AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Bartolini Pickups for 6-String Basses 2026
The top pick is Bartolini P46CBC-T Classic 6-String P4 Soapbar Bridge Bass Pickup ($178). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 3 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 3
Full detail for the 3 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
Bartolini P46CBC-T Classic 6-String P4 Soapbar Bridge Bass Pickup
6-Str P4 Soapbar Neck BK · Bartolini
2 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Strings6-string
This is a neck position pickup for 6-string basses, with two coils wired in parallel and a focused 90 mm detection width. If you want a classic bass sound and a black pickup for the neck spot, it is a solid match for you. Keep in mind that screws and springs are not included, so plan to pick those up before you install it.
Pros
- Passive humbucker with two parallel coils for a classic bass sound
- Magnets are carbon steel, brass, copper and ferrite ceramic blade magnets
- Neck position with a focused 90 mm maximum detection width
Cons
- Ships without screws and springs, so you need to get mounting hardware separately
88AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$178 now$178€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Bartolini P46CBC-T Classic 6-String P4 Soapbar Bridge Bass Pickup
6-string Bass MK Soapbar BB · Bartolini
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Strings6-string
You get a bridge-position soapbar humbucker for six-string bass, with two parallel coils and reversed coil polarity. It is an upgrade for MK-1 format basses from brands like Ibanez, Cort and Lakland, so you can swap it in if your bass already uses that format. It suits you if you want a versatile classic bass sound and your bass takes MK-1 format pickups.
Pros
- Soapbar humbucker design with two parallel coils for a classic bass sound
- Magnets made of carbon steel, brass, copper and ceramic blade (ferrite) magnets
- Upgrade fit for Ibanez, Cort, Groove Tools, Lakland and other basses with MK-1 format pickups
Cons
- Screws and springs are not included, so you will need to get them for mounting
82AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$183 now$183€164 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings6-string
This bridge pickup sounds full, warm, and deep like vintage gear. The two types of magnets and opposing coils work together to keep the tone rich and clear. It is a solid choice for upgrading your Squire Affinity J-Bass, though you will need to buy the mounting hardware yourself.
Pros
- Dual inline coil design delivers full, warm, deep vintage tone
- Hum suppression circuit keeps noise down in noisy environments
- Carbon steel and ferrite magnets ensure consistent magnetic pull
Cons
- Screws and springs must be bought separately for installation
- High DC resistance of 9kOhm may require specific amp settings
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$173 now$173€155 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Pickups for 6-String Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 9 models we track, not a sample.
median of 9 models · 6-string–6-string
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 6 pickups for 6-String basses from the Thomann catalogue (of 9 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What should I look for when buying pickups for 6-string basses?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on pickups for 6-string basses?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive pickups for 6-string basses worth the investment?
Higher-priced pickups for 6-string basses typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for pickups for 6-string basses?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy pickups for 6-string basses online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
