Okay, so I have a rather nice 5 string jazz bass, which was passive.

I decided that I would like to install an active EQ circuit, biut one of my big bugbears with active systems is the way that sometimes the high end can be rather "harsh" and spoils the natural tone of the instrument.

So, I spoke to Martin Peterson at The Gallery and we used a new system by John East of J-Retro fame. John came up with the idea of using separate module boards for bass, middle and treble. I guess the idea is kind of along the "hi-fi separates" thing - having each frequency band allocated to a dedicated board means it can be controlled with greater clarity.

Anyhow, you can select the frequency upon which the control operates, and vary the bandwidth as well. These parameters are adjusted via small trim-pots on the circuit board. this leaves the control knob on the instrument face to simply adjust the cut/boost amount needed.

Being able to slect the frequency you want to adjust means that you can tailor the EQ system to best suit the inherent sound of your instrument - wonderful feature. the end result is that I now have a gorgeous sounding system on-board, which, even if I fully boost the treble EQ, isn't painful on the ears - yippee!!!

If you are looking for a new EQ system on your bass, or think the one you have right now isn't quite what you are looking for, the maybe you could consider these units? I know I am NOT disappointed in mine!!!

Amazing system. I think John will have something on his website soon about them.
http://www.j-retro.co.uk/jrhome.htm