Hey everyone, I’ve been bitten pretty hard by GAS lately, and I’ve been looking at getting a second bass. I’ve got an Ibanez SRA500(double humbucker), but I really want a P or PJ setup too. As it stands, I’m looking at getting a BB234/434, or a Squier Classic Vibe. Complicating things is the fact that I just found out that EMG and Bartolini both make P and J pickups in soapbar housings.
I like how my Ibanez feels and plays, and I’ve gotten to try out the BB and CV, and those also feel pretty nice. So what do y’all think? Give in to GAS and get a whole new bass, or swap the pickups?
Yep, this. To add to the post though, the 234 is a very nice beginner bass. If it’s at all possible though, even if it means delaying to save up more, I’d suggest the 434. While both nice, the 434 is a big step up that you’d have a hard time matching in terms of fit and finish for under $1k. Sire’s keep pace and are worthy of the same praise. If you want to check those out, look up the Sire P series. There are PJs in there and the P5 / P5R is a traditional P bass.
Seriously consider buying a used bass that has a P or PJ setup. It’ll be a bit cheaper than buying new and you’ll figure out how much you really want to pursue getting into the P/PJ sounds.
Glad I picked up a surf green one too! Couldn’t resist at the price; it was a clearance bass but the only two defects are a small bur on the bridge and a small bur on the back plate.
Thanks for the perspectives! As it stands, I’m looking seriously at saving up for a BB434, having obsessively watched review/sound demo videos. The other big contender right now is a Schecter Stealth 4 that was at GC last time I was there. That P/MM setup sounds so beefy, and I was floored by how much it had to offer besides Schecter mainly being known as the metal brand. I’ve got a monthish to change my mind every other day.
