Is it bad for strings to hit P pickups?

[djddanman]

When I strike the strings on my Squier PJ bass hard enough, they hit my P pickup, especially on the E and A strings. I've noticed some wear on the neck side of the pickup as a result. I actually like the resulting sound so I don't want to change anything, but I'm wondering if I risk damaging the pickup (beyond cosmetics) if I don't lower it. Thanks!

 

[bolophonic]

I’d be more concerned with damaging my amp with the loud pops that come with strings hitting the pickups. Or damaging my reputation by becoming known as the guy who’s strings make the loud pop that results from the strings hitting the pickups.

 

[MCS4]

Look up some clips of Doug Johns if you want to see a guy who does that a lot as well (intentionally) and sounds great. I believe he sometimes epoxies his pickup covers as otherwise he melts through them too fast.

 

[djddanman]

Thanks! I don't get many loud pops unless the gain is cranked up. I'll have to look up Doug Johns

 

[sharkbait130]

Yes , it's bad for strings to hit any pick ups. Lower the pick ups.

 

[Badwater]

If it sounds great and it's done in good taste, there is no problems with strings hitting the pickups. But, if it sounds like crap and makes the song sound like crap, it's a huge problem that needs to be fixed.

As for it damaging the pickup cover, not a real issue. It adds to the mojo and natural wear on the guitar vs the fake relic.

 

[djddanman]

Yeah, if my gain and tone are both up it sounds awful, but with a little tweaking I get my favorite bass sound