Hi, I have a Yamaha BB605 5 string active bass, which has factory fited yamaha J type pickups. The bass although active, is generally passive, with volume, pickup blend, treble boost/cut and bass cut/boost. The active part, is an on/off switch, and ONLY applies to a mid sweep control. The pickups sound fine, but, are a bit weak, but pretty versatile sound wise, and I'd like to upgrade them. Trouble is, I don't know WHAT to upgrade to, or at all. I play rock most of the time. Any suggestions would be appreciated, and any issues regarding current config when replacing would be appreciated. I'm a bass player of 20+ years, but, I'm a plug n play type of guy. I've never replaces/mucked about with a bass before. I love the feel and everything about the bass. Just trying to improve it. Thanks Dougie
Before buying new pickups, I would try to raise the heights of the ones you have. If you like the tone and just want more output, I would try that first. If you wind up replacing them, I would look into Fender and Basslines. Hope this helps.
I had a Yamaha 5 string a few years back. I found the J style pickups in that to be like yours-weak, and thin sounding. Get yourself a set of Nordstrand J style P/U's for 5 string, and you'll be happy as a clam IMHO.
