Big bass, thin sound

[7string]

I'm writing on here in the hope that I can get a solution to a problem :D

I have a 7 string bass (hence the username) which is an excellent instrument, but the sound has always been lacking. I ordered the bass with just 1 humbucking pickup (which is 54mm away from the bridge), 1 volume control and I really wanted a solid, strong "P-bass on steroids" tone. When I first got the bass, I played it for a couple of months but could never really get the sound I wanted and had a preamp fitted. Even though this preamp has many settings, the sound is just not there.

I was playing another of my basses last night, switched to the 7 and the sound was so thin in comparison. The bass does have a series/parallel switch but the sound starts thin and gets thinner. The tone I'm getting at the moment edges towards that J bass bridge nasally sound, which is not my thing at all.

I want the bass to have a real strong sound, perfect for rock/metal. At the moment, this bass sounds like a really skinny guy with a headband on, who couldn't punch his way out of a paper bag. What I need is a cruiserweight, a big punch but still kinda agile.

So the question is: Is it possible to rewind the pickup and give the bass the sound I'm after??

Any help is greatly appreciated  :)

 

[38thBeatle]

Welcome to the forum. Tim at BKP does do rewinds and I'd suggest having a word with him and seek his advice. He will give you an honest appraisal and if it is a goer you can make the arrangements.

[7string]

Thanks for that. I'll get in contact with him.

I know a couple of guys with BKP's in their basses and they're really pleased with them.

[38thBeatle]

Yeah my brother has them in his Precision and loves them. I have yet to change the pickup in my Precision. Lately it hasn't been used as a working instrument and it does have a pretty good tone anyway and so I have let it go.