Weak output on G string, depsite raising pickups.

[elpelotero]

I put in a new preamp and pickups in my Warwick. Although the low strings sound amazing, the G and to a lesser degree the D strings sound really weak in output. I raised the pickups up a lot, but they are still weak.

The funny part is the old MEC stuff was balanced all around in output.

Did I mess up the wiring, or is it still just the pickups being set wrong?

[luknfur]

Not enough info but it's probably just how the pups are. What are the replacement pickups?

The pups should balance in OEM - otherwise it would be a design flaw.

[elpelotero]

seymour duncan AJB5's with an STC3a preamp...

I'm also noticing B string isn't very deep like it used to be. I must be doing something wrong...

I don't know what though because I have the pickups really close to the strings...about 3-4 millimeters away each.

BTW, what's OEM?

[meev992]

that's really odd

bump

and it's a shame too, since it's a warwick.

how were the original pups?

[elpelotero]

the originals were very balanced all around. The B sounded meaty and the G had some punch. I'm not sure if they were factor setup because I'm the second owner.

Maybe it's just the way these pickups are? I really doubt it though...these things are high output.

[jdombrow]

Perhaps the replacement pickups are designed for different string spacing then the originals.

[luknfur]

OEM: literally original equipment manufacturer but, as typically applied in these forums, original as designed.

Those are active pups and to my knowledge the same as the Steve Baileys a pair of which I have. Judging by the drag of a pup screw they have a blade pole so spacing is not an issue. You can see my take on them in FAQ Dimento's J pup experiment. They aren't installed now but I don't recall any issues reading strings (but it's been a while). That review would say.

Normally active pups you can't place too close to strings but wouldn't hurt to drop them down and see what you get. Passive pups too close to the strings can have a similar effect to what you're describing. On the other hand, although it's unusual for pups not to have balanced output, some pups are that way and when it does happen typically the G & D are effected as you describe.

Strings may have an effect but that's not something I've messed with. I would do a search for "whatever strings you use" in the strings forum in a thread titled "what kind of strings do you use." You probably would have had issue with the MEC's if it were strings but it's a possibility.

I would definitely email Duncan.

[Searcy]

Originally Posted by elpelotero

the originals were very balanced all around. The B sounded meaty and the G had some punch

Sounds great. Why not just put the originals back in?

[adam on bass]

Pickups can be defective. I had this same problem with one of my Sadowsky's. Take'em back and get a new set if possible.

[meev992]

Originally Posted by jdombrow

Perhaps the replacement pickups are designed for different string spacing then the originals.

this would explain why my beater bass doesn't sound so great. The D string is slightly out of alignment.

[elpelotero]

Originally Posted by Searcy

Sounds great. Why not just put the originals back in?

these have a ton more growl, which is what I was after. I know I can get them to work, I just haven't figured it out yet. I'll probably call Duncan in a couple of days.

[mntngrown]

I ordered those too, but don't have em yet. The SD website shows the outside limit for string spacing, and says you can use em for a 4 string, so Luknfur is no doubt right that they have a continuous bar, blade etc, and your spacing should be OK. The website says P-NUT and the bassist for George Strait have used these in Warwicks. Give SD a call. Maybe the wiring, or pots?

[GlennW]

If you've already raised the G and D side and they're still quieter than the other strings you could try lowering the pickup under the loud strings to balance the output and turn up your amp. Reverse psychology.

[mntngrown]

Just an update. I put mine in the 5 string and used the existing, pots and everything in the cavity. Sounds pretty balanced to me, and improved the weak B string which is what I was doing it for. Good Luck.