Warwick $$ pickups.... swapping them out

[hambus]

I'm really dissappointed with the MEC humbuckers in this bass. 4 string bolt on $$. I can't get a good slap tone. Has anyone ever swapped out the pickups and/or electronics. I bought this on Ebay based on reviews and I'm regretting it. I'd like to customize it to get a better slap tone.

Thanks
Steve H.

 

[golem]

I'm really dissappointed with the MEC humbuckers in this
bass. 4 string bolt on $$. I can't get a good slap tone. Has
anyone ever swapped out the pickups and/or electronics. I
bought this on Ebay based on reviews and I'm regretting it.
I'd like to customize it to get a better slap tone.

Thanks
Steve H.

`

Just to be thorough about evaluating it, did you try
it in passive bypass? If you find that it's better, or
even "less worser", in passive, then that suggests
that you're prolly OK with the PU tone, but you're
unhappy with the EQ/pre that they feed into.

You bought it on ebay, so just in case you're not
aware, you pull out the volume knob for passive.

Measure twice, cut once.

`

 

[maddrakkett]

It's hard to find another brand of replacement pickups for the $$, but first I would look for other ways to improve the tone - either string height, new/different brand/type strings (probably your Number one fix), or even technique changes to accomodate the larger pickups.

I have a 5-string $$ and find it sounds great when slapping. I would seriously look at new strings (I get great tone from my Warwick Black Lable steels, but a lot of people here like DR High Beam nickels) and changing the string height. For a fatter, more resonant tone, try raising the strings to give them more room to "bounce" and ring.

Don't give up on the $$ - it's a very versatile and capable bass. You made a wise decision to buy it. But it is a different beast to get used to and once you do, you'll fall in love. Trust me!

 

[golem]

`

I swap ya a Sterling for the $$.

if you don't like the slap tone on the Sterling, take up badminton.

`

 

[Florin]

Welcome to the forum Steve!!!

With the pickups in single coil mode, and panned equal or more of the neck pickup, you should get a good slap sound. And bypass the eq too ...
Of course, you need good new strings, and proper setup. For me a medium- low action gives the best slap sound...

I agree with you you should never buy gear based on reviews only... But Golem is right, give a little more time to your corvette