Aguilar AG Preamp/DI Pedal AGPREPEDAL Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Aguilar AG Preamp/DI pedal (Model AGPREPEDAL) is a versatile and transparent tone-shaping tool designed for bassists. It allows the natural voice of your bass to shine through while offering comprehensive equalization and powerful broadband boosts. This manual provides essential information for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Figure 1: Top view of the Aguilar AG Preamp/DI pedal, showcasing its controls and sleek black design.

2. Key Features

• Flexible 4-band EQ: Provides precise control over your bass tone with dedicated Bass, Low Mid, High Mid, and Treble controls.
• All Analog Ultra-Clean Preamp: Ensures a pristine signal path, preserving the natural sound of your instrument.
• Footswitchable Broadband Deep and Bright EQ Boosts: Offers instant tonal enhancements for added depth or clarity.
• Studio Quality DI: Features a high-quality Direct Inject output for connecting directly to mixing consoles or recording interfaces.

3. Controls and Connections

The AG Preamp/DI pedal features an intuitive layout of controls and essential connection points for seamless integration into your setup.

Figure 2: Detailed view of the control knobs and footswitches on the AG Preamp/DI pedal.

3.1. Front Panel Controls

• GAIN: Adjusts the input level of your instrument.
• TREBLE: Controls the high-frequency response.
• HIGH MID: Adjusts the upper-midrange frequencies.
• LOW MID: Adjusts the lower-midrange frequencies.
• BASS: Controls the low-frequency response.
• VOLUME: Sets the overall output level of the pedal.
• ENGAGE Footswitch: Activates or bypasses the preamp section. An LED indicates the active status.
• BRIGHT/DEEP Footswitch: Toggles between the Deep and Bright broadband EQ boosts. Separate LEDs indicate which boost is active.
• MIX (Headphone Output): 3.5mm stereo jack for connecting headphones.

3.2. Side Panel Connections

Figure 3: Side view showing the input, output, and XLR DI connections.

• INPUT: 1/4-inch instrument input jack.
• OUTPUT: 1/4-inch instrument output jack to connect to your amplifier.
• XLR OUT: Balanced XLR output for direct connection to a mixing console or audio interface.
• GND LIFT: Ground lift switch for the XLR output to eliminate hum.
• PRE/POST: Selects whether the XLR output signal is taken before (PRE) or after (POST) the EQ section. This affects the signal sent to the mixing console or audio interface.
• DC 18V: Power input for the required 18V DC power supply (center negative).

4. Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect an 18V DC power supply (center negative, 1000mA minimum recommended) to the "DC 18V" input jack. Ensure the power supply meets these specifications to prevent damage.
2. Instrument Connection: Connect your bass guitar to the "INPUT" jack using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
3. Amplifier Connection: Connect the "OUTPUT" jack to your bass amplifier's input using a 1/4-inch instrument cable.
4. DI Connection (Optional): For direct connection to a mixing console or audio interface, use an XLR cable to connect the "XLR OUT" to the desired input.
5. Headphone Connection (Optional): For silent practice, connect headphones to the "MIX" 3.5mm stereo jack.

5. Operating the AG Preamp/DI Pedal

5.1. Basic Operation

• Engaging the Preamp: Press the ENGAGE footswitch. The corresponding LED will illuminate, indicating the preamp is active.
• Adjusting Gain: Use the GAIN knob to set the input level. Start with a lower setting and increase gradually to achieve desired signal strength without clipping.
• Setting Output Volume: Use the VOLUME knob to control the overall output level.

5.2. Equalization (EQ)

The 4-band EQ allows for precise tonal shaping:

• BASS: Boosts or cuts low frequencies.
• LOW MID: Boosts or cuts lower-midrange frequencies.
• HIGH MID: Boosts or cuts upper-midrange frequencies.
• TREBLE: Boosts or cuts high frequencies.

5.3. Deep and Bright Boosts

The BRIGHT/DEEP footswitch activates broadband EQ boosts:

• Press the footswitch to cycle through Deep, Bright, or both boosts.
• Deep: Provides a broadband low-end boost for a fuller sound.
• Bright: Offers a broadband high-end boost for added clarity and presence.

5.4. Direct Inject (DI) Output

• PRE/POST Switch:
  • PRE: The XLR output signal is taken directly from the input, bypassing the pedal's EQ section. This is useful for sending a clean, unaffected signal to the front-of-house or recording.
  • POST: The XLR output signal includes the effects of the pedal's EQ and boosts. This allows you to send your shaped tone directly.
• GND LIFT Switch: Use this switch to break ground loops that may cause hum or noise in the XLR output. If you experience hum, try flipping this switch.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Power Supply: Always use the specified 18V DC (center negative) power supply. Using an incorrect power supply can damage the unit and void the warranty.
• Cable Care: Ensure all cables are in good condition and properly connected to prevent signal loss or damage.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Aguilar directly through their official website or authorized dealers. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.