Steinberger Synapse EMG ignoring G & D strings

[lowbassgroove]

Just got a used Steinberger Synapse. Yes, ebay. Bass plays great. I've never had a Steinberger before but after about an hour of playing, I'm really connecting with it.

Trouble is, the EMG doesn't seem to be picking up the G & D strings. B, E, A - no problem. Piezo: all five strings. EMG: only B, E, A.

Does anyone have any ideas?

 

[DavidRavenMoon]

It's a split coil pickup like a P bass. The pickup must be bad. One coil is not working. You will have to replace it.

 

[lowbassgroove]

Thank you! Without cracking it open I was beginning to think that might be the case. I can see this happening with a P Bass split coil. Thank you again!

 

[DavidRavenMoon]

I would contact EMG... I don't know what kind of warrantee they have, but that bass can't be that old.

That's probably an EMG-40P5.

 

[lowbassgroove]

Another good suggestion. I've been playing electric since the early '80's and I've never had a pickup go bad. I wonder what they'll say

Anyone know a good source for EMGs if they say "too bad, so sad..."?

 

[DavidRavenMoon]

Anyone know a good source for EMGs if they say "too bad, so sad..."?

I've got a used one that's in good working order.

 

[lowbassgroove]

I might need to take you up on that. Thank you! I just don't know if it could be the pot as the Synapse has a center detent pot that allows you to dial in all Piezo, all EMG, or a blend of them both. Someone handier than me with electronics may need to get in there with a multi-meter. If that doesn't make sense then maybe it is just the pickup.

 

[lowbassgroove]

Hey, I just checked out your site. Very nice stuff! I've recently just joined Talk Bass Forums and it's already worth it!

From your experience, is there any chance it's that pot I was referring to? Otherwise I may need the used 40P5. (or an SGD replacement...)

 

[DavidRavenMoon]

Thanks!

The two coils in the EMG are wired in parallel to the internal preamp. So if one coil has failed, it's inside the pickup, not the result of a pot or something.

I'll send you a PM.

 

[lowbassgroove]

Then this should be a real easy swap. I'd like to make arrangements for the used 40P5. Or alternatively, I never did get overly excited about any bass I ever played with an EMG. I like a warm nasaly bass tone from a fretless. Do you offer an alternative?

 

[DavidRavenMoon]

Do you offer an alternative?

I do! I sent you a PM.