Hey John Easters ... I posted this separately and then found this J East preamp club thread, so I'll post my question here too. Thanks.
I have a 2004 MIM Jazz Deluxe. I like it ok, but it's pretty generic sounding and I have other J basses too that sound really great with more character ('84 Roscoe Beck IV, '07 Lull M4V).
I've never done a preamp change on a bass but these look farily straight forward. After reading a few reviews here on TB, the J Retro sounds like a solid option. When I look at the J East website I walk away a little confused as to the right option to pick. Can you more experienced folks give me a clue ? The original pre on the Fender is active only. I'd love to get something in there with a active/passive option too.
One more question. The Fender has it's stock 2000's "noiseless" J pickups. After putting in the J East pre, will I inevitably feel like the pups are not up to scratch ?
thanks for your input!