While BBG does carry plenty of upgrade options for Fender bass instruments such as the Precision Bass and Jazz Bass, we also receive questions as to whether there are any upgrades that will fit into a Jackson bass.
Answer: Yes.
Pickups
Generally speaking, the pickup size that will fit most 4-string Jackson basses is EMG35, and the size that fits most 5-string models is the EMG40 size.
Does this mean you absolutely have to use EMG brand? No. In this context, it’s just a designation for a specific pickup case size.
Some examples of pickups that have EMG35 and EMG40 size options:
And, of course, there are several EMG choices of which the case size is named after.
Unsure of which pickup to get? That’s what we’re here for. Ask us directly by emailing sales@bestbassgear.com or call +1 877-839-3531.
Tuners
This, fortunately, is much easier:
This is a tuner key you’ve seen before not only on Jackson basses but many others. It has that very familiar triangle button shape, comes in black, gold or chrome, has the 20:1 gear ratio, performs great and installs easy.
The size of this tuner is for basses with a headstock bore hole of 9/16-inch. If you need assistance with measuring that hole, ask us (use the contact information mentioned above) and we can help you out.
What about other things like preamps and bridges?
We would need you to provide us with more information on your Jackson bass to make the best recommendation(s). Certain parts will fit but you may need to modify your Jackson bass to achieve the correct fit. Use our contact information above, tell us what type of upgrade you’re planning on doing and we will tell you what will work in your Jackson bass.
Do you know what size tuners I would need for a Jackson Dave Ellefson 4 string bass (import model) ?
I believe the Gotoh tuners listed in the article are the very ones you need and likely already have on your bass.
Excellent article. I’ve been thinking about getting a Jackson JS2 for an 80’s hairband tribute. I bet a set of Nordstrand big splits would make it sing. Thanks for publishing this info.
What Tone Replacement Pot for a Jackson JS2 Concert Bass would be best to achieve a more treble sound. Thanks so much.