Aguilar PREAMPLIS BASSES OBP 3 BDES STACK TB-BS POT + MID PUSH PULL

A preamp designed to shape the sound at the source

This active 3-band preamp is designed to offer musical and precise control directly in the instrument, with effective EQ and well-chosen frequency points. The 400/800 Hz selector allows you to instantly switch from a round and "full" low-mid to a more biting and articulated midrange, ideal for adapting to a change in style, playing, or mix without touching the amp.

Who is it for, and in what contexts?

This module is aimed at guitarists and especially bassists who want a versatile active sound, capable of going from clean hi-fi tones to more aggressive and present settings. It suits both musicians seeking simplicity (an effective set-and-forget) and more meticulous players who want to adjust their place in the band during rehearsals, on stage, or in recording.

In live situations, the generous boost/cut helps compensate for challenging acoustics or a variable backline. In the studio, the 18 V option provides a very welcome extra dynamic range for sharp attacks (slap, pick, chords) and strong signals, while maintaining solid lows and controlled highs.

Controls, ergonomics, and key points

The EQ is based on a combined bass/treble potentiometer (bass and treble on the same control) and a separate mid potentiometer, plus a push/pull to select the mid frequency. This is a very efficient approach to save space in the electronics cavity while keeping quick adjustments on stage.

The circuit offers a 1 Megohm input impedance to preserve the upstream signal, and a 100 ohm output impedance to easily drive a chain (DI, amp, interface) without loss of definition. The power supply accepts both 9 V and 18 V, with 6 dB more headroom at 18 V for better transient handling and cleaner sound.

The sound

The sonic signature is that of a modern active preamp : deep and controlled lows, highs that add air without becoming harsh, and especially a very useful mid stage to "place" the instrument. At 400 Hz, you enhance body and warmth (ideal for fingerstyle playing, heavy rock, or thickening a bridge pickup). At 800 Hz, you gain presence, attack, and clarity (perfect for cutting through a dense mix, slap playing, or a more contemporary sound).

At 18 V, the feel is more open and stable when pushing the EQ: the sound stays cleaner, with better respected dynamics. The result is a very musical shaping tool that responds well to the right hand and level variations, without giving the impression of a "compressed" sound.

Technical specifications

Category	bass preamp	EQ	3 channels
Technology	Solid state

Bass control	+/- 18 dB at 40 Hz	Additional gain	+6 dB at 18 V
Mid control	+/- 16 dB at 400 Hz or 800 Hz (selectable)	Power supply	9 V or 18 V
Treble control	+/- 16 dB at 6.5 kHz	Autonomy	324 hours
Input impedance	1 Megohm	Required voltage	9 V or 18 V
Output impedance	100 ohm	Consumption	approximately 2 mA (estimate based on stated autonomy)
Distortion	0.19 dBm at 10k ohms	Dimensions	25 x 25 x 15 mm