4004L toaster mod?

[aceonbass]

As far as RIC basses go, if I'm putting single coils in, I want the higher output of the RIC high gain. For a 4004, the poles get in the way, so I remove them and put a toaster cover on. My 4004Cii TR is the only bass I have with this configuration, but the sound is pure vintage single coil 4001 to my ears. Everyone seemed to like it a lot at the last SoCalRickenJam.

[cassius987]

I like high output too but I find my Toasters plenty loud for jazz and fusion. I'm surprised they have a reputation for being quieter in a way... I have had the power to shatter peoples eardrums with my 4003FL if I so chose (I didn't--kept my amp at about 1/6th power the whole time )

I also took my 4003 with double Toasters to an outdoor gig recently... we did lots of covers, as this band I was subbing in for. "Cocaine" and "Sunshine of Your Love" were both great examples of how jagged and aggressive this bass could sound, yet with a clarity I found delightful. Apparently they did too because I'm going to replace their bassist on their upcoming CD recording.

[cheyenne]

That sounds interesting Dane. What do you replace the poles with when you remove them?

[aceonbass]

After I remove the poles, I replace them with Allen screws. Funny thing is, during testing I found that the pickups worked without any poles at all

[cheyenne]

Verrrrryyyy interesting.

What's the thread size and the screw length? (If you dont mind me asking)?

[aceonbass]

I don't know what the specs are on these since I got them from a forum member, but I do know they are 1/2" long.

[tmossman]

Dane are they the ones I sent?

[aceonbass]

Yes they are Todd..and thanks again

[tmossman]

Yes they are Todd..and thanks again

Anytime, Dane.

Scott, pm me with your address, I have some more screws if you want them.

[cheyenne]

Todd, PM sent.

[aceonbass]

It should be noted that unless you have the current high gains with adjustable poles, it is VERY tricky to remove them. This mod can't be done with pre-1990 pickups either.

[cheyenne]

Gotcha.

[aceonbass]

Oh...almost forgot....The best high gain to use on a 4004 would be a bridge position high gain for a guitar. The 4004's wider string spacing would be better served by these. That's what I used on my 4004.

[cheyenne]

Do the guitar pups drop right in Dane?

Are there any mods to be made as far as the pup routing?

[aceonbass]

Yes Scott, the guitar pickups drop right in. No mods at all to the body or wiring. I suppose the volume pot should be replaced with a 250k part, but the added brightness sounds perfect on my 4004Cii. with it's "darker" construction.