:
The regular CTS pot is a reliable, workhorse OEM part. It does the job well.
The CTS Sealed 283 Premium pot is a performance and reliability upgrade. It offers a superior tactile feel, a perfectly smooth and consistent volume sweep, and a sealed construction that ensures it will stay quiet and reliable for years to come.

For most players doing an upgrade, the difference in cost is well worth the significant improvement in performance and longevity.