Much like a gallon of paint brightens up a room, installing an active preamp into a bass will open up the onboard capabilities that are available to the user. At the top end of tonal options sits the Seymour Duncan STC-3 Active Tone Circuit. A combination of tonal controls and customization options make this active tone circuit an ideal replacement for your existing setup, or for a new build.

The Seymour Duncan STC-3 Active Tone Circuit allows the musician to boost or cut treble, middle and bass frequencies that are specifically selected for electric bass. It also features the proprietary Slap Contour push/pull switch, which engages a preset setting optimum for that scooped slap bass sound. The contour can be tweaked via the internal trim pots on the circuit board. In addition, the preamp can be run at 9v or 18v, if you require more headroom.

It comes pre-assembled with instructions that make it easy for the casual DIYer and soldering iron wielder to have great success. I was able to swap out the existing preamp with the STC-3a in my Warwick Streamer LX Broadneck six-string bass in about 45 minutes. Initial impressions were very good; it sounded much like the stock preamp did, but a little darker overall. The mid control brought out a lot of the character inherent in a Warwick bass, whether it was boosted or cut. The bass and treble controls seem to be voiced a little lower than the stock ones were, but that allows the preamp to work with the qualities of the instrument.

The Seymour Duncan STC-3 Active Tone Circuit is an excellent upgrade to your current bass, or as a foundation in a new build. With a number of options and customizations, this preamp is sure to become indispensable in your tonal footprint.