Warwick owners! Aguilar OBP-3 vs MEC BEC III preamp side by side comparison!

Spfairchild · #1 01-02-2012, 11:58 PM

Using my SSII 5 string, I go through some variations between the two preamps in my latest Youtube vid. I installed the stock MEC preamp that came in my '08 Streamer Stage II into a pedal, just the same way that the pre would be wired into the bass, and have the Aggie OBP-3 installed in the bass itself. Both have a preamp bypass, allowing for a nice comparison.

In previous videos, some folks rightly criticized my choice to record the audio with a room mic, including the acoustics of the room and the character of the amp, so this time I recorded everything direct at 44.1khz.

I know which one I like more, so check out the video and let me know what your opinion is!

Warwick Preamp Comparison - Aguilar OBP-3 and MEC BEC III - YouTube

**crustychef** · #2 01-03-2012, 03:18 AM

Very nice work! I almost bought an OBP-3 for my Jazzman but then I just put in it passive and eq'd it on my Tone Hammer pedal and poof there it was. It's kind of the reverse of what you did. I like having both tonal palates available for sure.

Spfairchild · #3 01-03-2012, 05:35 PM

Thanks, my Seattle homeboy! Yeah, I know a lot of folks prefer outboard pre's. I actually like to be able to make all sound adjustments on my bass, and not really touch my amp - and I know many feel completely the opposite! I think that's also a big reason behind my tendency to like basses with many usable tones, rather than one-trick ponies. If I could just play one bass; just find the one, ideal 6 string, full of tonal versatility and fun/easy to play, I'd be in heaven! I'd never change instruments and I'd never touch my amp. But alas, they don't make a SSII 6 string...

**crustychef** · #4 01-03-2012, 05:51 PM

Yeah I don't really touch my amp either. It stays set flat 98% of the time. I love versatile basses which is why I have the Jazzman 5er. Between it, my fretless Thumb BO5 and the Tone Hammer I'm pretty set for tones. Not really gassing for any basses or gear for that matter. I'm kind of in a purge mode lately. I like traveling light and make only one trip.
2 Basses and my MB Fusion in my Mono bag Dual. TC RS212 and Small Pedal board on a collapsible hand truck and I'm good to go, do anything and play any style. Took a while and lot gear bought and sold to get here but I'd do it again to know just what I like and need.

Spfairchild · #5 01-04-2012, 10:50 AM

You've gotta love the one trip load-in/load-out. I may have to make two trips from time to time, but I try to keep things pretty portable, too!