The Fishman Platinum Stage EQ/DI has a smaller sibling in the Platinum Pro EQ/DI Analog Preamp: an all-analog universal instrument preamp from Fishman that combines a preamp, a 5-band EQ, one-knob compression, a boost and a tuner in one pedal, with a balanced XLR DI output for going straight to the PA. Fishman positions it as "Analog PreAmplification + D.I." for acoustic players, and the maker's listing describes it as delivering "incredibly accurate sonic detail for any acoustic" instrument12.
What it does for an acoustic player
At its core is what Fishman calls a "17-volt discrete Class A preamp," which the maker says "allows the full dynamics of your technique shine through, delivering studio-quality" signal. RockBoard's PedalPedia entry describes the same topology as "a discrete, high-headroom Class-A preamp" using "precision, high-speed circuitry for the highest fidelity and low distortion"124. In practical terms, a discrete Class A front end is the kind of circuit acoustic players look for when they want a pickup's signal lifted to line level without the compression and harshness a cheaper stage can add.
The balanced XLR DI output is the other half of the pitch: Fishman says it "eliminates an outboard D.I., providing a high quality, noise free signal," so the pedal can sit between your guitar and the mixing desk with nothing else needed12.
The EQ, compression and feedback controls
The Platinum Pro EQ carries a lot of control for an acoustic preamp2:
- 5-band EQ with a sweepable Mid control and an adjustable low-cut filter for taming boom1
- Two selectable EQ modes, one for full-range instruments and one for bass instruments1
- Transparent one-knob compression, no ratio or attack controls to set1
- Sweepable notch filter plus a phase invert switch for feedback control1
- Integrated FX loop for external acoustic pedals such as reverb, chorus and delay1
- Preset tuner modes for guitar, bass, ukulele and mandolin1
The notch filter and phase switch are the anti-feedback tools: you sweep the notch to the frequency that is ringing and flip the phase if that settles the stage down. The pre/post EQ switch on the DI output determines whether your EQ settings apply to the signal sent out of the XLR, so you choose whether the soundman receives your EQ curve or the raw preamp signal1.
The guitar/bass EQ mode is worth knowing about if you play both: RockBoard notes that "classic Fishman tone centers with sweepable mid is combined with a switchable guitar/bass EQ mode, making it more musica[l]" across instruments4.
Power, size and availability
The pedal runs on one 9V battery, which is not included, or on the optional Fishman 910-R AC Adapter1. Fishman lists battery life at 30 hours1. It measures 6.2 by 5.6 by 2.2 inches and weighs 1.4 lbs (0.64 kg), so it is a larger footprint than a standard stompbox but still pedalboard-friendly1. Fishman's list price is $359.95 USD31.
Mandolin, banjo, fiddle and bass
Fishman's own FAQ answers directly whether the Platinum Pro EQ works with instruments other than guitar, naming mandolin, banjo and fiddle: "Yes"1. The tuner's preset modes cover guitar, bass, ukulele and mandolin1, and the switchable full-range/bass EQ modes plus the guitar/bass EQ option make it usable as a bass preamp as well14.
Videos
Fishman Music
Peghead Nation
UptonBass
Questions
Does the Fishman Platinum Pro EQ run on a battery?
Yes. Fishman says the Platinum Pro EQ can operate with one 9V battery, though the battery is sold separately. It can also be powered from the optional Fishman 910R power adapter, which is useful if you plan to run the pedal regularly on a board or pedalboard setup.
How long does the battery last?
Fishman lists the battery life at 30 hours. That is with a single 9V battery, which is not included with the pedal. If you use the unit often, the optional 910R adapter avoids swapping batteries mid-gig.
What does the pre/post EQ switch do?
The pre/post EQ switch on the Platinum Pro EQ determines whether your EQ settings apply to the signal being sent out of the balanced XLR DI output. In pre position the PA receives the signal before your EQ tweaks; in post position the soundman gets the same EQ curve you are hearing.
Can I use the Platinum Pro with bass?
Yes. The pedal has two selectable EQ modes, one for full-range instruments and one for bass instruments, and RockBoard's listing describes a switchable guitar/bass EQ mode with a sweepable mid. Fishman also includes preset tuning modes for bass alongside guitar, ukulele and mandolin.
Does it have an effects loop?
Yes. The Platinum Pro EQ has an integrated FX loop for connecting external acoustic effects pedals such as reverb, chorus and delay. Placing those effects in the loop keeps them out of the signal going to your instrument amp while still feeding them to the DI output.
Can it be used with a mandolin or banjo?
Yes. Fishman's own FAQ asks whether the Platinum Pro EQ can be used with instruments other than guitar, such as mandolin, banjo or fiddle, and answers yes. The tuner's preset modes cover mandolin as well as guitar, bass and ukulele.
Sources (4)
- Fishman Platinum Pro EQ/DI Analog Preamp Pedal, Fishman
- Platinum Pro EQ by Fishman, RockBoard (rockboard.de), 2026
- Platinum Stage EQ/DI Preamp Pedal, fishman.com
- Platinium Pro Eq by Fishman, RockBoard (PedalPedia), 2026
Justin Derrico
