Mesa Boogie active/passive Switch

JJT247 · #1 12-05-2011, 05:07 PM

Hello, I recently ordered a mesa boogie big block 750.
However, I found out that the newer models have an active/passive switch and the used model I ordered does not have it.
I play an active 6 string Ibanez bass and was wondering if i should cancel the order.
Will not having the switch negatively affect my tone? Is it very important? Thanks

Alex1984 · #2 12-05-2011, 05:11 PM

Normally the rule of thumb as I've been told is to use the passive unless if your bass is REALLY hot and clipping the amp a lot. For me, even my G&L through the passive input was still okay. I wouldn't worry too much. Also, on those older models, they might have 2 input jacks.

JJT247 · #3 12-05-2011, 05:13 PM

thats good news, I was stressing through the roof because this is my first real amp purchase. Thanks

georgestrings · #4 12-05-2011, 05:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJT247

Hello, I recently ordered a mesa boogie big block 750.
However, I found out that the newer models have an active/passive switch and the used model I ordered does not have it.
I play an active 6 string Ibanez bass and was wondering if i should cancel the order.
Will not having the switch negatively affect my tone? Is it very important? Thanks

If it doesn't have the switch, it'll have 2 separate input jacks - one "passive", one "active" - I would use the one that works best for you, regardless of how it's labeled... I play both passives and actives, and have never needed or wanted to use an "active" input - none of my basses have ever been too hot for a typical passive amp input...

- georgestrings

JJT247 · #5 12-05-2011, 05:17 PM

Thanks!! im looking forward to shaking the house with my first real amp!!

Baird6869 · #6 12-05-2011, 05:21 PM

I have almost never used the active input on any of my amps. Preamp or not.

I WOULD want to ensure I got the latest version of the amp if buying new though. especially with Mesa as they have release some garbage 1st revision amps in the past.

JJT247 · #7 12-05-2011, 05:35 PM

Im not buying it new - im getting it used

ishouldbeking · #8 12-05-2011, 06:22 PM

I wouldn't worry about it. Like georgestrings said, there will be a second jack for active inputs if it doesn't have the switch. And also, just like he said, I've never once used the active switch or input on a mesa. It's only really needed if you're hammering the input section with a really hot active bass or boosting a lot of low end on your bass's preamp. My LTD Surveyor w/ active EMG's and a 3 band preamp is fine through the passive input.