EMG PA2 Preamp Booster

^# 53

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$75.00 to $89.00

1 Critic Review

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Page last updated Jul 01, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated July 1, 2026.

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4.8 (18)

$89.00

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5.0 (2)

$75.00 4 available New

$32.49 3 available Used

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Description

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The PA2 is a boost preamp you can mount to your guitar and turn on/off via on a minitoggle switch. It's the perfect solution if you want to increase your instrument's overall volume for solos or push an amp on the edge of breakup into overdrive. It has a trim pot so you can preset the amount of boost you want up to 20 dB.

Product specs

Brand	EMG
Model	PA2 Preamp Booster Switch
Finish	Standard
Year	2010s

FAQs

What is the primary function of the EMG PA2 Preamp Booster?: The EMG PA2 Preamp Booster is designed to enhance the output of any guitar pickup, whether active or passive, by providing up to 20dB of gain, effectively increasing the signal strength and shaping the tone.
How is the EMG PA2 Preamp Booster installed on a guitar?: The EMG PA2 is typically installed as a toggle switch on the guitar, placed just before the output jack, allowing easy access to boost the signal as needed during performances or recordings.
Is the EMG PA2 Preamp Booster suitable for both electric guitar and bass?: Yes, the EMG PA2 Preamp Booster is compatible with both electric guitars and basses, providing a versatile solution for musicians looking to enhance their instrument's output and tonal characteristics.
Can the EMG PA2 Preamp Booster be used with passive pickups?: Absolutely, the EMG PA2 is designed to work with both passive and active pickups, offering a significant boost in output level and tone shaping capabilities for a wide range of instruments.
Does the EMG PA2 Preamp Booster require a power source?: Yes, the EMG PA2 requires a power source to operate, typically using a 9V battery, which is standard for many onboard guitar electronics and effects.

Reviews

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PROS

Delivers a warm, fuzzy tone reminiscent of classic rock sounds
Offers adjustable boost for personalized sound preferences
Enhances single pickup guitars with a chunky, Les Paul-like sound
Compatible with EMG's solderless system for easier installation
Effective for adding a second tonal option to guitars

CONS

Doesn't provide as much gain as expected on dirty channels
May not fit all guitar models without adjustments
Fragile lever prone to breaking under rough handling
Requires technical setup knowledge for optimal use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG PA2 Preamp Booster.

Features and functionality

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The EMG PA2 Preamp Booster is often considered to balance output levels between active and passive pickups in mixed configurations.
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Mods and upgrades

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Users suggest using impedance matching preamps for passive pickups when integrating them with active ones, which can improve functionality in complex wiring setups.
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Setup and maintenance

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It's noted that a 250k pot for passive pickups may require the EMG PA2 to be wired post-control for effective impedance and level compensation.
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Use cases and applications

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The EMG PA2 is intended for setups aiming to even out volume disparities in HSS configurations with active humbuckers and passive single coils.
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Critic Reviews

Emg Pa-2 And Emg Afterburner Review

guitarmasterclass.net

The EMG PA2 Preamp Booster delivers impressive performance, providing a substantial gain boost that enhances clarity and overdrive, particularly suited for metal and rock genres. Users praise its transformative ability to fatten up sound without compromising tone integrity. However, installation can be tricky, requiring drilling and careful wiring that might deter less experienced players. Additionally, the reliance on batteries for operation is a minor inconvenience. Overall, the PA2 is a solid choice for those seeking an effective and reliable enhancement to their guitar's capabilities.

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Artist usage

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Kerry King

Guitarist, Composer

Slayer

Verified via Emgpickups

"He gets his aggressive crunch, overdrive and sick lead tones from the EMG 81, EMG 85 and the PA2 Gain Boost Switch that makes up his signature EMG KFK Set."

Ryan Cook

Singer, Guitarist

Skid Row

Verified via Photo

"Let’s talk about it !! The RSCV4 Signature Bass by Vintage Guitars / Cara Guitars. - Alder Body. - Maple Neck. - Rosewood Fingerboard. - Jumbo Frets. - One Master Volume Control. - Mirror Pickguard. - EMG P-X Active Pickups w/ EMG PA2 Preamp Booster Switch. - Schaller Strap Locks. - Elixir Nickel Plated Strings 45/105. @vintageguitars_official @vintage_guitars_us @caraguitars @emgpickups @elixir_strings #schallerstraplocks #bass #bassguitar"