Best Pickups For Bass Guitar (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the perfect pickups for your bass guitar, it's important to consider various factors before making your choice. Different pickups produce different sounds based on their construction and materials, and the type of music you play might require specific tones.
One important factor to consider is the type of music you play. Pickups vary in their response to different styles of music, with some being better suited for rock or metal and others for jazz or blues. Additionally, the number of strings on your bass can also affect the type of pickups that work best.
Another factor to consider is the construction of the pickups. Some are made using single coils, while others use double coils. Single coils produce a brighter and clearer sound, while double coils offer a warmer and fuller tone. The size and type of magnets used in the pickups also affect the sound.
When deciding on the right pickups for your bass guitar, it’s essential to ask some critical questions. Do you want a vintage or modern sound? Are you prioritizing tone over sustain or comfort? What type of gigs or performances will you be using this bass for? By considering these factors, you’ll find the best pickups to suit your individual needs and playing style. So why not start searching for the perfect set of pickups to breathe new life into your bass guitar?
10 Best Pickups For Bass Guitar
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1
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This product is ideal for enhancing the sound quality of bass guitars with its double coil pickup technology.
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2
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This product is ideal for enhancing electric bass sound and adjusting the tone with active or passive equalizer settings.
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3
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This product is ideal for upgrading the sound quality of a 4-string JB electric guitar.
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4
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Ideal for upgrading and customizing a PB style electric bass with powerful, traditional precision 4 string pickups and prewired harness.
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5
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This product is ideal for replacing and upgrading the pickups in a Music Man style electric bass guitar.
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6
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This product is ideal for upgrading the neck pickup of a 4 string Jazz Bass guitar.
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7
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Ideal for enhancing the sound quality of an electric bass guitar with a neck position humbucker pickup.
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8
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It is ideal for holding and replacing batteries in guitars and basses that have active pickups.
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9
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Ideal for enhancing sound quality and volume input of 4 string bass instruments with color-coded conductor system.
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10
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Ideal for enhancing the sound quality and versatility of a bass guitar with precision and power.
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1. Bqlzr Black Ceramic Magnet 5 String M Bass Humbucker Double Coil Pickup For Bass Pack Of 2
Looking to enhance the sound of your bass guitar? Look no further than this powerful bass pickup! Designed specifically for five-string bass guitars, it's the perfect way to supercharge your instrument and take your playing to the next level.
One of the standout features of this bass pickup is its thunderous low end. With a resistance of 12k and a plastic clamp, you can expect deep, rich bass tones that will really make your playing stand out. But that's not all – the mid and high tones are also incredibly articulate, giving you a well-rounded sound that's perfect for any style of music.
If you've ever struggled with muddy lows or plain mid/high tones, this bass pickup is the solution you've been looking for. With its 9.5mm big voice point, it's designed to deliver clear, powerful sound that will make your bass guitar really sing.
2. Kaish Pre-Wired 3 Band Active & Passive Eq Equalizer Electric Bass Preamp Circuit
Introducing the Volume B50K and Pickup MN250K, a high-quality bass preamp that promises to deliver exceptional sound quality and performance. Designed with precision and expertise, this preamp boasts a range of impressive features and specifications that are sure to impress any bass enthusiast.
With Bass, Middle, and Treble controls, this preamp offers an impressive range of tone-shaping capabilities. The Bass control allows for +/- 14dB adjustment at 80Hz with a B100K potentiometer, while the Middle control offers +/- 8dB adjustment at 900Hz with a B100K potentiometer. The Treble control delivers a +/- 23dB adjustment at 3-7KHz with a B100K potentiometer. These controls are designed to allow for a wide range of tonal variations, making it perfect for a variety of playing styles and genres.
In terms of wiring, P1 should be wired with the neck pickup positive, while P2 should be wired with the bridge pickup positive. GND should be wired with the two pickups negative. This wiring configuration ensures optimal performance and sound quality, allowing you to get the most out of your bass playing.
What sets this preamp apart from others on the market is its superior quality. Unlike other preamps that are made in cheap factories, this preamp is designed with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring that you get the best possible sound quality and performance.
Please note that installation of this preamp may require the assistance of a local luthier if you are not familiar with bass circuitry. However, with its simple and straightforward wiring configuration, installation should be a breeze for anyone with basic knowledge of bass electronics.
3. Alnico 5 Bass Pickup Set For H-Style Guitars
Introducing the dual humbucker pickups that are compatible with the Fender Musicmaster four-string and Fender Jazz bass guitars. These pickups are made of high-quality materials, including alnico5 magnets and brass base, that make them durable, sturdy and aesthetically pleasing. Unlike other pickups that use plastic casings, these pickups have a more professional and polished look that enhances the overall appearance of the guitar.
The pickups are fully wax potted and vacuum sealed, which eliminates any unwanted feedback and noise. This feature ensures that the player experiences a smooth and uninterrupted sound quality while playing. Additionally, these pickups use shielded wire instead of the flimsy two-part wire, which further enhances the sound quality by eliminating any noise.
The frame size is 94.5*44.5mm/3.72*1.75inch, while the pickup size is 71.5*32mm/2.81*1.26inch. The resistance of these pickups is 12K, and the cable length of the neck and bridge pickups is 340mm/300mm, respectively. The distance between the outside pole pieces is 44mm/1.73inch. These parameters ensure that the pickups fit perfectly and work efficiently with the Fender Musicmaster four-string and Fender Jazz bass guitars.
The package includes one neck and one bridge pickup and eight mounting screws. The installation process is straightforward and easy to follow. These pickups are an excellent addition for anyone looking to enhance the sound quality and overall appearance of their Fender bass guitars.
4. Black P-Bass Pickup Harness Set: Powerful Precision
If you are looking to upgrade your PB bass guitar, the P Bass Humbucker Pickups may be just what you need. These pickups are specifically designed to fit 4 string PB bass guitars, including the 93 Korean Squier and Fernandez dimension 4x. They are also compatible for Squier Affinity PJ JB style electric bass and offer a punchy JB sound.
The covers of these pickups are made of durable ABS material, and they feature a ceramic magnet. Additionally, they are sealed with triple wax and vacuum sealed to prevent any unwanted feedback or noise. With classic tone and new Var-Gauss technology, these pickups offer a deep growl in the bass frequencies and smoother, well-defined treble sounds. The prewired harness with 250K pots allows for even smoother highs.
Measuring 70*27*14mm/2.76*1.06*0.55in and weighing 130g/4.59ounces, each double coil pickup features 4 flat pole pieces with a pole spacing of 28.5mm/1.12in. The color of the pickups is black.
The package includes 2 P Bass pickups, each with 2 potentiometers, 3 washers, 3 nuts, 4 springs, and screws. It is important to handle the flimsy mounting screws with care and use the correct sized screwdriver. A little soap on the threads before screwing them in can be helpful in preventing any issues, and it is important not to strip the heads of the screws.
5. Seymour Duncan Smb-4a Alnico Music Man Replacement Pickup – Black
Introducing the 4-string Bass Guitar Pickup with Alnico V Magnets in Black – the perfect addition to any bassist's collection. This pickup boasts high-quality materials and impressive specifications that are sure to enhance the sound of any bass guitar.
Crafted with Alnico V magnets, this pickup offers exceptional clarity and a warm, vintage tone that any bassist will appreciate. The magnets work together to provide a balanced and consistent sound, making it an ideal choice for bassists who demand precision and reliability in their sound.
The pickup's black finish ensures that it will look great on any bass guitar. Its sleek and stylish design is sure to impress, while its durable construction ensures that it will withstand the rigors of frequent use.
Whether you're a professional bassist or a beginner, this pickup is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their sound. With its easy-to-install design, you can quickly upgrade your bass guitar and start enjoying a richer, more powerful sound in no time.
6. Oripure Alnico 5 Jazz Bass Pickups Open Style Neck Pickup For 4 Strings Jazz Bass Guitar Part
The OriPure Alnico 5 open style Jazz Bass pickup is the perfect replacement for 4 string J Bass style electric guitars or any similar guitar. With its Alnico 5 magnets, it adds more focus and enhanced dynamics to the sound, making it an excellent addition to any musician's arsenal. The enamel-coated magnet wire ensures that the pickup delivers warm vintage-style tones that are sure to impress.
The neck pickup pole spacing measures at 63mm, with a resistance of 7.5-8.5K and an inductance of 3.5H. The fiber bobbin and braided cloth cables are sturdy and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance. The flush-mount polepieces produce even string response, which is essential for a smooth and consistent sound.
The OriPure Alnico 5 pickup is wax potted for squeal-free operation, ensuring a clean and clear sound that is free from any unwanted noise. The black color adds a sleek and stylish touch to any guitar. Each pickup comes with screws, springs, and a sponge mat, making installation a breeze.
7. Bqlzr 5 String Humbucker Neck Electric Bass Guitar Pickup Pack Of 2
Introducing the 5 String Humbucker Neck pickup, designed exclusively for use in 5-string guitars. The poles are strategically spaced to ensure optimal string-to-string balance and clarity of sound.
Featuring a wide mid and bright tone, this is a passive pickup that delivers exceptional performance. Please note, an active design is required for certain applications.
This high-quality pickup is hot and boasts excellent build quality. The 4 Conduct cable comes with a shield for added durability. Each package contains two pickups, but they can be used individually as needed.
This pickup features a dual coil design, ensuring superior sound quality and clarity. The resonant frequency is 4.3 KHz, delivering a rich, full-bodied sound that will take your playing to the next level.
The pickup dimensions are as follows: length about 101mm, width about 38mm, and height about 22.5mm. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the 5 String Humbucker Neck pickup is an excellent choice for any player looking to enhance their sound quality and overall performance.
8. Power Pak: Guitar Pickup Battery Holder
The ABS material used in this product is of high quality, making it a durable option for your guitar or bass. Its compact size, measuring 50mm long, 31.5mm wide, and 56.5mm high, means it won't take up too much space on your instrument. The package comes with two battery cases without contact pieces and mounting screws, ensuring you have everything you need to install it on your guitar or bass.
This battery case is designed to hold a flat-mounted 9v battery, making it suitable for active pickup guitars and basses. Its sturdy construction ensures that your battery is protected while in use, and the compact size of the case allows it to blend seamlessly into the overall design of your instrument.
Whether you're a professional musician or a hobbyist, this battery case is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and sturdy option to power their active pickup guitar or bass. Its compact size, durable construction, and easy installation make it a hassle-free addition to any instrument. With this battery case, you can rest assured that your instrument will stay powered and ready to play.
9. Colorized Bass Pickup With Zero Noise.
Introducing the Noiseless Good Balance pickup, perfect for achieving a balanced and clear sound when playing your guitar. This pickup measures approximately 102mm in length, 49mm in width, and 20mm in height, making it a suitable size for most guitar models.
The pickup features 4 conductors with a shield, which allows for multiple wiring configurations. The black and ground wires are joined together and serve as the ground wire. The remaining single wire is the hot wire, enabling a simple 2 wire hook up. If desired, a switch can be connected to the 2 unused wires and the hot wire to achieve single coil or humbucking sounds. Furthermore, using these two wires, there are several wiring options available to put the pickups in and out of phase.
The conductor wires are color-coded, with red representing the hot wire and black representing the neutral wire. Additionally, there is a white and green wire that are soldered together, joining the coils. Each coil has separate wires that connect to separate volume knobs. In total, the pickup consists of 2 coils with 4 wires.
While this is a passive pickup, it is possible to use it with an active preamp. To ensure proper connection and functionality, it is recommended to check for any damage inside the pickup and measure the resistance using a multimeter. The normal resistance for this pickup is around 12k ohms.
Finally, the pickup comes with approximately 1/4 inch of exposed wire to solder your connections, allowing for easy installation and customization. Whether you're a professional musician or a beginner, the Noiseless Good Balance pickup is a reliable and practical choice for enhancing your guitar's sound.
10. Emg Geezer Butler Signature Pj Bass Guitar Pickup Set
Introducing the Geezer Butler signature bass pickup set – a powerful and dynamic addition to your bass guitar. This passive pickup set boasts a vintage tone that is sure to impress even the most discerning musicians. The Geezer Butler signature bass pickup set features Alnico 5 poles and two custom wound split-coils that work together to produce a rich and full-bodied sound.
One of the standout features of this pickup set is its ability to eliminate the noise and hum that is often associated with early 70's bass pickups. This means that you can enjoy a clean and clear sound that is free from any unwanted interference.
The Geezer Butler signature bass pickup set also features a solderless install system, which makes installation a breeze. This means that you can easily upgrade your bass guitar without needing any special tools or expertise.
Best Pickups For Bass Guitar FAQs
What are the best active pickups for a bass guitar?
When it comes to choosing the best active pickups for a bass guitar, there are a few factors to consider. Some popular options include the EMG 35DC, Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound for Bass, and Aguilar DCB pickups.
The EMG 35DC is known for its clarity and high output, making it a great choice for metal and rock bassists. The Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound for Bass is another popular choice, with a fat and punchy tone that is well-suited for funk and R&B styles. The Aguilar DCB pickups are also highly regarded for their clear and articulate sound.
Ultimately, the best active pickups for a bass guitar will depend on your personal preferences and the style of music you play. It's important to try out different options and listen to samples to determine what sounds best for your playing style. Additionally, consulting with a professional guitar technician can also provide valuable insights and recommendations.
What are the best passive pickups for a bass guitar?
When it comes to choosing the best passive pickups for a bass guitar, there are several factors to consider, such as the musical genre, playing style, and personal preferences. Some of the most popular and highly regarded passive pickups for bass guitars include the Seymour Duncan SPB-3 Quarter Pound, DiMarzio DP123 Model J, EMG-HZ P Bass, Bartolini PBF-55, and Aguilar AG 4J-HC.
The Seymour Duncan SPB-3 Quarter Pound is a high-output pickup that produces a fat and punchy tone, making it ideal for rock and heavy metal music. The DiMarzio DP123 Model J, on the other hand, provides a clear and articulate sound that suits jazz and funk playing styles. The EMG-HZ P Bass offers a warm and balanced tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres, while the Bartolini PBF-55 delivers a full and rich sound with excellent clarity and definition. The Aguilar AG 4J-HC is another popular choice among bass players due to its tight and focused sound with plenty of low-end punch.
Ultimately, the best passive pickups for a bass guitar depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is recommended to try out different pickups and consult with a professional before making a final decision.
What are the best pickups for a five-string bass guitar?
When it comes to choosing the best pickups for a five-string bass guitar, there are several factors to consider. The type of music you play, the tone you want to achieve, and your playing style can all influence your decision.
One popular option for five-string basses is the dual-coil humbucker pickup. It produces a warm, full-bodied sound and is great for genres like rock, metal, and funk. Another option is the single-coil pickup, which offers a brighter, more articulate tone and is ideal for genres like jazz and blues.
Some of the top brands for bass pickups include Seymour Duncan, EMG, and Nordstrand. These companies offer a range of pickups to suit different playing styles and tonal preferences. It's important to do your research and listen to samples of different pickups before making a decision.
Ultimately, the best pickups for a five-string bass guitar will depend on your personal preferences and the style of music you play. It's always a good idea to try out different pickups and see which one works best for you.
What are the best pickups for a fretless bass guitar?
Choosing the best pickups for a fretless bass guitar can be a subjective and personal decision that depends on your playing style and the sound you want to achieve. However, some of the most popular pickups for fretless bass guitars are piezo pickups, magnetic pickups, and dual-coil pickups.
Piezo pickups are known for their clear and natural sound, which makes them a popular choice for fretless bass players who want to replicate the sound of an acoustic bass. They are also great for playing in a live setting as they can pick up vibrations from the strings and produce a clean and articulate sound.
Magnetic pickups are another popular choice for fretless bass guitars as they can produce a warm and fat sound. They are ideal for playing rock, blues, and jazz music and provide a great sustain that can add depth to your playing.
Dual-coil pickups, also known as humbucker pickups, are a combination of both piezo and magnetic pickups. They offer a balanced and versatile sound that works well for various genres of music. They are also great for reducing noise and feedback, making them a popular choice for recording.
Ultimately, the best pickups for your fretless bass guitar will depend on your personal preference and the sound you want to achieve. It's always a good idea to try out different pickups and experiment with various configurations to find the one that works best for you.
What are the best pickups for a jazz bass guitar?
When it comes to jazz bass guitars, there are a few pickups that are commonly used and highly recommended. One popular choice is the Fender Original Jazz Bass Pickups. These pickups provide a vintage sound with a warm tone and strong output, making them ideal for jazz music. Another great option is the Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound Jazz Bass Set. These pickups offer a higher output and more aggressive tone, making them perfect for jazz fusion and other modern jazz styles. Additionally, the Bartolini Jazz Bass Pickups are known for their clarity and definition, making them a popular choice for jazz bassists who want a more modern sound. Ultimately, the best pickups for a jazz bass guitar will depend on the individual player's preferences and the specific sound they are trying to achieve. It's always a good idea to do some research and try out different pickups before making a final decision.
What are the best pickups for a modern metal bass guitar?
When it comes to choosing pickups for a modern metal bass guitar, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you want pickups that can handle high gain and distortion without getting muddy or losing clarity. Additionally, you want pickups that can provide a strong low-end punch and tight midrange response.
One popular option for modern metal bass pickups is the EMG 40DC. These pickups feature dual ceramic magnets and a wide aperture for a powerful and punchy tone. They also have a low noise output, making them ideal for high-gain applications.
Another great option is the Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound for Bass. These pickups have a strong midrange presence and a hot output, making them perfect for cutting through a mix. They also have a high degree of articulation and clarity, making them ideal for complex playing styles.
Ultimately, the best pickups for a modern metal bass guitar will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. It's always a good idea to try out different pickups and see which ones work best for you.
What are the best pickups for a six-string bass guitar?
When it comes to choosing the best pickups for a six-string bass guitar, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important things to keep in mind is the type of music you play and the sound you're trying to achieve. For example, if you play metal or hard rock, you may want to look for pickups that deliver a powerful, aggressive tone. On the other hand, if you play jazz or funk, you may prefer pickups that produce a warm, smooth sound.
Some popular options for six-string bass pickups include the Bartolini MK Soapbar, the Nordstrand Big Single, and the EMG 40DC. Each of these pickups has its own unique characteristics and can be a great choice depending on your individual needs.
Ultimately, the best pickups for your six-string bass guitar will depend on your personal preferences, playing style, and the sound you're trying to achieve. It's always a good idea to do your research and try out different pickups before making a final decision.
What are the best pickups for a vintage-style bass guitar?
When it comes to choosing pickups for a vintage-style bass guitar, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll want to choose pickups that deliver that classic, warm tone that's synonymous with vintage basses. Single-coil pickups are a popular choice for achieving this sound, as they offer a clear, articulate tone with plenty of midrange punch.
Some of the best pickups for vintage-style bass guitars include the Fender Original Jazz Bass pickups, the Seymour Duncan Antiquity II Jazz Bass pickups, and the DiMarzio DP123 Model J pickups. Each of these pickups is designed to capture the essence of classic, vintage bass tones, while offering modern reliability and performance.
Ultimately, the best pickups for your vintage-style bass guitar will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. Consider experimenting with different pickups to find the perfect combination of vintage tone and modern performance.
Which brand is known for making the best bass guitar pickups?
When it comes to bass guitar pickups, there are several brands that are known for producing high-quality pickups. However, one brand that is often praised for its superior pickups is Seymour Duncan.
Seymour Duncan has been in the business of making guitar and bass pickups for over 40 years. The company offers a wide range of bass pickups to suit different playing styles and tonal preferences. Their pickups are known for their clear, articulate sound and excellent balance across all frequencies.
Another brand that is also highly regarded for its bass pickups is EMG. EMG pickups are known for their active design, which provides a clear and punchy sound that is ideal for heavy music styles. They are also designed to eliminate noise and interference, making them a popular choice for live performances.
Ultimately, the choice of the best bass guitar pickups will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. It's worth trying out different brands and models to find the one that works best for you.
Which pickups are best for a precision bass guitar?
When it comes to choosing the best pickups for a precision bass guitar, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and playing style. However, there are a few popular options that are worth considering.
The first is the Fender Precision Bass pickup, which is the classic choice and provides a warm, punchy tone. Another popular option is the Seymour Duncan SPB-3 Quarter Pound pickup, which delivers a higher output and more aggressive sound. The DiMarzio DP127 Split P pickup is also a great choice for those looking for a balanced tone and excellent clarity.
It's important to keep in mind that the type of music you play and your playing technique can also impact the sound of your pickups. For example, if you play a lot of heavy rock or metal, you may want to opt for pickups with a higher output and more distortion. Similarly, if you prefer a more traditional or vintage sound, you may want to consider pickups that replicate the tone of classic '60s or '70s basses. Ultimately, the best way to find the right pickups for your precision bass guitar is to experiment and try out different options until you find the sound that works best for you.