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Kloppmann is renowned for their painstakingly accurate vintage reproductions, and their P-bass pickups represent the pinnacle of this dedication to authenticity. Andreas Kloppmann finds the best-sounding examples from his original vintage collection of pickups and reproduces them using traditional materials and construction methods that mirror the original manufacturing processes.
It's important to notice that there was a lot of variation back in the day, so these aren't just generic vintage reproductions, these are modeled after the best-sounding ones Andreas was able to find. This means you're getting the cream of the crop, not just an average representation of what was available during those classic eras.
Kloppmann P-bass pickups come in two varieties: the '63 and the '57, each representing a distinct period in P-bass evolution.
The '63 is THE iconic P-bass tone you have in your head. It delivers firm lows, just the right amount of low-mids, and the characteristic upper-mid bite that the P-bass is famous for. This is the sound that defined countless classic recordings and continues to be the gold standard for P-bass tone. Pair it up with a fresh set of roundwound strings, and you get that aggressive, punchy sound that cuts through any mix. Pair it with flatwound strings, and it's Motown all day. The smooth, thumping tone that laid the foundation for soul and R&B.
The '57 is overall a more mellow version, representing the earlier era of P-bass design. It's rounder in the top end and in the high-mids, offering a warmer character that's perfect for players who want that classic P-bass voice without the aggressive edge of the later models. This pickup excels in situations where you want warmth and musicality over cutting power.
Both are great-sounding P-bass pickups that showcase the meticulous attention to detail that Kloppmann brings to every product. Whether you're looking for the bite of the '63 or the smoother P-bass experience of the '57, these Kloppmanns will transport you back in time to the golden age of bass tone.
From Kloppmann
Model PB 63
This pickup gives you the whole range of Precision Bass sound variations: bigger, more punchy sound with the unmistakable “whack” of the g-string when it is slapped. A true foundation of bass for the music, particularly when you think of who made this bass sound popular: James Jamerson played almost all his Mowtown hits with his Precision Bass. 90% of the Stax hits were accompanied by “Duck” Dunn´s Precision and at a guess, around 40% of all the worldwide hits were given their bass foundation with this legendary instrument.
Model PB 57
The coils on the PB 57 are historically authentic with Formvar-coated wiring. The difference with the PB 63: the sound has more presence, is somewhat finer and more drawn out.
Size:
2.25” [57.15mm] Long
1.12” [28.45mm] Wide
A blooming low end, and a voice that really speaks to the sound of yesteryear, the Kloppmann PB 63 has excellent vintage P Bass® tone. The PB 63 is open and clear with good attack in the top end, and old school lows. Comparing with another other pickup in the vintage realm: We hear a slightly softer mid range compared the Fralin P, but a little more in the top end in the Kloppmann offering.
Put on a good set of headphones and check out the audio demo below to hear it for yourself.
As always, keep in mind that these are generalizations. Your experience could be different depending on many factors.
The PB 57 has a true soft character that we ear as very reminiscent of an early vintage P. There is some scoop in the mid range, but it is just in the right place - notes retain a nice bounce. The top end is soft and friendly. Comparing a couple great vintage-voiced P pickups, the NP4V has a bit more mid range content.
Put on a good set of headphones and check out the audio demo below to hear it for yourself.
As always, keep in mind that these are generalizations. Your experience could be different depending on many factors.