Nordstrand MM4.4 in sweet spot, Big Split in neck position?

[KrisCMS]

I've been playing a mediocre bass for a long time and I'm finally having a few new ones built. I'm not terribly knowledgeable of pickup intricacies, so thought I would ask people smarter than me.

After reading many descriptions and reviews I am tentatively planning on, for the new 4 string (34" scale), putting a MM4.4 in the bridge position/sweet spot, and a Big Single in the neck position. Likely will use a Nordstrand pre-amp as well. My thought is that this would give a good overall sound, and would be pretty versatile.

Good idea or bad idea? Thanks in advance.

 

[DWBass]

Personally, I don't think I would. I'd be more apt to load a standard J in the neck position.

 

[maurilio]

It's partially a good idea, but I would not use a BS combined with a MM (or any humcancelling) pup. You'll not be able to have a silent (no nise) mode in any position.
A BSp, NP or NJs (any humcan) would be a functional/better combo.
I did on several 5 strings with good results, if it is what you are after.

M

 

[BruceWane]

Your thread title says "Big Split" but your post says "Big Single".

Of those two, the big split would be the better choice - as mentioned above, a true single coil that is not paired with a second reverse polarity/reverse wound single coil is going to hum constantly.

The Big Split will get you ~95% of a Big Single sound, just a tiny bit more "polite", with no hum.

Alternately, you could go with a traditional jazz form split coil, the NJ4SE or NJ4SV. Same kinda thing here, these will get very close to a vintage jazz single coil without the hum.

All humbuckers, regardless of coil layout, will lose at least a tiny bit of high frequency response compared to a similar form single coil. Just a tiny bit less "raw", but the benefit is that they're totally quiet. Especially important if you're planning to do any recording.

 

[KrisCMS]

Thanks for the responses. Exactly the sort of input I was looking for.