Just got a used Steinberger Synapse. Yes, ebay. Bass plays great. I've never had a Steinberger before but after about an hour of playing, I'm really connecting with it.

Trouble is, the EMG doesn't seem to be picking up the G & D strings. B, E, A - no problem. Piezo: all five strings. EMG: only B, E, A.

Does anyone have any ideas?

It's a split coil pickup like a P bass. The pickup must be bad. One coil is not working. You will have to replace it.

Thank you! Without cracking it open I was beginning to think that might be the case. I can see this happening with a P Bass split coil. Thank you again!

I would contact EMG... I don't know what kind of warrantee they have, but that bass can't be that old.

That's probably an EMG-40P5.

Another good suggestion. I've been playing electric since the early '80's and I've never had a pickup go bad. I wonder what they'll say :hmm:

Anyone know a good source for EMGs if they say "too bad, so sad..."?

Anyone know a good source for EMGs if they say "too bad, so sad..."?

I've got a used one that's in good working order.

I might need to take you up on that. Thank you! I just don't know if it could be the pot as the Synapse has a center detent pot that allows you to dial in all Piezo, all EMG, or a blend of them both. Someone handier than me with electronics may need to get in there with a multi-meter. If that doesn't make sense then maybe it is just the pickup.

Hey, I just checked out your site. Very nice stuff! I've recently just joined Talk Bass Forums and it's already worth it!

From your experience, is there any chance it's that pot I was referring to? Otherwise I may need the used 40P5. (or an SGD replacement...)

Thanks!

The two coils in the EMG are wired in parallel to the internal preamp. So if one coil has failed, it's inside the pickup, not the result of a pot or something.

I'll send you a PM.

Then this should be a real easy swap. I'd like to make arrangements for the used 40P5. Or alternatively, I never did get overly excited about any bass I ever played with an EMG. I like a warm nasaly bass tone from a fretless. Do you offer an alternative?

Do you offer an alternative?

I do! I sent you a PM.