Possible pickup change out

[Bassmantd]

I have a G&L JB5 with a set of EMG single-coils installed with a Audere 3 band pre. I am looking for something cleaner and smoother sounding. I play contemporary Christian music and the sound I am getting seems to be a little to jazzy and light for what I do. I play fingerstyle and don't typically do any slap or anything fancy. I know that opinions on things like this can vary, so let me know not only what you would do, but why. Thanks

 

[jd56hawk]

Have you tried tapewounds?

 

[Slater]

Well, it’s going to be hard to get cleaner than EMG, but if you want smoother, have a look at Bartolini.

 

[Scott Baiowulf]

Cleanest jazz pickups I’ve ever played are Lakland Hansons. I don’t know if they sell them new but I’ve seen sets on Reverb in the ~$80 range pretty frequently.

 

[Bassmantd]

What do y’all think about the Nordstrand blades?

 

[Bassmantd]

Have you tried tapewounds?

I haven’t. What kind of difference do you get with them?

 

[jd56hawk]

A bit smoother than flats but they can get very expressive.
GHS black tapewounds, that is. I have them on my L2000 and another set for the SB-2 I plan on buying.
I won't be buying any other strings in the future.