New to J pickups

[JFace]

I purchased an SX P/J, and I'm not digging the sound from the J pickup. I've researched the many different brands, and my head is spinning from the hundred different opinions of them. So, I thought I'd explain what I'm looking for to help narrow my options. Here's what I'm looking for:

-Output levels to be comparable to the P pickup
-Excellent clarity and harmonics for finger use
-High end zing that can be rolled off when needed

Low end isn't so important. Apparently I have heavy fingers and have never had a problem with bass. I really need something clear and punchy for fingerstyle playing. I like the P/J combination, and I think the J pickup will be pivotal in achieving my desired tone.

What J pickups do you think can match these needs? Since it's an SX, I don't want to put in a super expensive set of pickups.

If you have any suggestions for a replacement P to match the J suggestions, those are welcome as well.

Thanks!

 

[4Mal]

The Lawrence J-45 and P-46 are a very well balanced pair. Quiet and full range. Very clear so the hi's will really shine through if you want them to. Highly recommended, particularly for the dough. The downside is - they are custom. You can't buy 'em today, install them tomorrow. You have to call them and get them ordered and it can take a couple of weeks as they are a small shop. Super good quality control though and if there is an issue - they just get it handled.

I'm really high on the VintageVibe stuff but - it's more dough and while I have a set of J's installed and a P - I haven't installed a PJ set. Individually - that is a P Bass pickup and a set of J's - these may be the best vintage style Fender pickups I've experienced. They are really, really, nice...

 

[Mystic Michael]

DiMarzio Ultra Jazz. I think DiMarzio makes a P pickup that's comparable as well...

MM

 

[pdjb98]

I just put a Seymour Duncan Basslines Quarter Pound at the bridge space in my Jazz Bass. Gotta say it really makes my bass growl now. Breathes a ton of new life into the thing. I would describe it like what you want too, sizzles at the top end and really pushes everything else though too. Not boomy at all compared to the stock pickup. One thing I might worry about is output level considering its a fairly hot pickup. However, it seems to do fine with my stock American Jazz bass pickup at the bridge. I have adjusted their heights though. They can be had for 57 bucks shipped last time I checked an online eBay store from Kentucky had them listed. I bought mine from the evil GC and got pretty lucky I think to find one with some solder on one wire so they gave it to me for 45 bucks!

 

[butchblack]

DiMarzio Ultra Jazz. I think DiMarzio makes a P pickup that's comparable as well...

MM

I just put a set of DiMarzio 126 PJ into a Fernandes. Great sounding pair and they're cheap ($100 from best bass gear) You may want to go with a .1 capacitor instead of the .047 for a bit more highs. They have adjustable poles, so between that and pick up height you can balance the volume so that both will be equally loud.