Tech 21 Bass Driver DI

The Gold Standard for Bass Tone

Whether you are looking for vintage "SVTo-style" grit, modern slap clarity, or a thick, overdriven tube growl, the Bass Driver DI delivers it all through 100% analog circuitry. It isn’t just a direct box; it is a dedicated preamp and tone-shaper that can drive power amps, feed a PA system, or go directly into your recording interface with the character of a fully mic’d-up bass rig.

New in Version 2: Enhanced Control

While the original was legendary, the Version 2 offers significant updates to accommodate a wider variety of instruments and playing styles:

• Mid-Range Control: A dedicated Mid knob allows you to cut or boost the essential "meat" of your tone.
• Mid-Shift Switch: Choose between two distinct frequencies (500Hz or 1000Hz) to find the perfect pocket in the mix.
• Bass-Shift Switch: Specifically designed for 5- and 6-string players, this switch adjusts the bass frequency response from 40Hz (perfect for extended range) to 80Hz.

Signature SansAmp Versatility

The heart of the pedal lies in its ability to blend the best of both worlds:

• Blend Control: This allows you to mix the amount of SansAmp tube emulation with your direct, clean signal. It’s the secret to maintaining low-end definition and "punch" even when using heavy distortion.
• Drive & Presence: Adjust the amount of gain and overtones, from subtle warmth to aggressive saturation, while the Presence control adds upper-harmonic content for attack and definition.
• Active EQ: The Bass and Treble controls provide ±12dB of boost or cut, allowing for surgical adjustments to your overall sound.

Professional Routing Options

Designed for the stage and the studio, the Bass Driver DI offers flexible output configurations:

• XLR Output: Send a balanced, low-impedance signal directly to a mixer or interface.
• 1/4" Output: Run into a standard bass amp or power amp.
• Parallel Output: Send an unaffected "dry" signal to a separate channel for additional processing or monitoring.

Technical Specifications:

• Input: 1/4-inch 1 megOhm instrument level
• Controls: Drive, Level, Blend, Treble, Presence, Mid, Bass
• Switches: Mid Shift (500/1000Hz), Bass Shift (40/80Hz), Phantom/Ground Lift, XLR Pad, 1/4" Boost
• Power: 9V DC power supply (optional), 9V alkaline battery, or Phantom Power via XLR
• Dimensions: 4.75” x 3.75” x 2.0”
• Weight: 14 oz.

The Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI remains the essential "insurance policy" for every bassist. Whether used as a primary preamp, a reliable backup, or a versatile DI for recording, it provides the professional tube-like response that has made it a legend in the industry.