Choosing pickups for my next bass build

Bardolph · #1 07-28-2010, 02:49 PM

I'm starting on bass build #2, and I'm going for kind of a Warwick vibe. The pickup placement will be similar to the thumb, with 2 jazz pickups close to the bridge.

I'm going for a really ballsy sound that will cut through in a rock band. I'm thinking of going with SD basslines. Since the pickups are close to the bridge, I need something that won't sound too thin. Any suggestions from those who have tried out the different models?

acebase62 · #2 07-29-2010, 05:52 PM

I am using a set of the SD Hot Stack for Jazz and like them. The pickups are spaced like a standard Fender Jazz, even though the body is P shaped. I use 500k volume pots and a Fender TBX tone, and can get a good variety of tones.

Volume4 · #3 07-29-2010, 08:30 PM

I just switched from 75 RI Jazz pups to Antiquity II's

Both excellent pickups. The Ants have plenty of growl, punch and good all around. The 75 RI pups were smoother and had more bottom end.

But I'd say if you want something that cuts and growls.....the Antiquity II's do the job very well.

I also have an Antiquity II in my P and to me at least....thats all I'll ever need and would probably put one in any P I get in the future.

Muaguana · #4 07-29-2010, 08:53 PM

If you're custom building it, I say load up two Tesla VR-B4's. I actually have one paired with a neck SD bassline in my jazz, and it sounds amazing. Balls to the wall and back.

JAGGL3S · #5 07-29-2010, 08:54 PM

EMGS?

Bardolph · #6 07-29-2010, 09:30 PM

I'll probably be going with one of the common brands like SD or EMG because I'm able to get a pretty good discount on them.

Here's a video for tonal reference. The tone this guy gets out of his Warwick is absolutely perfect. Right at 3:47 when he's really digging in, that's the growl and ballsy tone I'm talking about. I don't have the money for a Thumb, so I'm doing my best to get close.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4J9JpvZOt8