Preamp for a 5 string PBass

Knifedge · #1 01-25-2010, 01:15 PM

I posted this question in another thread (I should have posted it in this thread) but I think my intentions were misunderstood (I don't think I explained it very well). Anyways, here goes:

I want to put a preamp in my 5 string Fender PBass. I am thinking of an Audere, but I don't think they make preamps for 5 string Pbasses.... do any of you out in bassland know of any preamps that can be put into a 5 string PBass? I don't want an external preamp...

Basically I bought a 5 string Fender Jazz... it came with Lindy Fralin pickups, and an Audere preamp built in it.. and it sounds freaking amazing. I want to do that for the Pbass.. any thoughts?

Webtroll · #2 01-25-2010, 01:21 PM

I don't see where the number of strings makes a difference. If you like the Audere why not see if they make one for a P? What is the knob configuration on your bass at this time? Traditional vol/tone?

Knifedge · #3 01-25-2010, 01:23 PM

Yep, traditional Vol/Tone.... not sure if the number of strings make a difference or not, I am thinking it may because of the lower frequencies that the unit has to amplify on a fiver, but I don't really know...

Webtroll · #4 01-25-2010, 01:38 PM

I've never seen a preamp marketed for 5 string basses but I'm not really an expert. The knob configuration would be important unless you are willing to drill extra holes. Have you checked Audere's offerings for a 2 knob/1 pickup configuration?

* Stores that carry Audere would be a good source to find what is available

cybersnyder · #5 01-25-2010, 01:41 PM

The definitely can do a single pickup preamp, it just won't be the drop in Jazz plate version. You may need to do some routing depending on how much space you have under the pickguard.

Knifedge · #6 01-25-2010, 02:00 PM

I took your advice, I called Audere.
He told me that I can install the 3ZB module easily in my bass. He also said that my bass' cavity should be
moe than enough room for the unit. Even if I have to route, I work in a custom machine shop as I am a journeyman machinist, so routing is not an issue.

Thanks For the direction folks...I very much appreciate it.

kraigo · #7 01-25-2010, 02:18 PM

The bigger question is "why would you want to?" But that's just me, I guess. I'd go with a buffer (no active EQ) like the Redeemer. I like the tone of a good P-Bass pickup and I want to do very little to it.

I loved the one Fender five string P-Bass I tried. Congrats on a nice bass! I am glad to know that you're keeping the mods reversible.

KO

Knifedge · #8 01-25-2010, 08:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kraigo

The bigger question is "why would you want to?" But that's just me, I guess. I'd go with a buffer (no active EQ) like the Redeemer. I like the tone of a good P-Bass pickup and I want to do very little to it.

I loved the one Fender five string P-Bass I tried. Congrats on a nice bass! I am glad to know that you're keeping the mods reversible.

KO

The plan is to put the preamp in the PBass, wired so that I can switch it from passive to active at the flick of a switch. I was assured by Audere that the preamp doesn't change the actual tone, just amplifies, and gives you the ability to shape it more to your liking.. The mod will be totally reversible, although I have no plans on selling any of my 5 strings (especially my 5 string Jazz and Pbass).

The reason for the mod? The Jazz and the PBass are my main instruments. Since one of them is preamped, using the passive bass would involve changing my amp sound quickly.. and would involve the soundman making adjustments as well.. I would either have both passive, or both active, and since I loved the sound and tone of the Jazz with the active, I want to do the same for the PBass.....

I know what you mean though about making the changes and why I would consider making those changes... my first bass guitar was a 4 string Squier PBass (sp?). My dad saved, saved and saved for that bass so I could have it... we ran into financial problems in a bad way, so I sold it to help out (I was 14 when I got the bass... sold it when I was 17). Buying the PBass is the "replacement", sentimentally... if faced with that situation again, I would sell the bass to help out in a heartbeat.... ok.. I am rambling....

At any rate, you can be assured that the PBass will go through nothing permanent as far as changes are concerned. Audere told me that the preamp fits the cavity perfectly...