I never found a J neck pickup would get me anywhere near a P tone and I think this would be in approx the same position as a J neck pickup. I'd feel more confident of getting the sound I want from a P pickup, i think. But at least, in theory, it will work. The Sterling ticks all the other boxes for my 5er requirements in that it is light, has a narrow neck and close string spacings. If I can get a P tone out of it I will be a happy fellow!