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converting a passive to active

Discussion in 'Hardware, Setup & Repair [BG]' started by (hed)-less, Nov 29, 2001.

  1. Nov 29, 2001 #1
    (hed)-less

    (hed)-less

    Aug 5, 2001
    Northern England
    is it possible to fully convert a passive bass to an active? ie: giving it active pickups (which is obvious, i know this bit), active preamp, a battery box, more tone and volume nobs, etc?
     
  2. Nov 29, 2001 #2
    JMX

    JMX Vorsprung durch Technik

    Sep 4, 2000
    Cologne, Germany
    You don't need active pickups.

    Most active basses have passive pickups and an active preamp/EQ.
    Usually an active upgrade comes with all the parts you need. On some basses you may need to modify the electronics cavity, but usually you can get sets that don't require mods (on Fenders).
    The J-Retro seems to be popular among Talkbassers, at least for Fender-style basses.
     
  3. Nov 29, 2001 #3
    Hambone

    Hambone

    Mar 18, 2000
    Atlanta/Loganville
    With a little skill and care, you can do it yourself. I just converted an inexpensive Samick fretless 5 into a tone monster with a Carvin preamp. Not to costly and excellent construction made it a pretty good deal. Works GREAT! IT's going to take some tools and the ability to solder but it can be done.
     
  4. Nov 30, 2001 #4
    MM

    MM

    Mar 20, 2000
    Los Angeles, California
    You might also consider an outboard preamp like the Sadowsky. No re-wiring to do if you go that route.