Help me decide - Nordstrand NP4s?

You might consider a change of strings first before shelling out more money. I use the Quarter Pounder in my old P and don't find it too agressive at all. But I use Thomastic flatwound strings and just cut back the high end a bit. I also use a very small amount of foam muting under the strings at the bridge. And I do like that "vintage" P bass sound.

Lots of people swear by the Nordstrands. I haven't tried them myself but I don't doubt they are excellent pickups. I just don't know if the pickups are the root of your problem.

As far as upgrading a cheap bass--I think if it plays well and you like it, why not? If I were to buy a new Fender P I'd upgrade the pickups for sure.

 

You may want to try a new set of strings that has a vintage sound. If you don't care for flatwounds, a set of Fender (Superbass I think) strings sound vintage, and they are roundwound. However; if you are ready for new pups, here is some info. I have the NP4, Fender 62 RI, stock, and tried out my friend's SD Anti II for a while. Here is some feedback. All of these pups sound good. However; there are some diffs. The stock Fender pup was not quite as loud on the outer E & G strings, but still ok. The 62' RI sound vintage w/ just a tad of rawness that sounds good. The SD II has just a slight more bass than 62 RI and is a little more clearer sounding. The NP4 is very clear/smooth sounding and has a very full, but controled low end. It has a bit more output than the others. The NP4 may be too clear for some, but where I agree with other users is the fact that it sits very nice in the mix in a live situation. My wife said she could here the notes the last time I played in church. Find other peps opinoins as well- good luck.

 

Sunbeams are really bright in the upper mids, which could make a P sound honky.

Try some flats.