Sound Clips: A/B of Seymour Duncan Steve Harris SPB-4 vs. Squier VM Jag Special Stock Split Coil

[tlite]

Which do you prefer?

It was a rainy weekend, and just for fun decided to record some brief samples of these two pickups so I could gauge the difference myself after the swap. Figured I'd share these files in the event it's helpful and/or fun.

The contenders:
1. Squier Vintage-Style Split Single-Coil Precision Bass (Stock P-Bass Pickup for this Squier)

2. Seymour Duncan Steve Harris Signature SPB-4

Recording Notes

• Instrument: Squier VM Jaguar Bass Special Full Scale Bass
  • Bass has been converted to passive- no active bass boost circuit
  • Bridge Pickup set to zero on all recordings
  • Volume Full and Tone Full unless otherwise noted
• Recorded with Cubase 7
  • Direct with M-Audio Profire 610
  • No effects- just the bass and where applicable a drum track

As with all gear audio, best to listen with decent speakers or headphones.

Sample 1
Open Strings and Major Scales

Squier Pickup


SPB-4


Squier Pickup Tone 0


SPB-4 Tone 0

​

Sample 2
Walking Bass w/Drum Track

Squier Pickup


SPB-4
​

Sample 3
Rock With Pick and Drum Track

Squier Pickup


SPB-4

​

Don't forget to vote in the poll up top...

 

[IronSpatula]

Much less of a difference than I expected, to be honest. The Steve Harris seems to have a little more clarity and growl, particularly in the pick track, but the stock Squier pickup is quite good!

 

[Slater]

To me, the SPB-4 sounds more tight and focused. In comparison, the Squier pickup sounds a little loose, but not bad. What you can’t get from sound clips is feel, and how easy or difficult it is to achieve dynamics with your playing.

Oh, I think you violated a major rule. I believe you’re only allowed to play Iron Maiden licks when reviewing the SPB-4, so watch out!

 

[tlite]

Much less of a difference than I expected, to be honest. The Steve Harris seems to have a little more clarity and growl, particularly in the pick track, but the stock Squier pickup is quite good!

That was my thought, too. Surprised they were more (to my ear) similar than different.

Oh, I think you violated a major rule. I believe you’re only allowed to play Iron Maiden licks when reviewing the SPB-4, so watch out!

Oh man, you so rightfully called me out on that.

 

[tlite]

Fishing for a few more opinions... Anyone ?Bueller?