Upgrading The P

MammaryVest · #1 11-11-2006, 02:17 PM

I don't know exactly if this is the right forum for this. I'm thinking about upgrading my mexican P with a badass II bridge and some DiMarzio DP127 Split P pickups. I obviously know about the bridge because of it's reputation, but does anyone know if these are good pickups? anyone have any random advice for upgrading a bass?

tplyons · #2 11-11-2006, 04:55 PM

The question is what don't you like about the bass?

Why do you feel the bridge is lacking? Why do you feel the pickup is lacking? What are you trying to achieve with this bass?

MammaryVest · #3 11-12-2006, 12:27 AM

I'm trying to get the bridge more solid, and also to eliminate the fact that the intonation springs rattle when I hit a low note. As for the pick-ups, i want the sound to be not so dark as a pbass naturally is, but still maintain some darkness.

62bass · #4 11-12-2006, 07:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MammaryVest

I'm trying to get the bridge more solid, and also to eliminate the fact that the intonation springs rattle when I hit a low note. As for the pick-ups, i want the sound to be not so dark as a pbass naturally is, but still maintain some darkness.

The Duncan Quarter Pounder will get you the sound you want. I replaced a DiMarzio Split P with it and liked the sound better. I found the DiMarzio a bit thin in the bottom and too harsh on top. The Quarter Pounder is much fatter sounding to me and more musically pleasing, yet still has a P bass sound. You'll be able to get plenty of top end from it if you want.

As far as upgrading the bridge, I think you can find a replacement bridge of higher quality than the stock without going the expense of the Badass. Check the Stew Mac catalogue.

Jazz Ad · #5 11-12-2006, 07:51 AM

The SplitP is one of the darkest and deepest PUs around, so it's probably not what you're looking for.

MammaryVest · #6 11-12-2006, 12:04 PM

Another pickup I'm looking at is the Passive EMG p-style. Anyone know anything about them?

tplyons · #7 11-12-2006, 01:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MammaryVest

Another pickup I'm looking at is the Passive EMG p-style. Anyone know anything about them?

Not a big fan of them at all. Actually, I'm hardly impressed by anything made by EMG.

However, the Dimarzio Model P may be slightly more up your alley. It's got a bit more midrange honk than other pickups, but still leaves the bottom and top intact. Certainly a bit brighter than a lot out there while retaining the full bodied tone of your bass.

And as far as the bridge: there are plenty of replacements out there without stepping up to the Badass. I prefer Fender style bridges after years with Badass bridges and frankly, I'm not too likely to go back.

MammaryVest · #8 11-12-2006, 07:41 PM

I think my final upgrade decisions have been made. I'll upgrade the stock Mexican pickups to Duncan basslines (I see no objections there) The stock bridge to badass (different opinions, but whatever, and I can get it grooved) and a hipshot extender key ( I have the money, why not?) All this will be complimented by a nice Fender tweed case with a red interior!!

georgestrings · #9 11-13-2006, 10:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tplyons

Not a big fan of them at all. Actually, I'm hardly impressed by anything made by EMG.

And as far as the bridge: there are plenty of replacements out there without stepping up to the Badass. I prefer Fender style bridges after years with Badass bridges and frankly, I'm not too likely to go back.

Agreed on all of the above - IMO, the BA bridges take away a bit of the Fender tone I like so much, and are an unwanted, and unnecessary expense - although YMMV... If the springs are making noise - and they occasionally do on my basses - I just tweak 'em a little with my fingernail 'til they quit...

- georgestrings

The Dave · #10 11-13-2006, 04:52 PM

I'm out on the BAII! If you want a cool bridge, check out Hipshot. All of their bass bridges are quick load and the saddles are pre-grooved. I got a three string retainer from them for my Jazz and their customer service is great. I'll be getting their Vintage or B Style bridge pretty soon. www.hipshotproducts.com

georgestrings · #11 11-14-2006, 05:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Dave

I'm out on the BAII! If you want a cool bridge, check out Hipshot. All of their bass bridges are quick load and the saddles are pre-grooved. I got a three string retainer from them for my Jazz and their customer service is great. I'll be getting their Vintage or B Style bridge pretty soon. www.hipshotproducts.com

If I absolutely wanted to replace a stock Fender bridge, I'd probably go with a Gotoh - although any that have been mentioned here are quality products... Personally, I've never had any trouble with Fender bridges - got 4 of 'em on basses right now, and unless a problem develops, I don't see that changing...

- georgestrings

tplyons · #12 11-14-2006, 12:06 PM

As a matter of fact, I just took the Badass II off my Marcus Miller for a stock-ish bent-plate Fender style bridge, and am lovin' it.

Though while I'm at it, I'm going to try a Gotoh 201.

SuperDuck · #13 11-14-2006, 12:27 PM

The Gotoh 201 is a superb bridge. I would recommend over a Badass any day. It's cheaper, too!