Maybe you're right. I played it tonight during a recording session. With the amp at the same volume, it had a louder output than my MIM Jazz with stock pickups. As far as feel goes, its hard to tell because I haven't played on brand new roundwounds for many years and the Black Beauties it is strung have a great sound but seem thinner than normal strings.
I predict that if you do, it will grow on you in a big way, especially the more you play it in a band setting.