I have a GIO series Ibanez 4 string with pj pups. I'm using Steve Harris flats which have increased the quality of the tone tremendously, but now am trying to decide on a good set of active pups to go with. I'm just a beginner so I know a lot of the sound issue is caused by my inexperience, but the added sustain would be nice with a set of actives. I don't have a problem with doing a little Luther work so going to soap bars wouldn't be out of the question. I'm mostly into metal, so I'm looking for an aggressive growl. Thx for ur help.
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Old question asked again.
- Thread starter easymoney903
- Start date
There are actually plenty of PJ setup pups that will fit perfectly into your bass. The best way to go about it is with a full electronics switch: pups AND preamp. For your hardcore tone, I'd suggest EMG's or DiMarzio's. The pre is a bit more flexible. I use a Bartolini pre, but you can just as easily do Aguilar or any other high quality brand.
Active pickups (or an active preamp, which is what you probably mean) isn't necessarily going to add sustain. A good bass with a good setup and new/newish strings will do a lot more for you.
I have looked at the EMG's and like the ease of instillation, but have read some good and some bad reviews. I have also been looking at the Duncan quarter pounders and also the Bart's. on the Bart's I've been more impressed with the soap bars (MK1). Like I stated earlier its a low end bass so I'm not opposed to Frankensteining it lol. I have been told by a few people that if I go EMG pups I should also use the matching eq.
If you like Bart MK1's...which aren't really Barts.. you will be blown away by a real set of Bartolinis!
And yes, they are passive..like most other pickups. If you must have active pickups, you're looking at EMG.
And yes, they are passive..like most other pickups. If you must have active pickups, you're looking at EMG.
