Aguilar OBP-2SK Onboard Preamp

I bought this preamp for my Warwick 5strings fretless bass, loving the sound of the instrument but searching for "that kick" that I have on my Spector Legend 5 using EMG active electronics. I'm very very satisfied because this little gem boosts the sound without changing it, and now my bass really has the punch I wanted for rock and metal (yes metal!) leaving me free to return to jazz whenever I want! The only problem was on stacked potentiometers because of its 6/8mm shaft diameter; I have a 6/4mm knobs in my hand (knobs are not part of the kit so you must provide yourself)... but this is not a cons because change knobs was a matter of few secs. Five star to Aguilar OBP-2SK!

This preamp lived up to the Aguilar reputation as I installed it in my 5 String Warwick and it sounds amazing. The perfect upgrade for a passive Bass!

I'd have given this another star if it had the treble band EQ point where the OBP-1 is located. It's a bit higher than I'd normally want. I would have gone with an OBP-1, but having the ability to attenuate as well as boost is important, especially with the treble band. This is replacing a now-fried Bart Pre in an early Dingwall Voodoo Prima, and is wired at 18v for additional headroom. Easy installation, and the directions provided should be enough if you've got some basic skills & competency in soldering and wiring. My experience with this and the OBP-1 unit is that they're quiet (low noise floor) and fairly 'warm' tonally. 2x 9v batteries last 6+ months with regular practice, gigging & home rehearsal time.

If you have a blown active unit in your bass, or are just trying to spruce up a less quality one (like a MiM Fender, for example), this is the line of preamps you want. Just take care to get the one meant for the number of knobs your instrument has, and whether or not one or two are the 'stackable' type. I didn't realize when I ordered, but another perque is these are 18 volt models, which means you'll have to carve out space for a second 9 volt battery (although you can use it with just one when wired for it). I haven't yet gone back to retro-fit yet, but more juice can only mean more 'bang for your electronic buck', right? :-)

I bought this preamp for my 80 japan Squire Jazz bass, loving the sound of the instrument but searching for "that kick"on low and Hi Freq. what can I say? I'm very very happy, it boosts the sound without changing it, and now my bass really has the punch I wanted!

Really livened up a set of TV Jones Thunder'Trons that were just a bit too dull for my taste, without changing the character of the pickups. Good directions and easy to wire up if you're handy with a soldering iron. Included dual pot is a split post since that wasn't mentioned anywhere. Attached image is using a different dual pot.

Versatility and great tone! Definitely will be using aguilar products again in the future. Can I get some sponsorship from Aguilar?