6 Best Paper in Oil Capacitors for Audio Builds

The CRC .0047uF 100V Paper-in-Oil Guitar Tone Capacitor is the top pick for most buyers searching for the best paper in oil capacitors. Its 0.0047uF value fits many guitar tone-control upgrades, making it a practical choice for common replacement and modification work. It is a focused guitar component, not a general capacitor for every electronic circuit.

This guide is for guitarists, repairers, and hobbyists choosing paper-in-oil capacitors for tone circuits, vintage-style builds, or replacement work. The key factors are capacitance value, voltage rating, physical size, and lead layout. The capacitor must match the circuit and fit inside the available control cavity. The 6 picks below are ranked with clear reasons and honest drawbacks for each. Check your guitar’s existing capacitor value and available space before ordering.

Quick Comparison

6 Best Paper in Oil Capacitors, Ranked

This list is ranked by performance, construction, and value, counting down from number six to the top pick.

6. Emerson Custom Paper-in-Oil Tone Capacitor

Best for: Vintage-style guitar tone-circuit upgrades

The Emerson Custom Paper in Oil Tone Capacitor uses a 0.015 microfarad value for guitar and bass tone circuits. Its paper-in-oil construction suits players who want a period-style replacement rather than a basic ceramic or film part. The capacitor includes 20 AWG copper-clad steel leads, which provide sturdy connection points for soldering. At $31.65, it costs much more than standard replacement capacitors.

Its 0.015uf rating gives this part a different starting point from the more common 0.022uf or 0.047uf tone-cap values. That can appeal to players fine-tuning a particular instrument, though the final sound also depends on the pickups, pots, wiring, and control settings. The compact body measures 0.875 inches long and 0.40 inches in diameter. Those dimensions may fit many guitar cavities, but buyers should measure first, especially when replacing a smaller factory part. This is a focused component for a specific wiring choice, not a universal upgrade for every instrument.

Pros

• The 0.015uf value gives guitar and bass builders another tone-circuit option.
• Paper-in-oil construction fits vintage-style restoration and custom wiring projects.
• 20 AWG copper-clad steel leads provide substantial soldering leads.

Cons

• The $31.65 price is high for a single tone capacitor.
• Its 0.875-by-0.40-inch body may not fit tight control cavities.

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5. Emerson Custom Paper in Oil Tone Capacitor 0.047uF

Best for: Guitarists replacing a 0.047uf tone cap

The Emerson Custom Paper in Oil Tone Capacitor is a single 0.047uf component for guitar tone-control circuits. Its paper-in-oil construction gives it a traditional parts profile, while the red-and-cream finish adds a vintage look inside the control cavity. At $34.46, it costs much more than basic ceramic or film capacitors, so the appeal is aimed at builders who care about component type and appearance.

The 0.047uf value is a common choice for many electric guitar tone circuits, especially when a stronger treble roll-off range suits the instrument and player. Still, a capacitor does not create one fixed sound by itself. The result depends on the guitar’s pickups, pots, wiring, and the way the tone control is used. The main standout is its paper-in-oil format and distinctive color scheme, not a guaranteed tonal change. Buyers should also confirm that 0.047uf matches their circuit before ordering.

Pros

• The 0.047uf value suits many traditional guitar tone-control layouts.
• Paper-in-oil construction fits vintage-style instrument builds.
• Red-and-cream coloring adds visual character under a clear control cover.

Cons

• At $34.46, it costs considerably more than common modern capacitors.
• The single 0.047uf value may not suit every pickup or wiring setup.

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4. 0.022uF Paper-in-Oil Tone Capacitor for Guitar, 2-Pack

Best for: Vintage-style Les Paul wiring upgrades

This set includes two 0.022uF paper-in-oil tone capacitors for guitar electronics and audio circuits. The matched pair suits projects that need two capacitors with the same nominal value. Each unit carries a 5% tolerance rating and a 630V voltage rating, which gives plenty of electrical headroom for passive guitar wiring. The capacitors were manufactured between 1975 and 1985, so they also fit restorations that call for period-era parts.

The main draw is the combination of vintage construction and measured matching. Paper-in-oil capacitors have a different build than modern ceramic or film parts, and some guitar owners prefer them for traditional instrument repairs. Still, the capacitor alone will not guarantee a specific tone. The final result depends on the guitar’s pickups, pots, wiring, and amplifier. At $24.90 for two pieces, this is a specialist purchase rather than a low-cost replacement set.

Pros

• Includes two 0.022uF capacitors, a suitable value for many guitar tone-control circuits.
• Matched pair with extremely low measured tolerance supports closer component matching.
• 630V rating provides substantial voltage capacity for guitar and audio applications.

Cons

• The $24.90 price is high compared with common modern guitar capacitors.
• Parts made between 1975 and 1985 are vintage stock, so buyers should confirm condition and lead suitability before installation.

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3. 0.022uF PIO Tone Capacitors, Matched Pair

Best for: Period-style guitar tone circuit repairs

This matched pair contains two 0.022uF paper-in-oil tone capacitors for guitar electronics and audio circuits. Each capacitor carries a 630-volt rating and was manufactured in the 1980s. The .022mfd value is common in guitar tone circuits, but the listing does not provide lead length, body dimensions, or connector details. Installation may require soldering and enough space inside the control cavity.

The main distinction is the matching process. Although the rated tolerance is 10%, each pair is measured and selected to fall within 1% of the other. That gives both components closely matched values for projects that call for paired parts. They use paper-in-oil construction instead of a modern film format. At $29.90 for two capacitors, this set fits a period-style guitar repair or an audio build that specifically requires PIO components. The listing does not include a measurement sheet, so buyers should not assume both capacitors measure exactly 0.022uF.

Pros

• Two capacitors are matched within 1% of each other.
• The 630-volt rating suits guitar and audio applications.
• Paper-in-oil construction fits period-style restoration projects.

Cons

• Components manufactured in the 1980s may have storage or condition concerns.
• The $29.90 price is high for a two-capacitor replacement set.

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2. Emerson Custom Paper-in-Oil Tone Capacitor

Best for: Vintage-style guitar wiring projects

The Emerson Custom Paper in Oil Tone Capacitor is a single 0.022 uF component for guitar and bass tone circuits. Its paper-in-oil construction suits buyers who want a traditional replacement part rather than a compact modern capacitor. The 0.022 uF value is common in many electric instruments, but the correct value still depends on the instrument’s wiring and the tone response you want.

What makes this part notable is its physical build. It uses 20 AWG copper-clad steel leads, giving you substantial wire for a soldered installation. The capacitor measures 0.875 inch long and 0.40 inch in diameter. Those dimensions may matter inside a crowded control cavity, so measure the available space before buying. At $29.99, this is a focused restoration or upgrade purchase, not a low-cost replacement for every repair. The package includes one capacitor, so a full electronics refresh may require other parts and supplies.

Pros

• The 0.022 uF value fits many guitar and bass tone circuits.
• 20 AWG leads provide sturdy material for soldered connections.
• Compact 0.875-by-0.40-inch dimensions can fit many control cavities.

Cons

• The $29.99 price is high for one passive component.
• Its 0.022 uF value may not suit every wiring setup or preferred tone range.

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1. CRC .0047uF 100V Paper-in-Oil Guitar Tone Capacitor

Best for: Eldred mod builders and Gilmour projects

This listing includes two new old stock, paper-in-oil capacitors rated at .0047µF, also written as 4700pF. Each capacitor carries a 100V rating and is made in the USA. At $12.99 for the pair, the package suits guitarists who need the correct small-value parts for a specific wiring change rather than a general replacement.

The capacitors are intended for Eldred “cocked wah” modifications and Gilmour-style guitar mods. They can also work as series low-cut filters, giving them another useful role in custom circuits. Their main limitation is easy to miss: .0047µF is not the same value as the .047µF capacitor commonly used in a standard guitar tone control. These parts should not be purchased as routine tone-cap replacements. The paper-in-oil construction and new old stock status may appeal to builders who prefer vintage-style components, but the listing does not promise a particular sound or a measurable change in tone. Check the wiring diagram for your mod before ordering.

Pros

• Includes two capacitors, enough for one project or a spare.
• The 4700pF value fits Eldred and Gilmour-style mod applications.
• 100V paper-in-oil construction, made in the USA.

Cons

• The .0047µF value is unsuitable for a standard .047µF tone-control replacement.
• New old stock parts may have older markings or packaging, and the listing provides no tolerance or physical-size specifications.

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Buying Guide

The most important factor is the capacitor’s voltage rating. Choose a rating at least 1.5 times higher than the circuit’s maximum voltage, because paper-in-oil capacitors can fail dangerously when pushed near their limit.

• Voltage rating: Match the circuit type, not just the number. For a 300-volt DC amplifier, choose at least 450 volts DC. AC circuits require a listed AC rating.
• Capacitance and tolerance: Select the exact value shown in the schematic. A 0.1 µF capacitor with ±10% tolerance suits many coupling jobs, while ±5% helps filter and timing circuits.
• Leakage and insulation: For vintage audio equipment, look for tested leakage below 1 microamp at the rated voltage. Reject untested parts with oil residue, swelling, or cracked seals.
• Construction and documentation: Prefer sealed metal or molded cases with clear markings, manufacturer details, and a production code. Avoid unmarked surplus unless the seller provides test results.
• Size and price: Measure the mounting area and lead spacing first. New or tested parts commonly cost $5 to $30 each, while large 600-volt models may cost more.

If you cannot optimize everything, prioritize voltage rating, then verify leakage before installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best paper in oil capacitors for my circuit?

The best paper in oil capacitors match the circuit’s capacitance, voltage rating, frequency, physical size, and leakage requirements. For a replacement, choose the same capacitance and an equal or higher voltage rating, then confirm lead spacing and polarity requirements. A 0.1 µF, 400 V part is not automatically suitable for a 0.1 µF, 100 V circuit.

What are paper in oil capacitors made of?

Paper-in-oil capacitors are components that use oil-impregnated paper as the insulating dielectric between conductive layers. The paper stores electrical energy while the oil reduces air gaps and helps limit moisture exposure. Many use metal foil electrodes and sealed cans, with common capacitance values ranging from about 0.001 to 10 microfarads.

Can paper in oil capacitors be used in audio equipment?

Paper-in-oil capacitors can be used in audio coupling, tone-control, and some power-supply circuits, but only when their ratings fit the application. Check capacitance, working voltage, AC current, temperature range, leakage, and safety approvals before installing one. For mains-connected equipment, use a capacitor marked with the required X or Y safety classification.

Are paper in oil capacitors better than film capacitors?

Paper-in-oil capacitors are not universally better than film capacitors; they may suit restoration work, while modern film parts often provide tighter tolerances, smaller sizes, and longer documented service life. Compare the datasheets rather than choosing by construction alone. A 5% tolerance part can measure anywhere from 0.95 to 1.05 µF at its rated conditions.

Conclusion

CRC .0047uF 100V Paper-in-Oil Guitar Tone Capacitor is the top recommendation for guitar players who want a low-value tone capacitor with a vintage-style paper-in-oil design and a 100V rating for a straightforward guitar wiring project. If your priority is a stronger treble roll-off, pick a higher-value capacitor instead, while shoppers focused on tight control-cavity clearance should choose the smallest compatible option rather than favoring construction alone. Before buying, double-check the capacitor’s physical size, lead spacing, compatibility with your guitar and existing controls, package quantity, and current price, since listings can change and a part that fits electrically may still be awkward to install in the available cavity.