Question about slap playing

[notverygood]

Does the location of the pickups affect a players ability to slap? I'm going to be learning this in the next few months and I'll be looking to buy another bass about the same time. I'm wondering if having a neck pickup would get in the way. Do you hit the string right at the neck all the time, or can you hit behind the pickup? Thanks.

[Kipaste]

No, having a neck pickup should not be a problem. Jazz bass is the original slapper... However, some basses with 24 fret necks or special neck pickup placement/size near the neck can bother some players as most people slap at the position where fingerboard ends. This doesn't mean it's the only right place. You can slap anywhere. Just like with fingerstyle, experimenting with the position will bring new tones to your fingertips.

[notverygood]

Thanks, that's a relief. Most of the basses I like have a neck pickup.

[MNAirHead]

IT's more in setup than type of bass.