It's a funny old life ... Washburn v Bartolini

[The Geoff]

Without getting into complicated stories, I ended up with a 5 string MM Bartolini pickup looking for a bass.

 

I got a Washburn Bantam RB2005 off eBay for a very decent price and immediately replaced the stock pup with the Bart.

 

I liked it - warm bass and plenty of highs even in series, and I like the Bantam too - Buzz Feiten system, 2 band pre and thru'body stringing. A narrow neck too, which suits my small hands and easy to play.

 

However, on re-evaluating my gear, I decided that I'd keep my Hohner B bass, my Hohner JJ and my Westone Thunder III Fretless & sell the other 5.

 

I put the stock pup back on the Bantam and was immediately knocked out by how well defined the 'B' string sounded.

 

Overall, the stock Washburn pup lacks the warmth & depth of the Bart, but the Bart isn't nearly as well defined on the bottom strings.

 

Decisions, decisions.........

 

Geoff