LG3005 with OBP3 + Bart pups - problem with output level

[Roscoe6101]

Hi there

I am seeking some advice as to whether I have a problem with my preamp or the pups.

I purchased my LG3005 new and love the look, feel and sound of it, but I have noticed it does not have a very high output, particularly for an 18volt pre.

In a direct comparison with my Spector Euro, which has an OBP2 (boost only) & EMG pups, running them both flat (Spector - bass & trebble at 0 and Roscoe - bass, trebble & mid at centre) and my amp eq flat with the gain set just below peak; I need the -12db pad on for the Spector, while the Roscoe has the pad off for a similar output at the same gain setting. In fact, plugging my Fender passive Jazz 5 in at the same settings as the Roscoe and the output is similar. So essentially the active Roscoe has a similar out to a passive bass.

In using the Roscoe I find I need to cut the bass slightly to get clarity out of the B string, otherwise it is too muddy, which then reduces the output to the amp thus needing more gain. This is a bit annoying in a band situation as I am having to drive the power stage of the amp to the max.

Is this normal for an LG with an OBP3 and Barts? and yes, I have put in fresh batteries.

Thanks in advance
Rob

[VroomVroom]

I'm definitely no expert, but I'll suggest that there is indeed some sort of issue. "Low output" is not something I've ever associated with any Roscoe.

Has this been an issue from day one? Any feedback from your dealer?

[mwbonsall]

I have the same electronics in my Century, no problem with output or clarity. Sounds like a problem that can be fixed.

Mark

[Gard]

I'd be more inclined to think that the difference in output you are hearing is just a factor of the fact that the Spector has active pickups with an active preamp, while the Roscoe has passive pickups with an active preamp. EMG pickups are built with an internal op-amp that gives them a very hot output that the Barts don't have.

The OBP-3 is not a particularly high-output preamp, and does not have the gain control the Bartolini we offer does, unfortunately.

I don't think that you have any "issues" with either the pickups or the preamp, it's just the natural output level of that bass. I find myself "trimming" my Bart preamp equipped bass a bit to match the output of my Aggie OBP-3 bass.

I wish there were a simple answer other than, "use the 12 dB pad" with the Spector. There are a few other options, but they all require an external switching source that costs some dollars (say the Radial Tonebone switcher, which allows you to adjust the input gain for several sources). I'd just push the button....

[maurilio]

Gard is right. The OBP3 is design as unit output, means 0 gain when flat. Barts are not high output pups at all. If your roscoe's level is equal your passive jazz, you are in business. Now, if you have to turn down the bass ctrl because of muddiness with a roscoe, well this is a different topic. Bad strings, not so good sounding rig (I don't know your set up, neither eq set up).... maybe you should consider a pup changes?

M

[maurilio]

btw, 18v Vs. 9v doesn't mean more output. It only gives more headroom...

[Roscoe6101]

Thanks for your feedback guys. The passive v active pickups seems to make sense.

Living in Australia where Roscoe's are not available in music stores, only direct from the licenced importer, it is not possible to do comparative testing prior to purchase; one can only go by online reviews. Having said that, I don't regret my purchase, it is a beautiful work of art and sounds great. I was going to sell the Spector, but I think I will keep it for slap and use the Roscoe for fingerstyle, which what I predominately play.

[Gard]

...and since our Australian friend hasn't shared any photos, I extrapolated from his name what his bass was...I believe this is what he's got, and if so, man, that's one NICE bass!