I installed an EMG-45CS and 45DC with a Aguilar OPB-3 wired to 18V last December. I hear people say that the batteries last almost a year. For me it was about 4 months and the output gets weak and distorts a little. I use it about 35-30 hours a week. Is it something wired wrong or are they just eating through batteries?:confused:


(no i don't leave it plugged in when I'm not using it):rolleyes:

I'd bet that those whose batteries lasted a year aren't using their bass as much as you are. 4 months seems reasonable to me, but I'm no expert.

Remember that different preamps will use different amounts of power. Also remember that some preamps handle lower power better than others (ie the signal doesnt weaken or distort as much). 4 months when being used as much as you used it seems reasonable to me.

I usually get ~9 months in the more actively used basses ive got, but even they are hardly being used these days :(

well if you use the EMG with no other active preamp, you may get a year, add a preamp to that picture and you get a voltage drop quicker

My batteries also seem to last about 4 months or so. I listen for distortion or lack of deep bottom as a hint that I need to change the battery.
Sometimes the jacks get worn and don't disconnect when you unplug. That can also drain the battery quicker than usual.
Good luck! :D

My batteries also seem to last about 4 months or so. I listen for distortion or lack of deep bottom as a hint that I need to change the battery.
Sometimes the jacks get worn and don't disconnect when you unplug. That can also drain the battery quicker than usual.
Good luck! :D
Ive never heard of that happening, that would mean the R and S connectors of the socket would need to short

My batteries also seem to last about 4 months or so. I listen for distortion or lack of deep bottom as a hint that I need to change the battery.


That is the same thing I have been doing, well at least I'm not crazy and didn't F up the wiring when I did it.

You should always buy Alkaline batteries and make sure there is no instrument cable plugged into your bass when not in use. Even if you unplug the cable from the amp, you still need to unplug it from the bass.