10 Best Bass Pickups 2025 in the United States

The KNA DB-1 Portable Bridge-Mounted Piezo Pickup is a solid choice for double bass players looking to amplify their natural sound without altering their instrument. One of its standout features is its ease of installation; it attaches to the tailpiece with a non-destructive screw, ensuring no permanent modifications are needed. This makes it an appealing option for those who value the integrity of their instrument.

The wooden-encased sensor is designed to capture the true tone of your double bass, providing a natural acoustic sound that works well for genres like classical and rockabilly. The 1/4" output jack allows for straightforward connectivity to amps, PA systems, or recording consoles, making it versatile for various performance and recording settings. Being handcrafted in Europe, it promises premium sound quality and durability.

However, it is worth noting that this pickup is passive, meaning it relies on the instrument's natural vibrations and may require a preamp for the best sound quality in some setups. Additionally, while its lightweight design (0.1 grams) is advantageous for portability, some users might prefer a more robust feel. With a high customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, the KNA DB-1 is well-regarded by its users, indicating general satisfaction with its performance. This pickup is best suited for double bass players who need a portable, non-invasive solution to amplify their instrument while retaining its natural acoustic qualities.

The Fishman BP-100 Classic Series Upright Bass Pickup is a bridge-mounted, dual-element piezo-ceramic pickup designed for upright basses. It's known for easy installation and delivering a deep, sustained pizzicato tone with quick articulation and a strong direct string sound. Although it can be used without a preamp, an impedance-matching preamp like the Fishman Platinum Stage or Pro EQ is recommended to get the best sound quality, especially because they have dedicated bass modes.

This pickup is passive, meaning it does not require any external power source or batteries to operate, which simplifies its use. However, for optimal performance, professional installation is advised, which might add to the cost for some users. The material used is ceramic, and the product is black, weighing 9.6 ounces with dimensions of 0.5 x 2 x 3 inches.

While it's a reliable and well-regarded product, users looking for a simple plug-and-play experience without the additional purchase of a preamp or professional installation might find it less appealing.

The Fender Ultra Noiseless Vintage Jazz Bass V (5-String) Pickups are designed to offer bass players a high-quality, noiseless performance. These pickups utilize Alnico 5 magnets, which are known for providing a focused sound with enhanced dynamics. This can be particularly beneficial for players who want clear, articulate tones without the hum often associated with vintage pickups. The polysol coated magnet wire and non-beveled polepieces contribute to the durability and consistent performance of the pickups, making them a reliable choice for both studio and live settings.

Additionally, the installation hardware is included, which makes the setup process more convenient for users. However, these pickups are passive, meaning they do not have the built-in preamp found in active pickups. This can be a drawback for players who prefer the boosted output and tonal shaping capabilities of active pickups. These 5-string pickups are specifically tailored for Jazz Bass guitars, which might limit their versatility for players using different bass models.

They are not discontinued and have been available since 2020, suggesting they are a stable product in Fender's lineup. Weighing in at 12.8 ounces and with compact dimensions, these pickups are both lightweight and easy to handle. In summary, the Fender Ultra Noiseless Vintage Jazz Bass V Pickups are a solid choice for Jazz Bass players seeking a noiseless, vintage sound with modern reliability, though their passive nature and specific fit might not suit everyone.