Active Preamp Characteristics

[The Se3ker]

Hi everyone,

 

I'm interested in the distinct tonal qualities of different active preamps. For example, I've heard the Bartolini preamp described (in Bass Player magazine, actually) as being somewhat dark and midrange-focused. What are the unique characteristics of some of the other active preamps out there? I'm looking to get an active J-style bass with a maple fretboard and ash body, are there any particular preamps that would work particularly well with that setup? Thanks!

[wraub]

I have heard much good about the Audere pre, both on this forum and elsewhere.

Besides that, as I have an outboard pre, I got nothing.

Good luck.

 

Peace,

 

wraub

[jcadmus]

I don't think I'm technically astute enough to provide that kind of commentary.

 

I describe the Barts in my Pedulla as "juicy," and I'm pretty sure that's not especially helpful.

[WCriley]

An onboard preamp should not color the sound when the EQ controls are set "flat". (Other than to remove cable capacitance tone-suck.) But maybe "flat" is a relative term with preamps just as it is with amps?

 

I put an EMG BQS in my main bass. I noticed no difference between it and the preamp it replaced with the EQ controls centered.

[jeremy c]

I too have changed the preamp in several basses.

When the controls are set flat, there was no difference between the various preamps. I changed because of the various frequencies and slopes of the controls when used (and once to gain an added mid-range control).

 

A lot of people like the Audere preamp for Jazz basses.

 

I've got Barolini preamps in three of my basses, so now you know what I like.

[SteveC]

I had a Bart pre and it was not dark, maybe mid focused but in a good way. The Aguilar I have now is too clean. I have always preferred Bartolini.

 

I also used a J-Retro and Sadowsky. All have their "flavor" which is hard to describe.

[jeremy c]

Yes, J-Retro is another good choice.

You can also switch it out of the circuit which is a nice feature for a preamp.

 

There is a very subtle difference between the sound of a passive bass and the same bass with a preamp with the controls set flat. Some people can't hear it at all and some can.

[Davo-London]

I have 2 Audere pres. I regard them as clean and transparent. That is to say that they do what you want it to. The tone is coming hopefully from all the other components.

 

Davo

[The Se3ker]

Thanks for all of the help, I appreciate all of the info! I might lean towards an Audere preamp, especially because they have a good number of products focused towards J-style basses.

 

Also, thanks for clarifying that an onboard preamp's tone should be transparent.

[Davo-London]

I would also look at the Nordstrand pre.

 

Just because they produce brilliant PUs and so I imagine their preamps will be great as well.

 

Both Audere and Nordstrand are great companies to deal with.

 

Davo

[mcruiz67]

Hi,

This would be expensive but if you can try the same bass with different pre-amps......(I begged and borrowed)

My choice for what you described (jazz bass with ash body,maple f/board) is the J-Retro. For me it's the only one that can give you a 'Marcus' as well as a 'Family Man' sound. Two extremes!

Good Luck

 

[Paul K]

Greetings mcruiz67!

 

Wow! Registered for almost a year and you finally clicked your first post? Glad to have you aboard!