Is there really much different between the Model P and the SPB-3

[Right_Butterscotch64]

The SD site says its a high output pickup but okay...

 

[NKBassman]

Luckily for you, both of these pickups can be found for cheap. Try them both!

 

[Technotitclan]

Both are good pickups, but I prefer the Model P because of the mid scoop in the SPB-3. To my ears, both roll off equal amounts of treble, though.

^ This is spot on. They are both really great pickups. To my ears though the SD's were a little lifeless compared to the Model P due to the scoop. However in a band setting the lifelessness really disappears. They are both great pickups and i went through this very issue and I feel for you. I end up choosing the Dimarzio because I play alone quite a bit and found the Model P sounded better solo than the SD's. I honestly think you can't go wrong with either. If you find yourself boosting more of your low mid as of late then the model P is probably the right choice since it has stronger mids.

Someone has already touched on your cabs. The 210/118 combo I'd imagine will create a very odd tone. Have you tried playing your bass through other speaker configurations?

 

[Arvin]

If I were aiming for an aggressive P-bass tone, I'd choose the Model P. In my experience with both pickups, the SPB-3 can sound very good (especially on a bass strung with flats), but is not as versatile as the Model P. Again, in my experience, the Model P has a broader palette of tones available.

 

[prater]

Someone has already touched on your cabs. The 210/118 combo I'd imagine will create a very odd tone. Have you tried playing your bass through other speaker configurations?

It is a unique tone but i like it a lot. The 18 is PA sub and has a unique voicing to it that provides plenty of thump, roundness, sustain, and a growl all its own. The 210 has a more traditional bass sound with a faster attack, more prominent highs and a tighter punch. Together i think they compliment each other very well. But this is the pickups section.

I think I won't be using either of these pickups. I've pretty much decided to go with a Bill Lawrence P46.