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Ampeg SCR-DI Bass Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive

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Ampeg SCR-DI Bass Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive

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$199.99 to $299.99 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (37)

2 Critic Reviews

7 Reviews

Find out who is using Ampeg Scrambler SCR-DI

6 community setups

Featured in

Best Bass Preamps for Live & Studio

13 wishlisted

77 saved

Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

4.5 (68)

$199.99

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4.5 (20)

$279.99

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4.2 (52)

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5.0 (53)

$257.09 8 available New

$141.00 8 available Used

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4.7 (174)

$263.00 $261.00 $2.00

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£221.50

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Average Price: $240

High-end/Boutique

$70

$201+

Price Tier

In the Bass Effects Pedals category, Ampeg SCR-DI Bass Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Ampeg SCR-DI Bass Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Dive into the world of iconic Ampeg bass tones with the Ampeg Scrambler SCR-DI. This pedal is more than just an overdrive - it's an all-in-one solution for bassists craving that unmistakable Ampeg grit. The Scrambler Overdrive gives you the vintage, dirty drive while the EQ capability allows you to shape your tone precisely to your liking. Whether you're playing on stage or in the studio, the SCR-DI's direct box function ensures your tone shines through clearly when sent to a PA or mixer. Compact yet powerful, this little box is all your bass needs to sound fantastic, no matter where you're playing.

Key Features:

Scrambler Overdrive provides classic Ampeg grit
EQ capability for precise tone shaping
Direct box function for clear sound transmission to PA or mixer
Compact and portable design suitable for stage and studio use

Owner's manual

Ampeg SCR-DI Bass Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive User Manual

Product specs

Type	Preamp
Form Factor	Pedal
Inputs	2 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8"
Outputs	1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (Line), 1 x 1/4" (Thru), 1 x 1/8" (Headphones)
Batteries	1 x 9V
Height	2.2"
Width	7.6"
Depth	4.3"
Weight	2.6 lbs.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Scrambler Overdrive feature on the Ampeg SCR-DI?: The Scrambler Overdrive on the Ampeg SCR-DI adds a gritty, overdriven tone to your bass signal, emulating the sound of a pushed tube amp. This feature allows you to dial in varying levels of distortion, enhancing your sound for rock, metal, or any genre requiring a more aggressive bass tone.
Can the Ampeg SCR-DI be used as a standalone DI box for recording?: Yes, the Ampeg SCR-DI functions as a standalone DI box, offering both XLR and 1/4" outputs. This makes it a versatile tool for sending your bass signal directly to a mixing console or audio interface, ideal for recording or live sound applications.
Does the Ampeg SCR-DI require a power supply to operate?: The Ampeg SCR-DI can be powered by a 9V battery or an external power supply. This flexibility ensures it can be used in various settings, whether on stage or in the studio, without relying solely on a power outlet.
How does the EQ section of the Ampeg SCR-DI enhance bass tone shaping?: The EQ section of the Ampeg SCR-DI offers 3-band EQ controls, allowing you to adjust bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. This enables precise tone shaping to suit different musical styles and performance environments, providing a tailored sound for your bass guitar.
Is the Ampeg SCR-DI suitable for use with headphones?: Yes, the Ampeg SCR-DI includes a 1/8" headphone output, making it suitable for silent practice. This feature allows you to monitor your sound directly through headphones, offering convenience for late-night practice sessions without disturbing others.

Videos

Add video

Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Ampeg SCR‑DI Direct Box with Scrambler Overdrive

Premier Guitar

Ampeg SCR-DI Bass DI Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive Pedal Demo

Guitar Center

Ampeg Scrambler SCR-DI - Sweetwater at Winter NAMM 2015

Sweetwater

Ampeg SCR-DI vs. MXR Bass DI+

The Bass Channel

Ampeg SCR-DI - Bass Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive Pedal Demo

Sweetwater

Ampeg - SCR-DI

Bass Stuff

Ampeg SCR DI A Practical Review

Sanitys Void

CHECKING OUT THE AMPEG SCR-DI

Erik Arkö

Ampeg SCR-DI - Demo with Dino Monoxelos

Kraft Music

Ampeg SCR-DI Bass DI Box Demo - Bass, Guitar, Synthesizer Test

Noise Trust

Reviews

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PROS

Great Ampeg tone and grit for authentic sound
Separate foot switch for the scrambler circuit adds flexibility
Useful for practice with headphones and aux input
Sturdy and well-built, ensuring durability
Provides punchy sound for both recording and live performance
Features like XLR output with ground lift enhance connectivity
Dual input gain options cater to different instruments
EQ section and overdrive praised for effectiveness
Fits inside standard instrument cases for easy transport
Acts as a reliable backup during live performances

CONS

Clean tone not as versatile or impressive as competitors
Some users experienced input sensitivity issues, leading to clipping
-15dB pad affects signal even when pedal is off, necessitating volume adjustment
Mid-range can become overwhelming with excessive distortion
Internal jumper switch for active/passive modes inconvenient for quick changes
Heavy weight of the pedal may be a drawback for some
Distortion tone may not meet everyone's expectations
Lacks mid-frequency parametric equalizer and mute knob

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ampeg SCR-DI Bass Preamp with Scrambler Overdrive.

Comparisons

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The SCR-DI is noted for decent "pushed tube" sound imitation; however, the SansAmp VT Bass DI is often highlighted for superior dynamic responsiveness and closer tube head saturation.
Source
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The Shift Line Olympic, though pricier and not exactly Ampeg-sounding, is recommended for its Alembic F-2B inspired tone, appealing to those seeking a tube preamp experience.
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Some owners prefer the Ampeg SCR-DI for its "fuller" and "rounder" tone compared to the SansAmp VT Bass DI, despite the latter's tonal flexibility.
Source
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The MXR M81 is recognized for its clean preamp capabilities, likened to onboard preamps in active basses, contrasting with the SansAmp's amp simulation and distortion features.
Source
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The Broughton Messenger Jr is favored for its clean sound, with users noting the Empress ParaEQ Deluxe offers more precise EQ adjustments, especially with its LPF/HPF features.
Source

User experience

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Owners suggest that the SCR-DI distortion feature may not be widely utilized, with some preferring alternative pedals for specific tonal needs.
Source
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One user notes that the Ampeg SCR-DI consistently sounds like an Ampeg even when used with multiple effect pedals at the end of the signal chain.
Source

Features and functionality

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The Ampeg SCR-DI features a headphone out, which is convenient for players practicing at home without an amp.
Source
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The SCR-DI has a separate overdrive and EQ, which some users find useful for tailoring their sound directly on the pedal.
Source
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The Laney Digbeth is appreciated for its switchable 'tube' channel, providing added grit along with a great EQ and DI out, catering to those seeking a powerful yet affordable preamp.
Source
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The Sonicake B Factory is noted for having a line level XLR output, which deviates from the expected mic-level DI output, suggesting a design oversight.
Source

Setup and maintenance

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Adjusting the input pad on the SCR-DI requires opening the unit to switch a jumper, which one owner finds inconvenient.
Source

Use cases and applications

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The SCR-DI is highlighted for its ability to maintain Ampeg-like tones when used as a DI directly into a PA system.
Source
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The Palmer Bass Pocket Amp offers a versatile setup with a DI out, aux in, and headphone out, making it suitable for practice and gigging without an amp.
Source

Critic Reviews

Bassic Review – Ampeg SCR-DI Bass Pedal | Bass Gear Magazine

bassgearmag.com

The Ampeg SCR-DI offers a faithful rendition of the classic Ampeg sound in a pedal format, making it a versatile tool for bass players. Its intuitive design and robust build are strengths, while the aux-in and headphone out features cater well to practice needs. However, the battery life is disappointing, and the internal pad for high-output basses is cumbersome to adjust. The Scrambler circuit's overdrive might not suit everyone, but its bypassability compensates for this. Overall, the SCR-DI is a solid preamp option for both amateurs and professionals, despite minor drawbacks.

positive

Full Review

Ampeg SCR-DI Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Ampeg Scrambler SCR-DI is a robust and versatile DI/preamp that delivers SVT-inspired tones with an impressive EQ range and a solid overdrive circuit. Its die-cast zinc enclosure promises durability, making it a reliable choice for both stage and studio use. While the overdrive lacks some character compared to a RAT or Big Muff, it still performs admirably, providing a range from light growl to mammoth grind. At $199, this pedal is a solid investment, offering a noise-free DI output and useful headphone amp functionality, making it a must-have for bassists seeking to enhance their sound.

positive

Full Review

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 37 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

taan_pasitj

124

about 1 year ago

Love it

Perfect tone (in my opinion) Very good Very convenient To play *cons - 9v ports not so strong sometimes it can break reccommend to chage the port if it break help it get more stronger

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Ultra low On Scoop some mids

Roles:

Bassist

Genres:

Rock Pop Metal

From Gear Setup

couzin2000

193

over 8 years ago

Perfect complement to any bass player's pedalboard

I own a Ampeg SVT III non-pro head. When playing live, I send the head's line out to the house mix. But when your amp goes out (especially with a tube amp this can happen), my backup is the Ampeg SCR-DI, which is now a permanent part of my pedalboard. I've had a chance to go and play with friends without bringing my amp -- they had a Yorkville stack in the rehearsal space. I brought only my Ampeg pedal... and plugged it inline from my bass to the amp.

Funny how a Yorkville amp can be made to sound like an Ampeg amp.

This pedal has a great emulation circuit that faithfully reproduces "that Ampeg sound". Absolutely awesome, and must be tried out to be believed. I bring this out everytime I want to avoid carrying my amp head. To record direct into a computer, this definitely has a lotta punch as well. I use it in my pedalboard as a backup for the house mix. I can plug it in and use the THRU to go straight to my amp, without modifying my sound further by adding the pedal's sound. This bypasses the pedal and continues in the signal chain unscathed. If my amp goes out, I can hit the pedal's switch and run my entire rig through that pedal, and at least keep the house mix going. GREAT backup to have!

dustin_svacina

over 5 years ago

Legendary!!! Awesome original Ampeg sound!!!

The distortion isn't what I expected. You can get whatever clean bass tone you want with this pedal.

kricho

about 6 years ago

Really nice toolbox from AMPEG

Nice AMPEG tone which can be added to any bass amp or used individually for exercising.

Roles:

Bassist

Genres:

Rock Alternative rock Punk rock

brandon_bolderoff

770

over 10 years ago

this pedal is smaller than i expected.

my only issue is the pedal is heavy. it does give an ampeg sound. my bands is recording an ep and our studio engineer wants my ampeg scr-di. when using headphone, you can really hear your effects, and tweak how ever you like.