EMG AB 220
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG5059
Description
EMG AB 220
The EMG AB 220 is a compact, single-channel active preamp engineered for recording and production work where transparent signal conditioning and precise gain staging are essential. Its ergonomic split shaft design fits comfortably into standard control cavities, and the detented gain positions provide reliable, repeatable settings across tracking sessions and mix iterations.
Signal Path & Impedance
The preamp presents a 250K Ohm input impedance and outputs through a 2K Ohm output stage, ensuring clean impedance matching with both active and passive pickups while minimizing loading effects in your signal chain. An exceptionally low -130dBV input-referred noise floor keeps recordings pristine, maintaining headroom for layering and stacking takes without noise accumulation.
Power & Gain Architecture
Running on a single 9-volt battery, the AB 220 delivers up to 250 hours of operating life per charge and supports supplies up to 18 volts DC for extended dynamic range during critical sessions. The +20dB maximum gain with detented positions at +8dB and +15dB allows precise level control and consistent recall across multiple takes without continuous adjustment hunting.
Key Features
- Input Impedance: 250K Ohms
- Input Referred Noise: -130dBV
- Output Impedance: 2K Ohms
- Maximum Gain: +20dB with detented positions at +8dB and +15dB
- Current Draw @ 9V: 980 Microamps
- Battery Life: 250 hours
- Maximum Supply: 18 Volts DC
- Power Source: Single 9-volt battery
- Connector Type: 5-pin connector
- Shaft Style: Split Shaft, Short Shaft (Strat) 10mm
- Output Jack: Stereo type with battery switching
- Compatible with active or passive pickups on guitar or bass
The AB 220 combines low noise, practical gain staging, and battery efficiency in a format that integrates seamlessly into most instrument electronics cavities.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG AB 220 is a transparent, low-noise single-channel preamp that sits invisibly in your signal chain, conditioning gain and impedance without adding character or artifacts to your recordings. Home recordists and producers value its detented gain positions for instant recall across takes, exceptionally low input-referred noise (-130dBV) that keeps sessions clean, and seamless compatibility with active or passive pickups on guitar or bass. It's the go-to tool for transparent signal conditioning when you need gain staging that stays out of the way of your tone.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Home Recording
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Gigging
- ✓ Live Performance
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the EMG AB 220 and comparable models like the SPC or BTS?
The AB 220 is designed as a single-channel transparent preamp with fixed detented gain positions (+8dB and +15dB) and exceptionally low noise (-130dBV input-referred). Compare against the SPC and BTS by matching your specific gain-shaping and feature needs; the AB 220 excels at clean, reliable gain conditioning with long battery life and straightforward controls.
Will the AB 220 work with my passive pickups, or does it require active pickups?
The AB 220 is fully compatible with both active and passive pickups on guitar or bass, thanks to its 250K Ohm input impedance that minimizes loading effects on your instrument. This flexibility makes it a universal upgrade whether you're running stock passive electronics or aftermarket active systems.
How long does a 9-volt battery last, and can I use a higher voltage supply?
A single 9V battery delivers up to 250 hours of operating life, roughly a month of regular use. The AB 220 also supports supplies up to 18 volts DC if you want extended headroom and plan to use an external power source.
Can I recall the exact same gain setting every time I play?
Yes; the AB 220 features detented positions at +8dB and +15dB, plus a maximum of +20dB, so you can lock in your preferred gain and return to it instantly across sessions, gigs, and recordings without guessing.
What output impedance does the AB 220 present to my amp or interface?
The preamp outputs through a 2K Ohm output stage, ensuring compatibility with standard instrument cables and the input stages of amplifiers, interfaces, and recording chains.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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