No
The preamp is so powerful and comprehensive, i find it hard to understand you cant get a tone you like with the same preamp, but because its ash, its that different.. If it was a passive bass, you might be able to hear nuances in tone. Even if the pickup spacing is 70's there isnt a huge difference..
i dont believe ash or alder make a huge difference in tone. The preamp and pickup windings have way more influence on tone.