Interesting thread. I like the idea of lighter strings on my Washburn status/steinberger .
When I got both set up a few years ago, the tech couldn't find any light gauges so both of mine are normal gauge.
I think that the sound would be the same, but your fingers may appreciate the difference.
I wouldn't bother changing pickups on the hohner. For what it's worth, it wouldn't make much difference IMHO . I used to have a hohner stick bass. Great action, but the sound was not in same league as Washburn status.
Got a much more superior sound on my steinberger, which I got to replace it.