I have a 4-string passive US hot rod P-bass that sounds Great, and a 5-string P-deluxe (9v) that just doesn't sound as "natural". I have gotten so used to playing a 5 that I usually play the Deluxe, though it just does not have that sweet passive P tone. Is it possible or advisable to wire in a passive by-pass switch or eliminate the preamp altogether in the P deluxe to more closely duplicate the passive p sound? Has anyone tried this or have a better solution to this problem? Thanks, Spoon
I have never done it myself, though I thought about when I had my Zone. I do know of two players in my area that converted their active basses to passive and were quite happy with the results. You might try asking in the setup or luthier areas to see how this is done. Both the players here paid an experienced luthier to perform the conversion. Dan
Thanks for your reply. My problem could be easily solved if Fender would offer a 5-string passive P-bass. I would buy it, and ride off into the sunset. The Roscoe Beck 5 is cool, but it ain't no P! Spoon
