Boscoe GLL2K - G&L L•2000 Series Bass Preamp Replica

Overview:

This is a reproduction of the G&L L•2000 series Tri-Tone bass preamp, based off the latest 1.3 version. It's made with modern manufacturing methods and uses screw terminals to easily attach connections without soldering.

I'm a bass player and computer geek and a huge fan of the less-common Leo Fender designs. When it was announced that G&L had closed its doors, people started posting online, asking where they might get replacement parts.

I've had a lot of experience manufacturing and selling classic Music Man StingRay preamps for a couple of years now, so now that these are no longer available I'm making these available.

These are exact reproductions of the 1.3 version of the G&L bass preamp used in the following basses:

• L•1500
• L•1505
• L•2000
• L•2500
• ASAT
• Climax

Whereas the original G&L preamps were all hand soldered circuits, the GLL2K is professionally manufactured using surface mounted components at the highest tolerances available (for example, almost every resistor is within 1%). The original, no longer manufactured LM4250CN opamp is used to guarantee that classic sound.

By way of comparison, the Tribute series preamps use resistors with 5% tolerances and the inferior (for this application) TL061CP opamp. The GLL2K preamp will perform just as well as the USA made preamps, if not better.

Design goals:

• Must reproduce the exact circuit used in the G&L version 1.3 bass preamp
• Must use the original, now discontinued LM4250CN opamp that's key to the distinctive sound and phenomenal battery life. The opamp is installed in a socket so it has never been exposed to the heat of a soldering iron. This also allows one to experiment with alternative opamps should one desire.
• Use screw terminals instead of soldered on wires to make installation easier
• Incorporate modern surface mounted electronics
• Attractive silk screening with clearly labeled terminals

Preamp Dimensions:

Due to the modern manufacturing methods and surface mounted components, this preamp is smaller than the G&L originals and measures only 40mm x 18mm x 11mm.

Installation notes:

Note that a wire stripper capable of stripping 22-26 gauge wire is required, as is a 1.5mm to 2mm (1/16" to 5/64") precision flathead screwdriver.

This is a drop in replacement for your existing G&L bass preamp. Simply open up your control cavity or remove your control plate and follow the following steps:

• Ensure that all of the new preamp's screw terminals are open by turning them counterclockwise with your screwdriver
• Disconnect the battery and remove any inserted instrument cables
• Unwrap your existing preamp from its foam enclosure
• Cut or desolder the existing wires, paying attention to their color and where they run
• Strip the insulation so that 5mm of bare wire is exposed
• Insert the wires into their corresponding screw terminals - each one is labeled on the back of the preamp
• Use your screwdriver to tighten each screw terminal - be careful to not hold onto the capacitors (taller round things) when tightening as they can break
• Carefully pack the preamp back into the cavity and close it up - the existing foam wrapper can be reused

Note that the wire colors can be inconsistent. Best to move them to the new preamp one at a time and take a picture of your wiring before starting.

My website has more information available: boscoemusic.com

Final notes:

Unfortunately I do not accept returns or refund requests as it's easy to damage the preamp if you're careless or don't know what you're doing. This preamp was designed to be as durable as possible and each one is individually tested before shipment. I want your project to be a success so if you have any issues please let me know and I will do my best to help you.

This includes only the preamp. You will need to have a wire stripper and precision flathead screwdriver. Any precision screwdriver set will work. As far as wire strippers go, I heavily recommend the Klein 11057 wire cutter/stripper, but any that can handle 22-26 gauge wire will work.

Shipping is free via USPS with tracking to the continental United States. Additional shipping charges will apply for foreign or overseas shipping. Please contact me with any questions. I'm here to help! Thank you!