pickup choice for Roadworn P-bass - more modern sounding

[NickFromNY]

I just picked up a roadworn P-bass and I am interested in a pick up swap. I also have an AVRI 62 Pbass, so I have the classic 60s P-bass sound. I was looking for something a little more modern sounding for the Roadworn. Something that is a good, versitle, all around pick up, with increased clarity in tone. I don't play hard rock... more classic rock/90s/danceable.. not looking for a hot, overdriven tone.

I was looking at Lollar and Fralins.. maybe Dunkins... Any input would be welcome.

 

[sikamikanico]

Chances are most of them will sound similar - between string, technique, and EQ change/adjustment, minor pickup design differences imo/ime get lost. In that sense, you can just keep the current pickup and maybe swap strings?

That said, on the pickup side, you might want to look into different P designs, e.g. ceramic/neo magnets, big pole pieces, angled poles (ala Nordstrand), blades, whatever Lace is doing, etc... Maybe even go active? All these are more radical departure from the classic (vintage) P, towards their own ideas of what "more modern sounding" is

One cheap and popular pickup here is Wilde/Bill Laurence P46. Maybe start there?

 

[Torrente Cro]

This is my favourite P bass configuration, all sounds under one switch ;-)

 

[FronTowardEnemy]

I don't know how modern sounding it is, but I have a EMG GZR in my classic 50s Lacquer. Definitely an upgrade (IMO) from the stock one.

I don't think there is a better sounding P pickup than this. It also has the best sounding tone sweep I have ever heard.

YMMV

 

[Texan]

Bill Lawrence P-46, often forgotten, but incredible. Warm, full, punchy and modern, roll the tone back and you'll get vintage tones.

 

[96tbird]

Bill Lawrence P-46, often forgotten, but incredible. Warm, full, punchy and modern, roll the tone back and you'll get vintage tones.

Yep. And $60.

 

[Yahboy]

Dimarzio Wild power + SS round + Smile shape EQ .

 

[DavePlaysBass]

I put a NP4 in my Classic 50s P Bass along with a high mass bridge (Gotoh 201). Eventually I concluded the result was too hi-fi for me and I eventually went back to the stock pickup and vintage bridge.