EMG371 vs EMG87 — Compare
EMG Stacked Bass/Treble Control (1 Potentiometer vs EMG 20dB Mini Toggle Boost- adjustable on trim pot- can be used with active or passive pickups
The EMG BTC is a dual-channel EQ control for comprehensive tone shaping (bass and treble simultaneously), while the EMG PA2 is a single-channel boost preamp for transparent gain staging. The BTC suits players needing sculpted, programmable EQ; the PA2 suits those wanting a simple, switchable volume/tone lift for solos or signal conditioning.
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EMG Stacked Bass/Treble Control (1 Potentiometer
EMG 20dB Mini Toggle Boost- adjustable on trim pot- can be used with active or passive pickups
Specs side by side
| EMG Stacked Bass/Treble Control (1 Potentiometer | EMG 20dB Mini Toggle Boost- adjustable on trim pot- can be used with active or passive pickups | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $119.00 | $89.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG Stacked Bass/Treble Control (1 Potentiometer
- ✓ Dual bass and treble EQ in one potentiometer footprint
- ✓ Programmable treble across four preset frequencies (2.1 kHz to 7 kHz)
- ✓ ±12dB surgical gain/attenuation on both channels
- ✓ Supports up to 27V DC for extended headroom
Why choose EMG 20dB Mini Toggle Boost- adjustable on trim pot- can be used with active or passive pickups
- ✓ Simple, solderless installation ready to wire
- ✓ Works equally well with passive or active pickups
- ✓ Up to 20dB adjustable boost via trim pot
- ✓ Longest battery life (approximately 1725 hours at 9V/18V)
Frequently asked questions
Which one should I pick for live performance boost?
The PA2 is better for live boost—it's a simple toggle-switched gain lift up to 20dB, designed for instant solo pushes. The BTC is more suited to permanent bass and treble sculpting rather than real-time switching.
Do both work with passive pickups?
The PA2 explicitly supports passive or active pickups with its 500k Ohm input impedance. The BTC is designed for active bass systems and is not ideal for passive instruments, as stated in its product profile.
What is the key difference in tone shaping?
The BTC offers comprehensive, programmable dual-band EQ (±12dB bass at 20Hz, ±12dB treble at four selectable frequencies). The PA2 is a transparent boost preamp with minimal coloration—it adds level, not tone shaping.
Which draws less battery power?
The PA2 draws only 290 microamps and runs approximately 1725 hours per battery. The BTC draws 600 microamps and runs approximately 750 hours—the PA2 is more efficient for extended portable use.