Mustang Bass Pick-up swap?

[michael5959]

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone has experience with swapping out the pick-up on a Mustang Bass, to a P-bass pick up. Do you get a significant improvement in sound quality/performance & is it worth it ? Also, considering swapping it out for a Darkstar P/U. Would dropping in a single Darkstar make the bass susceptible to hum issues?

Any insight or advice is appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike.

 

[Peck_Time]

Hi, the mustang bass already has a (very good) small P pickup in it. A standard longscale P (or any darkstar) pup will not fit without routing.
Try some different strings if you don't like the sound you're getting.

Routing for a different pickup will destroy the resale value. Best to sell the Mustang and buy a bass you like more.

Edit: Maybe you mean Squier 'Bronco', in which case search the pickups forum, as there have been lots of posts about new pickups.

 

[michael5959]

I ask because I came across a '77 in pretty good condition, with the original case, but the original split coil p/u has been swapped out for a p-pickup. I can get it for $575-$600. Is that a fair deal?

Mike.

 

[DeanT]

That's a bit high for a modded '70s Mustang. In my opinion, that kind of a modification destroys the Mustang's character and value. To me it's worth no more than $300.

You can pick up a new reissue for about $550.

 

[iplaybasstexas]

not worth it. A mustang with a p-bass pickup makes the mustang another bass trying to sound like the p and destroys the bass' resale, uniqueness and body. Don't buy it.