Detail 01
Onboard, not a pedal
It lives in the control cavity and runs on battery power, so the signal is boosted before it hits the cable.
Product detailSKU #1274115053157
AguilarOBP-3TK/PP Onboard Bass Preamp
metalthrashprogressive metalfunkjazzfusion
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
An Aguilar onboard bass preamp that installs inside the instrument. For bass players who want active EQ control at the bass instead of at the amp.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Passive basses you want running active without swapping pickups
- Players who adjust tone mid-set from the instrument
- Gigs where you plug into unfamiliar backline amps nightly
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Anyone shopping for an amplifier; this mounts inside the bass
- Players unwilling to route wood, solder, or pay a tech
- Bassists who want a fully passive signal path
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Preamp, not a pickup
It reshapes EQ and output. Your existing pickups still set the core voice of the bass.
Detail 03
OBP-3TK/PP model suffix
The suffix identifies the control and pot configuration. Confirm it matches the knob layout you plan to wire.
Detail 04
Active output
Hotter and lower impedance. Long cable runs lose less high end, but some inputs need padding.
Detail 05
$179.99
Parts only. Shop installation labor is separate unless you do the wiring yourself.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01You need a battery and somewhere to put it; check cavity space first
- 02Count your pot holes and shaft sizes; the layout has to match
- 03Installation means soldering, so budget for a tech if you don't wire
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Is this an amplifier?
No. It is an onboard preamp that installs inside a bass guitar. You still need an amp or DI to be heard.
02Will it work with my pickups?
Onboard preamps take the signal from your existing pickups. Check that the model's wiring layout matches your pickup configuration before ordering.
03Do I need a battery?
Yes. Onboard preamps are active and draw power from a battery mounted inside the instrument. Unplug the cable when not playing to save it.
04Can I install it myself?
If you can solder and your bass has cavity room for the preamp and battery, yes. Otherwise a tech install is the safer route.
