Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $378

Standard/Professional

$150

$601+

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High-end

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Description

Elevate your bass tone with the API TranZformer LX, a sleek fusion of legendary API circuitry and modern versatility. Designed for discerning bassists, this pedal and DI box brings the studio magic directly to your pedalboard. Experience unparalleled clarity and punch, thanks to its high-headroom input and unique compressor, derived from the iconic 525 module. With the 553 program equalizer-inspired tone control, shaping your signature sound has never been more intuitive or satisfying. Whether recording or live, the TranZformer LX is your ticket to that sought-after API sound.

Key Features:

  • High-headroom input stage for crystal-clear signal processing
  • Variable compressor based on the 525 module, offering six compression settings
  • Tone control inspired by the 553 program equalizer, with three bands tuned for optimal bass performance
  • Transformer-coupled output, ensuring the classic API warmth and presence
  • Versatile functionality as both a pedal and a DI box, perfect for studio and stage

Product specs

Brand API
Model TranZformer LX Bass Pedal
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories Compressor Pedals, EQ Pedals

FAQs

What are the main features of the API TranZformer LX Bass Pedal?

The API TranZformer LX Bass Pedal combines a high-quality compressor and EQ in one unit, designed specifically for bass guitars. It offers API's renowned tone-shaping capabilities, allowing bassists to refine their sound with precision.

Does the API TranZformer LX work well with active bass pickups?

Yes, the API TranZformer LX is designed to work efficiently with both active and passive bass pickups, providing a versatile solution for various bass guitar setups.

Can the API TranZformer LX be powered by a standard pedalboard power supply?

The API TranZformer LX requires a standard 9V DC power supply, making it compatible with most pedalboard power systems.

How does the compressor in the API TranZformer LX enhance bass performance?

The compressor in the API TranZformer LX helps to smooth out the dynamics of your bass playing, ensuring consistent output levels and adding punch to your sound.

Is the API TranZformer LX suitable for live performances?

Yes, the API TranZformer LX is built for both studio and live performance use, offering robust construction and reliable performance on stage.

API Audio

API Audio

Introducing API's TranZformer LX Bass Pedal

Video thumbnail for Introducing API's TranZformer LX Bass Pedal by API Audio

Introducing API's TranZformer LX Bass Pedal

API Audio

API Audio

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - API TranZformer LX by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - API TranZformer LX

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for API Tranzformer LX Bass Preamp | Guitar Pedal | Vintage King by Vintage King

API Tranzformer LX Bass Preamp | Guitar Pedal | Vintage King

Vintage King

Vintage King

Video thumbnail for Fender JMJ Signature Mustang Bass & API Tranzformer LX sound Test by Bass Tabs By Jason

Fender JMJ Signature Mustang Bass & API Tranzformer LX sound Test

Bass Tabs By Jason

Bass Tabs By Jason

Video thumbnail for RMI Basswitch and API Tranzformer LX Bass Preamp pedal comparison by DogoHouse Instrument Gear

RMI Basswitch and API Tranzformer LX Bass Preamp pedal comparison

DogoHouse Instrument Gear

DogoHouse Instrument Gear

Video thumbnail for API Tranz­former LX quick check with Fender Precision Bass by Bauer Studio

API Tranz­former LX quick check with Fender Precision Bass

Bauer Studio

Bauer Studio

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about API TranZformer LX.

Features and functionality

  • The TranZformer LX is described as providing a "monstrous tone," ideal for achieving a serious bass sound with its transformer/compressor/EQ combination.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's noted that the pedal is quite large, approximately the size of a size 10 shoe, which may affect pedalboard space considerations.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users are put off by the pedal's aesthetics, citing its shape, color, knob placement, and name as detractors, despite its sound quality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The pedal is highly recommended by audio engineers for bass players seeking to enhance their sound significantly.

    Source

Critic Reviews

API TranZformer LX Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The API TranZformer LX impresses with its studio-quality compression and EQ, offering bassists a powerful tool for tone-shaping on stage and in the studio. Its simplicity in controls, with six compression presets and a user-friendly EQ section, allows for quick and effective sound adjustments. However, its hefty size might be a challenge for those with limited pedalboard space. At around $500, it's a pricier option, yet delivers exceptional value by combining elements of API's renowned 500 series modules. For bassists seeking professional-grade sound without breaking the bank, this pedal is a solid investment.

positive

API: TranZformer GT & LX Pedals | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The API TranZformer LX impresses with its blend of functionality and the iconic API sound, serving as more than just a DI box. With its versatile EQ and compressor circuits, it provides clear, dynamic recordings for bass and guitar. The pedal's sturdy design and high-quality build justify its hefty price tag, making it a worthy studio investment, though its weight and size are less ideal for gigging. Overall, it's a commendable choice for those seeking API's renowned quality in a compact format.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mikey Way uses API TranZformer LX

Mikey Way

Bassist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Photo

In the Instagram post by Mikey Way, the API TranZformer LX can be seen positioned behind his custom sparkly Jazz bass. The distinctive red knobs identify it as the LX model.

See how Pedro Aznar uses API TranZformer LX

Pedro Aznar

Singer, Guitarist

Pat Metheny Group

...
Verified via YouTube

Aznar relata los seteos de su sonido en vivo.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use API TranZformer LX, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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