Replacement pickups for Squier VM 77

nicopiano · #1 12-12-2012, 09:07 PM

I own a Squier VM and I'm not crazy about the pickups sound.

I'm looking for a pair of replacement pickups for 200$ or less.

I tried DiMarzio J on a previous bass but didn't like the lack of clarity. I like to cut in the mix.

Maybe EMG? There is so many models...

I just don't want hi-fi modern sound, nor purist vintage. Something in between.

Thank you for your suggestions.

96tbird · #2 12-12-2012, 10:00 PM

My bet is you can achieve what you want with strings. Maybe try Rotosound swing bass stainless steels. Gnarly.

nicopiano · #3 12-12-2012, 10:05 PM

That's a good idea. There is old daddario strings on it right now and it's not my thing. (Used bass)

So far, my favorite strings are DR hi-beam, but I'm curious about roto swing.

Frenchy-Lefty · #4 12-13-2012, 06:15 PM

I have a VM 70's and I absolutely love the pickups. On previous Jazz Basses I have tried over 10 different sets of pickups and I think those are are perfect balance of punch/growl/clarity.
As it was suggested, start by replacing the strings (I like the DR HiBeams personally but on my VM I currently have some Slinkies)
If you really want the funk, a Badass II bridge will make a huge difference in the tone. Especially if you want to slap.
I have found out too that it is a good idea to first try your bass with a different rig if you are not happy with the sound. IMO Those VM's sound really good.

nicopiano · #5 12-13-2012, 07:52 PM

New strings... Then I'll let you know. Thank you!

Frenchy-Lefty · #6 12-13-2012, 08:12 PM

Also on mine when I got it the neck pickup required to be lowered. I screwed in with a ful 360 degree on each screw. It sounded much better. You may want to give it a try.

blindrabbit · #7 01-31-2013, 08:58 PM

Cut more? Man, you may want to buy a Japanese blade instead if you want to cut more. I wish the pickups in my VM Jazz would *calm down* a little - they are proving to be quite hot and bright for my liking, I almost always run the tone knob down a fair amount, often completely rolled off.

Did changing the strings work out?

nicopiano · #8 01-31-2013, 09:48 PM

Yes, now it's a great bass!!!

C.Linton · #9 01-31-2013, 11:00 PM

That's what I figured. More often than not, just changing the strings and doing a setup, which would include adjusting pickup height, is more than enough to vastly improve the sound. New pickups are not always the answer.