Well, I got them second-hand, but the chap at Catswhisker was very helpful.
What can I say, they sound really good, totally hum cancelling and I'm going to get another pair for one of my other jazzes soon.
My wife is quite happy for me to buy basses and quite often actively encourages me to buy instruments I like. I've just bought a new G&L, with her very vocal encouragement.
Your Matrimony May Vary
They are by no means essential, not by a long chalk. If you've tried a few and haven't got anywhere pleasing with them then it's possible you don't need one in your setup.
You could try Gemini Pickups, I've got a few of their pickups and I really like them.
If you're after hum-cancelling models, Catswhisker Pickups do some that I'm very impressed by.