I bought a second hand Ibanez SR 1300 recently as a backup & I really like it. Problem I’ve found recently is that the pickups create a chorus type sound, especially in the upper register. Did a little bit of research and turns out that the magnets in these pickups are strong and cause this issue if set high. I’ve had to lower the pickup height down a lot to get rid of this issue. So, my personal issue now is that I like my pickups set pretty high so I can feel them under my fingers when I play and now I can’t do this. Any solution or should I consider getting different pickups ? Aguilar DCB’s looks possible as they can be set hight and are flat, like a ramp. Hope I can find a solution without spending more cash ? Cheers.
I had that chorusing effect with my DCBs at about the same height as with my Nordstrand Big Blades. If you dig the under the fingers feel, perhaps get a ramp made? That option is cheaper than new pickups, too!
Thanks for the reply. So, any pickups that can be set high without the chorus effect ? I've always has the feel of a pickup under my fingers & 25+ years of this had made it feel horrible without.
I'm right there with you. I recently got a bass with really hot pickups....one of which is a Nordy. I had to slam them way down to get rid of the chorus. It also took me a while to get used to the lowered P bass pickup not being as steady of an anchor under my thumb. I'm with the other's. Try a ramp. I'm having mine made as we speak.
Before replacing pickups, make sure that your string is not twisted. Fully loosen any string that is chorusing and re-tighten paying attention that the ball doesn't twist. I have had this effect on strings with a tapered end when the taper ends over the pickup. Big Singles are hot, but I don't think they are hot enough to pull on the strings unless really close. I think as long as you are 1/8"+ away, you should be ok.