Change pickups or buy new bass?

[Simotron1]

Hey all,

I've been playing the same Fender Squire Jazz for about 20 years and it's nice to play but i just can't get the tone I want for slapping and poppin' funk styles.. it just doesn't cut thru - and no, it's not a case of just adding treble.

I checked out a whole bunch of basses in GC the other day and was about to drop the cash but thought I'd get a 2nd opinion - I can't afford more than $300 but don't really want to buy another bass - another 'thing' to then lug around, resell for less, etc - I'd rather just have one that I like.

Would changing the pickups solve my issue? The current ones are passive but I guess I'd want to change to active pickups. Also, I'm no wiring expert but would give it a go.

It's Korean-made, serial S926700

 

[two fingers]

Hey Welcome to TalkBass!!!

What kind of amp are you using and how to you set the controls on both it and the bass?

To stick to your question, if you like how it plays there are literally HUNDREDS of choices for Jazz pickups and onboard preamps out there.

 

[Simotron1]

Sorry, perhaps I should've said - this is mainly for recording and I'm going thru a Micromeek MQ3 compressor and a Scarlett 2i2 - that's about it - no EQ on the way in - all pots (3) tones and tone set to maximum on the bass

I record to Logic and have a lot of experience there but the raw sound itself is not good enough to my ears..

 

[wyrmspawn]

I would keep the bass. Since when in those 20 years are u missing something? What exactly is it ?

 

[Simotron1]

Well, that's true - I don't plan on selling the bass (it's probably worth close to nothing anyway) just wanna make it sound better but don't wanna go ruin it by taking it apart and mucking it up

 

[wyrmspawn]

There are several possibilities that can be reverted without traces ... u have to define the desires sound, Then, since u seem to like a passive bass, select your pups and circuit

 

[Simotron1]

I did mention the sound and the fact I want to change to active pickups

 

[wyrmspawn]

Sorry i do not seem to get your point, Maybe it is my english.

 

[gjohnson441496]

Welcome to TB! I've been a member for 2 years. You've come to the right place for answers. A lot of these guys are super knowledgeable and will steer you in the right direction. You will also get a ton of personal opinions so take it all in and figure it out!

I think you should buy a new bass. You had that one for 20 years. The new Squires are remarkably crafted especially the Vintage Modified and Classic Vibe, and they wont cost you an arm and a leg. You should also look for a used one where you may be able to find a great deal on a MIM bass.

 

[FingerDub]

I'd get a new bass and sell the old one. TBH I feel bad that you have been playing a 90s Squire for 20 years.

 

[Simotron1]

Thanks all - yeah, maybe I'll look into those - it's true - it definitely has the feel of an older, cheaper instrument :/