Status: S2 v Empathy

[noelk27]

Specifically, 90s examples, focusing on control layout switching options and tone-shaping characteristics. Had both in my possession many years ago, and can't recall why it is, since then, I've always felt the Empathy had a "better" circuit.

[Chris2112]

I think the only difference was that the Empathy came with a mid control, a circuit which later popped up in the Stealth basses? Although the Empathy was supposed to be a deluxe version, as evidenced in the wood choices etc etc.

[sprocket123]

Either ones , I would take them anytimes

[Fat Rich]

I think the later Empathy got the 300 series board that's currently used in the S2 Classic, although that may be outside your 90s timescale. The 300 series preamp has bass and treble plus a semi parametric mid sweep frequency controlled by a pot and a small 3 position switch to adjust the mid boost +6db/flat/-6db. Very handy for getting a couple of different tones at the flick of a switch.