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Ibanez BTB pickups-preamp, same then as now?

Discussion in 'Basses [BG]' started by coyote1, Apr 13, 2012.

  1. Apr 13, 2012 #1
    coyote1

    coyote1

    Mar 23, 2012
    OK. Having played a BTB1206 Prestige, it is awesome. But it is also used, and expensive for a used instrument. Meanwhile, the BTB776 seems very comparable. Same neck-thru design, same mahogany body (different top), same fretboard radius, etc.

    But the 1206 has Bartolini 'Custom' pups, while the 776 has MK-2 pups that Ibanez also claims were specially designed for them. I played a new 5-string BTB, and it sounded awful. The used Prestige, otoh, sounds spectacular. Could be it was dead batteries, or just a defective unit, or whatever. Or it could be there's a big diff in the pups & preamp.

    I tried to pose the question direct to Ibanez, but their inquiry page crashes every time. So then. To anyone that has played both: Are the BTB776 pickups/electronics the same, or very similar, or significantly different from the BTB1206 Prestige?
     
  2. Apr 13, 2012 #2
    coyote1

    coyote1

    Mar 23, 2012
    Don't usually do this.... but BUMP

    really need the info if it is available
     
  3. Apr 20, 2012 #3
    tercesyrev

    tercesyrev Supporting Member

    Oct 12, 2006
    Chicago, IL
    Yes I've played both. The BTB 1205 & 1206e Prestige series are phenomenal basses, hence their good resale value. I had the 1205e and regret everyday selling it. IMO the MK 2 pickups and preamp in the 776 or the 676 don't compare. I tried a 676 for a couple weeks recently, overall a nice bass t but unfortunately the sound was not even close to the Prestige nor did it have that refined fit and finish of the Prestige.

    So if you're looking for the Prestige sound and feel get a used Prestige. Plus it won't depreciate as a 776 or 676 will
     
  4. Apr 20, 2012 #4
    viciousnemesis

    viciousnemesis

    Jan 4, 2012
    I completely agree. I've diddled around with the other btb's in stores, and have always been astonished that it doesn't sound any where near what the 1205 sounds like. Definitely go that route, and you won't be let down.
     
  5. Jun 14, 2015 #5
    bass-crazy-boi

    bass-crazy-boi

    Dec 31, 2010
    louisiana
    I just installed the aguilar obp-3 pre amp and I still have the stock mk2's any suggestions for some tested pups beside the dbc's