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Bartolini 72MV5EK vs. original pickup

Discussion in 'Pickups & Electronics [BG]' started by AaPee, Nov 26, 2001.

  1. Nov 26, 2001 #1
    AaPee

    AaPee

    Apr 30, 2001
    Finland, Hankasalmi
    Hi!

    Am I able to replace my original Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay5 pickup for Bartolini 72MV5EK pickup without any difficult wiring inside control cavity? And further more, could I install this possible Bartoli so that I would be able to use it in both series/parallel-ways? I mean by original StingRay5 switch... Did anybody get my point?

    Do you guys think there is any sense to replace original pickup for Bartolini? Will I lose my tasty MM-sound?

    All the best, AaPee
     
  2. Nov 27, 2001 #2
    geshel

    geshel

    Oct 2, 2001
    Seattle
    I thought it was the Sterlings that had the series/parallel switch?

    Anyway, I *think* it is a drop-in replacement. Which means no "difficult" wiring to do, just wiring, which may be difficult! :) I don't know for sure whether or not it is four-conductor, so you can rearrange the coils with the switch, but my guess is that it is.

    Also if you get it and can't figure it out, a local guitar tech should be able to do it for you for not much money.
     
  3. Nov 27, 2001 #3
    geshel

    geshel

    Oct 2, 2001
    Seattle
    Oh, as for sound, I have heard that the Bartolini is a bit less aggressive than the originals or the Seymour Duncan replacements. But I think it should still have a Stingray sound - depends on which parts of that sound you like.

    Also, if I may ask, why do you want to replace the original if you like the sound?
     
  4. Nov 28, 2001 #4
    AaPee

    AaPee

    Apr 30, 2001
    Finland, Hankasalmi
    Thank you for your reply!

    StingRay5 does also have switch like Sterling. "Normal", four string StingRay doesn't have that option (pity). But, anyway, wiring seems to be quite easy. I can handle soldering iron and also understands something about this kind of electronics. I suppose, now the most important question is; am I able to enhance my sound by that Bartolini?

    I must think about it very objectively...

    All the best!
     
  5. Dec 1, 2001 #5
    fat-bottom

    fat-bottom Guest

    Apr 2, 2001
    Portland, Oregon
    I did exactly the same thing you are talking about. I didn't care for it. The Bart is smoother, like playing with a bit of compression, but it does not have the bite Stringrays are known for.

    I would keep the original pickup and look at different preamps. Bart makes an NTMB which will work well with the 'Ray. Also check out the Duncan preamp.