Yes, you can put humbucker pickups in a jazz bass. In fact, many jazz bassists do so to get a thicker, fuller sound. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before making the switch.
First, humbuckers are generally larger than single coil pickups, so you may need to modify your bass to accommodate them. This may involve routing out the body of the bass or installing a new pickguard.
Second, humbuckers tend to have a higher output than single coil pickups, so you may need to adjust the amplifier settings to avoid clipping.
Finally, humbuckers can change the overall sound of your bass. If you are looking for a more traditional jazz bass sound, you may want to stick with single coil pickups. However, if you are looking for a thicker, fuller sound, humbuckers can be a great option.
Here are some of the benefits of putting humbuckers in a jazz bass:
- Fuller, warmer sound: Humbuckers are known for their full, warm sound. This can be a great addition to a jazz bass, which can sometimes sound thin and bright.
- Increased output: Humbuckers also have a higher output than single coil pickups. This means that they can produce a louder sound, which can be helpful for gigging bassists.
- Less noise: Humbuckers are less susceptible to noise and hum than single coil pickups. This can be a big plus for bassists who play in noisy environments.
Here are some of the drawbacks of putting humbuckers in a jazz bass:
- Less treble: Humbuckers tend to have less treble than single coil pickups. This can make them sound a bit muddy, especially on the bridge pickup.
- More difficult to EQ: Humbuckers can be more difficult to EQ than single coil pickups. This is because they have a wider frequency response.
- More expensive: Humbucker pickups are generally more expensive than single coil pickups.
If you are considering putting humbuckers in your jazz bass, it is important to weigh the pros and cons. If you are looking for a fuller, warmer sound with less noise, then humbuckers can be a great option. However, if you are looking for a more traditional jazz bass sound, you may want to stick with single coil pickups.
Ultimately, the best way to decide whether or not to put humbuckers in your jazz bass is to try it out and see what you think. Many bassists find that humbuckers can give their bass a new and interesting sound that they really enjoy.
