Pick up static when moved/touched

[twistd]

I am going to look at a used bass tomorrow. The owner said when you move one of the pick ups, there is a static sound, "like a radio" he said. Any thoughts on this? Why would the pick-up be movable (maybe he is only touching it)? Does it sound like a loose wire or bad pick-up? Is it an easy fix? It is a 2004 American Jazz. Thanks for your help.

[bassbenj]

Originally Posted by twistd

I am going to look at a used bass tomorrow. The owner said when you move one of the pick ups, there is a static sound, "like a radio" he said. Any thoughts on this? Why would the pick-up be movable (maybe he is only touching it)? Does it sound like a loose wire or bad pick-up? Is it an easy fix? It is a 2004 American Jazz. Thanks for your help.

Usually what people call "static" is the sound you hear when you have a loose connection (like your jack comes loose).

So the indication is that there is a loose wire or bad connection having to do with one of the pickups. It's hard to say exactly WHAT is loose without investigation. But chances are it's just a "cold" solder joint on the pickup wires somewhere. If the problem is on the external wires it's a trivial snap to fix. (resolder pickup connections) but the problem could be inside the pickup in which case it may or may not be possible to fix depending on potting, where the wire is loose etc. So the bottom line is best case you resolder a connection and are on your way. (or have a tech do it...add to cost of bass) worst case is you have to buy a new pickup and have it installed.