I have a Frankenstein P Bass. I recently installed an EMG P (active). I have a bass with an active preamp, and had no problems. The situation now is the pickups have more output than my current amp can handle. Is there a wattage minimum, or something of that nature that I can look for before buying. I don't have very good guitar shops locally, so most of my purchases are recommendations. I play classic rock, and 80's Thrash. Combo amp for $500 max is what I need. Thanks!
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Combo amp recommendation for active pickups
- Thread starter WoodyH
- Start date
Nearly all basses have a volume control that is capable of attenuating the signal to inaudibility. If your bass has a volume control you should be able to use it with any bass amp. If you feel it necessary to play your bass with the volume set to max, then a new amp with an 'active' input will solve your problem.
Nothing to do with wattage.
It's the input gain on the amp. If your amp has a gain or input volume, use it. If it's got an active input, you can try using that. If it's got an input pad switch, try pressing it.
It's the input gain on the amp. If your amp has a gain or input volume, use it. If it's got an active input, you can try using that. If it's got an input pad switch, try pressing it.
Just buy a Fender Rumble 500 combo for $550 from your favorite e-tailer. It'll do you proud every time. Then come join our happy group over at the Fender Rumble Club. Where the Good Times Roll!
A new amp is an extreme solution to a simple problem. If you really want to run your bass's volume control at max, any competent tech will be able to pad down the bass's output level - 10 cents in parts and 10 minutes work.
My recommended solution is far simpler, and cheaper still: just turn the volume down on the bass. No need for a tech or a new amp.
