which MFDs for a Bass VI: Z-Coil or SC-2 style?

[JES]

Greetings. I am contemplating doing a Bass VI build. For a regular 4-string bass, I love the G&L SB-2 split coil pickup. It is my favourite and, well, "sounds like me."

Does that mean for a Bass VI I would like a Z-Coil, or are they totally different in construction and sound despite the similarity in concept? Another option would be the soapbar single coils like in an SC-2. Does anyone on the board have insights into sound differences, especially how they handle the low end? Most discussions I find online discuss the top end more.

Thank you.

[guitar_ed]

Hi Jes,

I would think that what you are thinking of will not work well.

First, and probably foremost, string spacing. There is a difference between guitar & bass spacing. If it's not right, string relative to pole, it won't work right.

Second, there might be an actual difference in the was a bass pickup is wound, relative to a guitar. I am not 100% sure, though.

edg

[JES]

Thanks, but I'm talking about a Bass V, not a full length six string bass. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fender_Bass_VI They have the same string spacing as guitars, and the current Fender Squier model has super low output Jaguar type guitar pickups. Also, the old L5000 pickup looks like a modded Z-Coil. Though who knows what's underneath..,,

[NickHorne]

If you are thinking of a VI with guitar spacing (54mm centres at bridge), why not consider the Will Ray Z-coil? This is on sale at a discount at the G&L online store, since they discontinued the model (I am stockpiling these when I can, they're my favourite pickup). This is beefier than the regular Z. I would expect you to get a sort of humbucking Jazz Bass result.
Do be very CAREFUL with this pickup! If you do acquire one, unpack it very carefully, to avoid the cover moving at all on the pickup. The coils are very close to the cover, and the waxing usually connects the two so that careless handling can tear the windings. Get it out of the wrapping carefully, and then tape the cover to the backplate until it's safely installed in a pickguard with screws and springs.
I think the SC2 pup would work too, just no humcancelling. But my guess is the WR Z-coil. Great value right now, too, which may ease the risk-factor for you!
Do let us all know how this goes.

[JES]

Thanks Nick. That's a hell of a deal. You say they're "beefier" than the regular Z-Coils. Does that mean more lows? Low mids? Higher output?

[NickHorne]

If your string spacing needs to be wider than 54, then the SC2 / Asat Super bridge pup would be my choice. You can fine-tune spacing by angling it to suit. This is also available at the G&L online store, although its description there is a bit obscure. I have one in a Special and can testify to its meatiness. Not humcancelling, of course.

[NickHorne]

The WRs do have more lows, mids, and output. Not at all dull though.

[darwinohm]

JES, what guitar are you going to use for a Bass VI platform?. That will determine your pickup pole spacing. I did this about 2 years ago using a John Mayer Strat with 30' scale conversion neck and it worked out very well. I documented it on this forum here. http://guitarsbyleo.com/FORUM/viewtopic ... ect#p84243. If the link doesn't work just search for "Bass VI Project". If your using a G&L guitar, I would just use the pickups that are in it. A WR Z coil would be cool.

I ran it through my regular bass amp and it worked fine. I had gig situations where the room had rumble and things were muddy. I used the Bass VI in those situations and it cut through the mix better. Most people didn't notice the difference. There were people who noticed the trem arm on the bass and asked about it. I didn't use it a lot and am in the process of converting this John Mayer to a 24 3/4 scale strat. That is also really cool and after checking it out and testing, I am in the process of applying a finish on the neck. Hope this helps a bit. -- Darwin

[JES]

Hi Folks,

Reviving this thread. Would you use the WR bridge pickup in ALL positions, or just the bridge? Relatedly, I see there's a difference between "neck/bridge" and "middle" positions for the regular Z-coils on the G&L store. Can anyone tell me what that difference is?

I've decided to go low budget to start. I have a Squier Bass VI that plays fine, especially with a Staytrem bridge and Kalium strings. But I hate the pickups even though I know I'm supposed to love them. So I will have it routed out and put on a new pick guard and try the Z-coils in that.

Thank you.

[Craig]

Hi Folks,

Reviving this thread. Would you use the WR bridge pickup in ALL positions, or just the bridge? Relatedly, I see there's a difference between "neck/bridge" and "middle" positions for the regular Z-coils on the G&L store. Can anyone tell me what that difference is?

I've decided to go low budget to start. I have a Squier Bass VI that plays fine, especially with a Staytrem bridge and Kalium strings. But I hate the pickups even though I know I'm supposed to love them. So I will have it routed out and put on a new pick guard and try the Z-coils in that.

Thank you.

You might consider these found in the G&L On-Line Store: PICKUP - MFD Z-COIL SET WITH ZINC POLE PIECES

Set of three genuine G&L Magnetic Field Design Z-Coil pickups as used on Comanche and ASAT Z-3 models. These have zinc plated pole pieces which look brighter than the nickel plating currently used in production. See photo for comparison of zinc to nickel plating. Black covers only. Comes with mounting screws and springs. Each pickup in the set has a different color positive lead though all are same specification.

They are currently on sale at a Clearance price.