SX 5-string replacement pickups

[GeddyisGod]

I'm thinking of getting a SX 5 string J bass to goof around with. My concern is that the cheap single coil pickups will be noisy. Are there any good replacements that can be dropped in without having to do any routing?

[DeanT]

Practically any aftermarket pup should fit. Why not try shielding the route before replacing the pups. That should take care of the noise problem.

[jasonbraatz]

Originally Posted by DeanT

Practically any aftermarket pup should fit.

No, they won't - not without modifications. The SX 5 string uses pickups that are the same size as a normal 4 string jazz - Bridge = 3.725", Neck = 3.600" instead of most 5 string pickups having 3.725" pickups in both positions.

EMG makes a custom set of 5 string pickups to fit 4 string dimensions (the J-set 3.0,) and that's the only one I could find. Every other set either has two 3.725" pickups or "Fender Jazz 5" sized ones with 4.10" bridge and 3.965" neck.

Fortunately, I believe the route under the neck pickup is sufficiently large that you should be able to put a 3.725" neck pickup in there with some trimming of the pickguard.

[laboitenoire]

Originally Posted by jasonbraatz

EMG makes a custom set of 5 string pickups to fit 4 string dimensions (the J-set 3.0,) and that's the only one I could find.

There's the Bartolini 59 J1 L/S and the 59 CBJD L/S as well. Also, Duncan SJB-5 sets are the right dimensions.

[Basshole]

Go with the Barts.