EMG PA-2.. any users?

[Duke of Metal]

hey guys,
I was thinking of picking up the EMG PA-2 to add on my Epi Lespaul custom.

Basicly 1 of the reasons I thought about that one is even if I dont use it as a booster, I can use it as a signal booster to be able to run long cable runs. Sorta like EMG pickups idea with built-in preamp.

The other reason is to try it as a booster for my rig. Its pretty simple and straight forward to use. adjust the trimpot (set and forget) and turn the switch on/off.

How is the Boost on it? does it work well with Highgain amps? high output pickups?

Also, how does it compare to the EMG Afterburner? They seem to be pretty much the same idea except the PA-1 is a switch & a trimpot and the AB is an adjustable Pull/Push Pot.

oh.. and when wiring either one, do they just get wired right before the output jack? or they have to be setup somewhere specific?

Any info would help.


Thanks

 

[jmh151]

Re: EMG PA-2.. any users?

I have the PA-2 installed on my Les Paul with EMG 81/85, comparing it to a TS-9 tubescreamer it sounds a bit thin as a Booster. It seems to work better with passive pickups.

Personally I'd use a pedal like the MXR Zakk Wylde, Tubesceamer, Boss SD-1, and just leave the tone neutral, turn off the drive and max out the level/output

 

[frankfalbo]

Re: EMG PA-2.. any users?

I plan on making a buffer/booster pedal out of the Bartolini TC-5 preamp. It's the same concept, I just prefer Bartolini's circuits. Plus with the Bartolini, I can have a mini toggle to select the midrange boost frequency, or set it for a full range boost. I would mostly use it as a buffer, though.

I want to build it into my A/B box, so that regardless of what guitar I choose it's always on. Then perhaps have a toggle bypass, toggle mid frequency select, and footswitchable boost. If you do it that way, you won't be tied to any certain guitar. But if you're making a super-long cable run from the guitar to the pedal, then it would be better inside the guitar.

 

[Duke of Metal]

Re: EMG PA-2.. any users?

I have the PA-2 installed on my Les Paul with EMG 81/85, comparing it to a TS-9 tubescreamer it sounds a bit thin as a Booster. It seems to work better with passive pickups.

Personally I'd use a pedal like the MXR Zakk Wylde, Tubesceamer, Boss SD-1, and just leave the tone neutral, turn off the drive and max out the level/output

Thanks for the info.

Currently I am using the MXR Microamp as a clean boost/gain boost.

What I am looking for is something that will help with the long cable runs so I dont loose signal or tone when running something like 20' or more of cable between my guitar and the 1st pedal.

I thought If I could combine the 2 by using 1 unit like the PA-2 or the Afterburner, then It'd be a good idea.


Cheers