changing only magnet shape/size - what would you expect

[Rodent]

I've seen several companies utilizing alternate rod sizes/shapes of late, but haven't found a thread here discussing this topic ...

think of a Jbass single-coil pickup for just a second - each string is services by a pair of .187" AL5 rods

if you were to change out the dual rod configuration for a single .25" AL5 rod, or maybe a .25" square AL rod, or even a .187"x.375" rectangular AL5 rod ... what sonic impact would you anticipate hearing if the coil depths, wire size, and turns/layer + total turns were kept the same?

assuming the player was skilled and used high quality amp/speakers with roundwound strings, the preamp set flat (if so equipped) and the tone controls wide open ... thoughts on what you would expect to hear different compared to a traditional Jbass single coil, if anything?

[David King]

Larry Pollack does this or did with his uber-expensive DC pickups. I certainly couldn't hear any difference. Everyone is looking for a way to differentiate the look of their pickups as a way to grab some market share. I really don't think it will make much difference. If you want to get a better sounding pickup then wind separate coils for each string so that more of the wire is closer to the magnet.

[big_teee]

If you want to get a better sounding pickup then wind separate coils for each string so that more of the wire is closer to the magnet.

+1

[LtKojak]

If you want to get a better sounding pickup then wind separate coils for each string so that more of the wire is closer to the magnet.

David, I'm intrigued by this statement.

What effect does it have comparing it with the traditional way of winding a p'up and WHAT exactly do you mean by "better"? Also, is this referred specifically to a Jazz Bass p'up, or you mean single-coil p'us, or also humbucker p'ups as well?

Inquiring minds would like to know.

[big_teee]

David, I'm intrigued by this statement.

What effect does it have comparing it with the traditional way of winding a p'up and WHAT exactly do you mean by "better"? Also, is this referred specifically to a Jazz Bass p'up, or you mean single-coil p'us, or also humbucker p'ups as well?

Inquiring minds would like to know.

I've been making the Multi-coils lately, and DK was probably referring to bass pickups.
With bass most guys want hot and bright, and MCs with individual coils per string, give you that.
T

[ScottA]

If you want to get a better sounding pickup then wind separate coils for each string so that more of the wire is closer to the magnet.

Now. There's an idea...

;-)

[LtKojak]

Now. There's an idea...

;-)

That's what I thought...

[David King]

Bartolini has been doing it this way since the 1970s and although their pickups aren't the brightest sounding around they are about the flattest frequency response of the high impedance types. The legendary WAL pickups are wound this way and apparently they've been doing something right.