Does the Aguilar DB924 Outboard Preamp suck?

I've got one, and I like it. I don't think you could attach it to your strap without some major rigging, and even then, it's pretty big. More like small stompbox size than large wireless pack. Too big, I'd say.

I like the boost it imparts. It's perfect for cranking up a passive, but as for fretless- you've only got 2 frequencies to adjust. 40 and 4k hz aren't exactly the tone zone for optimum fretless flavor, but it will definitely add gain to your signal. The EQ is quite smooth and tasty, but I think there might be better DI's for fretless...

right now my favorite DI is the J-retro Stompbox.
It sounds GOOD! Costs a little more than the Aggie though.
Lots of info here: Jretro forum on the dudepit

 

I'm real happy with the box. It's built like a tank and very easy to use. I've found it to be very quiet and not affected by RF noise. And it's also very transparent.

The only real issues I might have is that it would be nice if it had a toggle switch to turn it off and on. Kind of a active/passive setting. Also wish that it had boost without affecting the overall EQ for passive pickups that just need more output, like my Geddy Lee Jazz.

There was an aggrevating issue that I had awhile ago, when changing batteries. I had a heck of a time getting the second battery to snap into the connectors when the first one was in place.

I'm sending mine up to the boys in Seattle that are running the Basstasters testing so that they can record some clips from it. So if you want to hang tight for the clips to be posted it will give you a chance to hear it compared to the Sadowsky box.

The Sadowsky outboard preamp is certainly another one to look at. Great stuff from Roger.

 

HI!

Get the Sadowsky preamp/DI stomp box. You won't regret it for a moment. You'll end up running all your basses through it!!

Rob

 

I have a DB 924 but I quit using it when I went to an active bass. It was a great tool for passive basses and I highly recommend it. It seemed to do more for J's than for P's for some reason. As for the comparison to the Sadowsky box it's tough to compare because the circuitry is identical.The Sadowsky was designed by the same guy who designed the Aguilar.You would be happy with either one.

 

I do. I even run my active basses (set flat of course) through it. AMAZING tone to an amp or straight to the board.

 

I have to correct this as it is not correct. Although Alex did the prototyping and for me back in 1989, the Aguilar pre is not identical to the Sadowsky at all. The Aguilar is an 18 volt system with 18db of boost. The Sadowsky is a 9 volt system with 13 db of boost. And although the frequency centers are in the same place, the tone is different between the two. The Aguilar sounds like an Aguilar and the Sadowsky sounds like a Sadowsky. And aside from tone, the Sadowsky has many more features.

It is not tough to compare at all, especially if you can A-B both. Since I sell mine on 7 day approval, you can purchase the Sadowsky and then take it to the shop selling the Aguilar and do a direct A-B yourself. Just return the Sadowsky within 7 days if it is not the right preamp for you and I will give you a refund. I

Roger Sadowsky