The Seymour Duncan NYC bass 5-string pickup offers bassists a versatile and dynamic tonal palette, combining precision engineering with a warm, organic sound. Originally crafted for premium handcrafted basses, this pickup features a dual-coil J-style design with double rows of exposed Alnico 2 pole pieces for a punchy, focused tone with smooth upper mids. Its four-conductor cable supports three wiring modes—parallel, series, and single-coil—allowing players to explore a range of voicings, from vintage Jazz Bass clarity to modern high-output punch. Designed to fit standard DC 40 routs, the NYC bass pickup is ideal for upgrading 5-string basses with unparalleled tonal flexibility and refined response.
Seymour Duncan Alnico 2 Magnets for Warm, Organic Tone
The Alnico 2 magnets in this bass pickup deliver a natural warmth that sets it apart from active soapbar designs. These magnets create a balanced response across all strings, emphasizing a punchy low end and smooth upper mids. This tonal profile provides a rich, organic foundation for complex basslines, ensuring every note cuts through the mix without harshness. Compared to active counterparts, the Alnico 2-equipped NYC bass pickup offers a more refined and focused character, making it an excellent choice for players seeking articulate and musical tones.
Three Wiring Modes for Versatile Voicing
This pickup's four-conductor cable enables three distinct wiring configurations, allowing players to tailor their tone to their specific needs. Use parallel wiring for a clean, noise-free single-coil sound with added body and weight, or opt for series mode to maximize output with bold, punchy lows and full-spectrum richness. The single-coil mode delivers the crisp, vintage sound of a classic Jazz Bass, ideal for expressive, nuanced playing. Each mode offers a unique tonal signature, ensuring this pickup can handle a wide range of sonic applications with precision and clarity.
Customizable Installation for Seamless Integration
The NYC bass pickup is designed for easy integration into 5-string basses with standard DC 40 routs. Its compatibility with Seymour Duncan's STC tone control systems or any 3-way mini toggle switch makes accessing all three wiring modes intuitive. For a streamlined setup, players can use a standard push/pull pot to toggle between two configurations, maintaining a clean and professional look. Hand-built in Santa Barbara, CA, this pickup includes comprehensive wiring instructions to ensure seamless installation and optimal performance in any bass.