Can I use regular J pups from 4-string on a 5-stringer?

jar240 · #1 10-15-2006, 04:49 PM

The dimensions are the same, but will they sound right...especially where most 4-string pups have 8 pole pieces instead of 10?

Thanks,
Chris

tplyons · #2 10-15-2006, 04:50 PM

Probably will not have the same volume string to string.

If they have blade style magnets, then it should work, but not with regular poles.

msquared · #3 10-15-2006, 05:04 PM

Even with blade style magnets it doesn't always work.

**David Wilson** · #4 10-16-2006, 04:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by msquared

Even with blade style magnets it doesn't always work.

Right, check the specifications to see what the field width is. EMG LJ pickups, for example, are generally fine to be used on five string bass.

jar240 · #5 10-16-2006, 06:35 AM

Thanks for the info...I think I'll just keep looking for some designed specifically for 5 stringers.

Chris

Searcy · #6 10-16-2006, 08:47 AM

With a blade style pole or bar magnet pole you will be OK if the pole is as large or larger than the spread of the strings over the pickup. For example a pickup with a 3" bar magnet as a pole can be used on a 5 string so long as the space between the B and G strings is not greater that 3" over the pickup.

Understand?