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Drop Aero type 1 Jazz pickups into JB-2?

Discussion in 'G&L Bass Forum' started by bassclef29, Jul 3, 2008.

  1. Jul 3, 2008 #1
    bassclef29

    bassclef29

    May 30, 2005
    I have a USA JB-2 which I adore for its ergonomics, sustain and overall warmth. Nevertheless, I'm under the impression I can improve its tone by dropping in a set of Aero Type 1 Jazz pickups.

    Does one of you G&L freaks know if the Aeros are an easy fit into a JB-2? Also, if you have experience doing what I plan to do, I'd love to hear the results from your perspective.

    To fill out the picture, I play mostly funk/rock, soul and blues music, fingerstyle. I tried flatwounds on the JB-2, but have gone back to roundwounds. In any event, I'll be hanging on to the stock pickups.

    Thanks,
    Joe in San Diego, CA
     
  2. Jul 4, 2008 #2
    Joebone

    Joebone Supporting Member

    Oct 31, 2005
    California Republic
    I put Nordstrand single-coils into a JB-2 that had non-original and damaged pickups. The Nordys sounded great! Sold the bass to a friend who is gigging regularly -- and very happily -- with it. I have Nordstrands in a P-J installation as well, and am very happy. Can't compare with the Fralins, but am certain that switching out to high-grade (and slightly warmer) single-coils can take the JB-2 to a higher level - I also once had another JB-2 with original pickups, and the Nordstrands seem to get more of the sound of the bass -- and less of your left-hand fingering -- into the room.

    I should add that the Nordstrands get that chimey bell-like character, with the slightest undertone of grit, that defines single-coil in my mind - I don't think the original JB-2 pickups quite get there, for some reason.
     
  3. Jul 4, 2008 #3
    bassclef29

    bassclef29

    May 30, 2005
    Joebone,

    Appreciate the response.

    I agree, stock JB-2 pickups don't quite get there. It's a bit frustrating, because IMO they don't miss by all that much. Just enough to make me look for the next step up...!

    Though I'm leaning to Aeros, Nordstrands are on the short list and it's great to get hands-on confirmation of my direction.

    Cheers,
    Joe
     
  4. Jul 4, 2008 #4
    Wwolof

    Wwolof

    Jul 25, 2006
    Adelaide, South Australia
    *subscribes to thread*
     
  5. Jul 7, 2008 #5
    Wwolof

    Wwolof

    Jul 25, 2006
    Adelaide, South Australia
    *kills thread dead*