Nordstrand NJ4 question

Ronen · #1 03-31-2009, 12:48 AM

I just got a new pair of Nordstrand NJ4 pickups after a friend got them a few months ago.
I notice a few differences, although it's the same model.
His set has three wires (an additional one is coming from a copper tape attached to the bottom of the pole pieces). The pole pieces for the A & D strings are higher than the outer ones, following the neck radius. The plastic covers were rounded with matt finish.
Mine have only two wires, all pole pieces are the same height, shiny covers not rounded.
Anyone knows if these are different, older/newer versions? Different specs?Can I add the third wire by myself, do I need to?
Thanks!

maurilio · #2 03-31-2009, 01:41 AM

you've got the NJ4 (single coil - no gray wire) he has a set of NJ4SV or SE (spilt coil):
http://www.nordstrandpickups.com/faq...rt/schematics/

M

Ronen · #3 03-31-2009, 01:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by maurilio

you've got the NJ4 (single coil - no gray wire) he has a set of NJ4SV or SE (spilt coil):
http://www.nordstrandpickups.com/faq...rt/schematics/

M

No... we both have the NJ4 single coils. His set has the third wire and mine doesn't.
I also have the NJ4SE on a different bass... I know the difference.
Thanks.

maurilio · #4 03-31-2009, 01:59 AM

did you take the covers off to check it out?

We don't install pole pieces ground wire on single coils.....

The staggered pole pieces (A and D) are used only on split coils models.

M

Ronen · #5 03-31-2009, 02:18 AM

LOL...
The guy is a student of mine. He ordered (and paid for) a NJ4 set. He then brought it here and I did the installation. I clearly remember one coil (the pickups slipped out of the covers easily) and a third exposed wire... I'm not 100% sure regarding the pole pieces height.
So, just to make sure I do not need to see a doctor, I'll wait for Thursday when he comes in for a lesson and I'll double check everything.
Thanks!

Ronen · #6 03-31-2009, 02:35 AM

OK,
Couldn't wait so I gave him a call...
Is there a doctor on TB?

You got it right maurilio, I remembered wrong. No third wire and all pole pieces the same. Only thing is the plastic covers are different.

Let this thread be a beacon for those who always think they're right

joeyl · #7 03-31-2009, 07:36 AM

gyancey · #8 03-31-2009, 09:18 AM

The third shielding only wire is needed for the Audere preamp, because in that system the signal ground is biased up to 1/2 Vcc (~4.5V) while the shield ground is at 0V so you can't connect them together.

Ronen · #9 03-31-2009, 09:28 AM

So why Nordstrand don't use it on single coils?