Pedal Question

[erickdan]

Here's my example set up:

1/4 cable from bass in to a Q-tron, cable from there in to a Bigg Muff Pi and from there in to a JoeMeek channel strip.

My question is, if the channel strip has the one of those input pad buttons which you use when using an active bass, should I use it when I switch from a passive bass to an active one at the beginning of the signal chain? Or do the pedals themselves have some effect on the signal that would make it unneccesary?

 

[bongomania]

The pad is there to reduce the level of the signal going into the preamp, to avoid clipping at that input. You only need to use it when you observe clipping- regardless of active, passive, pedals, or no pedals.

 

[erickdan]

Is the signal level coming out of a pedal w/o a preamp higher if using an active bass then?

 

[bongomania]

Active/passive has nothing inherently to do with signal level. Pedals (as such) also do not inherently increase or decrease signal level. FWIW 99.99% of pedals are active.

Active means "needs a power supply". Passive means "doesn't need a power supply". That's it.

Now, as it happens, preamp manufacturers do often use power to create an increase in signal level. That's why amps have the words "active" and "passive" printed next to the jacks or pad switch. It's not really because of active/passive, it's just a convenience for people who can't figure out whether the signal level coming out of their bass is high enough to cause clipping.

Similarly, you shouldn't wonder whether the signal level coming out of a pedal is higher or lower- you should listen and observe.

Preamps and pedals (in general) are just as capable of cutting the signal level as boosting.

 

[erickdan]

I appreciate the help bongo!

The FAQ's as well. They got bookmarked real quick!