Pickup Height

[marxbear]

Hi, I am wanting to raise the pickup on my Attitude Bass so that it acts like a RAMP allowing my fingers to attack the notes better: aka Billy Sheehan.

What I am finding is that I can't get the height out of the pickup and I think I am going to have to put packing under it.

Anyone done this or have any suggestions??

[rumblethump]

Yes you can use more foam underneath to raise the pickup if it has reached maximum height. But, if you raise it too high your pickup magnets will pull on the strings causing problems. 3/16" from pole pieces to strings is a good place to start but I wouldn't get too much closer to the strings.

[R. Laevinus]

I would not advise this.

Reasoning is as follows:
1. You'll need longer screws - this is a hassle.
2. Bringing the magnets that close to the strings will hurt your sustain.
3. Most importantly - bringing the pickups so close will result in strings striking them, resulting in loud and angry noises.

Instead of trying to use the pickup as a ramp, why don't you try using a ramp? You could try cutting pieces of corrugated cardboard, sticking them together with double-sided tape, and taping the whole thing on under the strings - if you like the way this works, consider the expense of a proper ramp.

You could also place a piece of wood over the pickups, and use longer screws to mount said piece of wood, and use this as your ramp, without killing your sustain or getting string clack on the pups.

Just some thoughts!