Top 10 Best Pickups for Fretless Bass
When it comes to enhancing the sound of your fretless bass, choosing the right pickups is crucial. Fretless bass guitars offer a unique sound and playability, but the pickups you select can significantly affect your tone. In this article, we’ll review the top 10 pickups for fretless bass, considering their features, pros and cons, and overall value for musicians.
1. EMG 40P5
- Type: Active
- Magnet Type: Ceramic
- Wiring: Split-coil
- Output: High
Price: $119.00
Pros:
- Excellent clarity and articulation.
- Low noise and high output.
- Easy installation and compatibility with various basses.
Cons:
- Requires a battery for the active system.
- Higher price point than passive pickups.
2. DiMarzio Model P
- Type: Passive
- Magnet Type: Alnico
- Wiring: Split-coil
- Output: Medium
Price: $79.99
Pros:
- Warm, vintage tone.
- Great for various music styles.
- High-quality construction.
Cons:
- May require more tweaking for optimal sound.
- Limited output compared to active pickups.
3. Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound P-Bass
- Type: Passive
- Magnet Type: Alnico 5
- Wiring: Split-coil
- Output: High
Price: $85.00
Pros:
- Strong output for punchy tone.
- Excellent for slap and fingerstyle playing.
- Versatile for various genres.
Cons:
- Can be too aggressive for some styles.
- Installation may require some adjustments.
4. Bartolini 8S Pickup
- Type: Passive
- Magnet Type: Ceramic
- Wiring: Dual-coil
- Output: Medium
Price: $119.99
Pros:
- Rich harmonic content.
- Balanced output across frequencies.
- Suitable for both fretless and fretted basses.
Cons:
- Requires careful installation for optimal sound.
- Higher price range for passive pickups.
5. Nordstrand Big Single Pickup
- Type: Passive
- Magnet Type: Alnico 5
- Wiring: Single-coil
- Output: Medium
Price: $79.99
Pros:
- Warm and dynamic sound.
- Responsive to playing techniques.
- Great for jazz and fusion styles.
Cons:
- Single-coil hum can be an issue.
- Limited output compared to some humbuckers.
6. Lace Sensor P-Bass Pickup
- Type: Active
- Magnet Type: Ceramic
- Wiring: Split-coil
- Output: High
Price: $99.99
Pros:
- Silent operation with no hum.
- Extended frequency response.
- Ideal for high-gain situations.
Cons:
- Requires battery for operation.
- Slightly heavier than traditional pickups.
7. Kent Armstrong P-Bass Pickup
- Type: Passive
- Magnet Type: Alnico V
- Wiring: Split-coil
- Output: Medium
Price: $65.00
Pros:
- Great vintage tone.
- Affordable price for quality sound.
- Easy installation.
Cons:
- Not as high-output as some competitors.
- Limited tonal range.
8. Seymour Duncan Basslines SMB-4A
- Type: Passive
- Magnet Type: Alnico 5
- Wiring: Dual-coil
- Output: Medium
Price: $95.00
Pros:
- Deep, rich tone.
- Excellent dynamic range.
- Ideal for both fretless and fretted basses.
Cons:
- Installation may be a bit tricky for beginners.
- Mid-range emphasis may not suit all players.
9. Fishman Fluence P-Bass Pickup
- Type: Active
- Magnet Type: N/A (Fluence technology)
- Wiring: Dual-voiced
- Output: High
Price: $179.95
Pros:
- Multiple voicings for versatile sound.
- Low noise and high clarity.
- Battery life lasts up to 200 hours.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Installation requires more technical knowledge.
10. EMG 35P4
- Type: Active
- Magnet Type: Ceramic
- Wiring: Split-coil
- Output: High
Price: $135.00
Pros:
- Exceptional tonal clarity.
- Ideal for modern music styles.
- Quick and easy installation.
Cons:
- Active pickups require batteries.
- Price may be a concern for budget players.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pickups for your fretless bass can transform your sound and playing experience. Each of these pickups offers unique features, tones, and characteristics suited for different styles. Whether you prefer the warmth of passive pickups or the clarity of active options, there’s something here for everyone. Make sure to consider your playing style and budget when making your selection!