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Speed Knob vs. Top Hat Knob

Chili-Mike

Chili-Mike

New member
Joined
Jul 12, 2024
Messages
16
If you were adding black knobs to a flat-topped electric guitar, given the choice of Gibson Speed Knobs or Gibson Top Hat Knobs, which would you choose and why? There are no wrong answers. I need to choose and wonder if there are plusses or minuses that I'm not considering between these two. Thanks!
 
jb_abides

jb_abides

Well-known member
Joined
Apr 6, 2005
Messages
6,638
I like reflectors on my SGs, F'Birds...

and Top Hats (bells) on slab Reissue LPs... Juniors and Specials...

... but do switch THOSE up to Speed Knobs occasionally, mood and music style depending [for when I work the knobs hard n' dirty], especially on Juniors.

I'd probably go Speed Knobs more permanently on a Junior when musical style and workin' knobs mattered more than Historic looks ... thankfully, I have enough examples in the stable.

Now, 'flat' Fender style, I prefer metal Knurled Tele style even on S-styles, I don't get on well with Strat knobs, so all my 'modern' S-style eventually get Knurled Tele knobs [my Reissues stay 'pure'].

I suppose if keeping a Historic/Vintage vibe was immaterial, I'd lean towards Speed Knobs on a slap LP.

But always Reflectors on the SGs and FB!

More than you wanted to know, and not helpful at all, but felt like holding forth. I'm in a mood... :LOL:
 
Last edited:
Chili-Mike

Chili-Mike

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Joined
Jul 12, 2024
Messages
16
What I didn't share in my OP is that these are going on a HH Tele body with 4 knobs/switch in ES-335 configuration.
 
Chili-Mike

Chili-Mike

New member
Joined
Jul 12, 2024
Messages
16
Yeah, not sure the Tele knobs would fit the aesthetic, tho the knurling is nice for grip. I was leaning toward the speed knobs for interesting look but then I wondered "is there a reason these were phased out in favor of top hats?" I suppose it might have been an expense issue - Top Hats have less plastic, maybe cheaper to produce?
 
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