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Active 5 String Bass Pickups?

Discussion in 'Pickups & Electronics [BG]' started by i am n00bz, Jul 18, 2017.

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  1. Jul 18, 2017 #1
    i am n00bz

    i am n00bz Guest

    Jul 18, 2017
    Hello!

    I got an ESP Ltd. D-5 a few months back and have been meaning to upgrade the active pickups currenty installed. I am going for a modern metal sound and would like any recommendations on pickup choices.
    I am also planning on purchasing a Darkglass Tone Capsule preamp to replace the stock one currently in the bass.

    Please link me any good choices! Thanks!
     
  2. Jul 18, 2017 #2
    two fingers

    two fingers Opinionated blowhard. But not mad about it. Inactive

    Feb 7, 2005
    Eastern NC USA
    Welcome to TalkBass!!!

    I am not familiar with that exact model. However, keep this in mind. Most "Active" basses are actually active preamps and passive pickups. In other words, the preamp runs on a battery (or two) but the pickups can function without one.

    What that means is this. If you are going to swap out all the electronics, you can literally choose any pickups you want that fit the routes in the body.....active or passive.....doesn't matter. The preamp will handle the active part.

    You mind posting a pic? Then we can see the routes.
     
  3. Jul 18, 2017 #3
    ddnidd1

    ddnidd1 Supporting Member

    Mar 31, 2003
    Southern California Coast
    That bass has Passive pickups.

    From the ESP site:

    "Neck PU - ESP Designed SB-5N
    Bridge PU - ESP Designed SB-5B
    Electronics - Passive P.U. w/ Active EQ"
     
  4. Jul 18, 2017 #4
    two fingers

    two fingers Opinionated blowhard. But not mad about it. Inactive

    Feb 7, 2005
    Eastern NC USA
    I looked up the bass. Unless I am mistaken, they are standard "DC40" style pickups .....only 5 string. Measure the holes to make sure.

    If the measurements work out, look into these. I just had a bass made that uses one at the bridge. Great pickup!
    NYC Bass

    The aforementioned bass.
    20170628_084841.jpg
     
  5. Jul 18, 2017 #5
    i am n00bz

    i am n00bz Guest

    Jul 18, 2017
    Your guys' input has been very useful! Sorry for the delay on the response, but I actually came across another thread on here with someone asking about pickups on an ESP model with the same dimensions as mine! I will consider the SD's when I look at the sizing. Thanks!