Passive Bass vs Active Bass in Passive Mode

[dabbler]

Depends. Passive isn't necessarily 100% passive.

For example. My EHB1005SMS has a passive blend knob. This results in a volume dip when it's centred in passive mode, but maintains equal volumes in active mode. Other active basses I've had have a buffer that is still engaged in passive mode that fixes this issue.

I did not know some preamps did that, and though I see the attraction, I wouldn't want that. When I go to passive, I want normal passive behavior.

 

[DWA2469]

passive mode is simply a preamp bypass... so in practical terms it's the same as standard passive, only you typically don't get passive tone controls but many preamps include a passive tone these days which stays functional in passive more.

My Ultra II Jazz bass has a passive tone control when not active!

 

[lug]

I have 3 active basses with passive tone control. Sire V6, Fender Jaguar, and G&L L2000.

 

[Ric Vice]

With my Lakland 55-94's the passive circuit is more of a "fall back" incase the 9v Battery fails. I wouldn't want to play in that
mode for a whole set. Vs. my 59 Precision that has plenty of volume and tone as a passive instrument.