The Electra Forums

So my neck-position pickup is beginning to grow untrustworthy, fading in and out of working condition. I don't know how to fix it *and don't really want to try, anyway* so I am looking into getting a new pickup.

I've never gone pickup-shopping, so I don't know what pickups will produce what sound. Since the bridge pickup handles the bassy rhythm well on its own, I want something that will work more on the trebly regions. I'm thinking something along the lines of the old Rickenbacker sound *a la Rubber Soul and earlier*, something really barky and sharp. Short of buying a Rickenbacker 12-string, any suggestions?

Well, first I'd say that pickups almost never wear out (although they can get damaged by heat) Usually what gets worn out is the selector switch or the volume and tone pots. I would suggest disconnecting the pickup and running a jumper wire directly to it without the wiring harness- see if the problem is still there. If not, it's elsewhere.

But maybe you were jsut looking for an excuse :) SOunds like maybe you want to try some lipstick pickups, the ones on Danelectros are pretty cool. Or various P-90 type things. I believe there are some Rick fans around here who can suggest similar aftermarket options.

Lipstick tubes and P-90s are good suggestions, as are Filtertron "toaster" type pickups. Rickenbacker actually makes a line of "Vintage" pickups that you might want to try out as well.

I was concerned when I read that your bridge pickup is more bassy, or less trebly, than your neck pickup. In my experience, the tonal balance is the other way around. It might be a really good idea to check the wiring and switches before replacing anything, just to prevent wasting time and money.

Good luck. Let us know what you end up deciding to do!

Matthew