The J of a P/J

MarcusPocus · #1 04-01-2010, 09:55 AM

The search function doesn't like to return anything when the criteria is "PJ".

I have been thinking about adding a J pickup to my P.
-My question is what is the measurement of the J pup?
-Is it in the same location away from the bridge as it is on a J bass?
-What is that measurement?
Pics of a hot Rod P or the new DLX models look like the J pup is a bit further away from the bridge.

My biggest interest is hearing from folks who have done the mod with J pup in different positions from the bridge.

-Is an extra 1/4 inch in either direction going to affect tone in a P/J config?

Thanks

**line6man** · #2 04-01-2010, 09:59 AM

Some people like '60s spacing, some like '70s spacing, and some like the pickup in different locations altogether.

It depends on the tone you're after.

MarcusPocus · #3 04-01-2010, 10:08 AM

For me, I like thick full with punch and edge. I'd think the 70s spacing would provide more of the edge while the 60 spacing would be a bit thicker? Maybe I could split the difference?

walterw · #4 04-01-2010, 08:56 PM

apparently the two "standard" approaches are to use normal P-pickup placement with '70s J placement, or slightly moved-neckward P placement with '60s J placement.

deedub72 · #5 04-01-2010, 09:06 PM

I have a couple of basses with the P/J configuration, to be honest I do not really care for the tone with the J pickup on. I will run it at half volume from time to time, but for the most part I just run the P pickup, to my ears it sounds fuller.

I would leave the bass alone and buy a bass that already has the P/J configuration. I know this does not answer your question...it seems to me you should probably try it out and make sure you like it before chopping up your bass.

just a thought...

MarcusPocus · #6 04-02-2010, 05:03 PM

Thanks for all of the answers. My bass is a Warmoth based parts bass so it is used to getting hacked on.