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Chase Bliss Audio x Benson Automatone Preamp MKII

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Chase Bliss Audio x Benson Automatone Preamp MKII

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$845.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (1)

3 Critic Reviews

Find out who is using Chase Bliss Audio Automatone MKII

5 community setups

22 wishlisted

40 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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5.0 (25)

$845.00 7 available Used

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Average Price: $845

High-end/Boutique

$249

$500+

Price Tier

In the Guitar Preamp Pedals category, Chase Bliss Audio x Benson Automatone Preamp MKII is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Description

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The first Automatone.

What happens when you combine the DNA of Benson Amps’ Chimera in a box Preamp with a little fuzz, some of Condor’s resonant parametric mids, and full blown preset control from your friends at Chase Bliss Audio? The Preamp MKII. Built in collaboration with Chris Benson from Benson Amps, and known around here as the first Automatone.

This baby has variable diode clipping control (transistor only, silicon, and asymmetrical germanium), fuzz you can swap from open to gated, three mids resonance settings with variable routing you can place before or after the preamp, and three banks of ten presets each that give you thirty presets to set at your leisure.

But what’s an Automatone, you ask? It’s a pedal built with motorized faders that adjust automatically – and a little magically – as you cycle through presets. Check out the video below to learn more and see it in action.

Dimensions: 5.75" x 6.5" x 2.5"

Power req: 9V Center Negative ~500 mA

Product specs

Brand	Chase Bliss Audio
Model	Automatone MKII Preamp
Finish	SIlver
Year	2020 - 2024
Made In	United States
Categories	Overdrive and Boost Pedals, Preamps

FAQs

What makes the Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII unique compared to other preamp pedals?: The Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII is unique due to its motorized faders that adjust to preset settings, providing a tactile and visual interface. It combines analog circuitry with digital control, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities and seamless preset management.
Can the Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII be used with both guitar and bass?: Yes, the Automatone Preamp MKII is versatile enough to be used with both guitar and bass, offering a broad spectrum of tonal shaping capabilities suitable for various instruments.
Does the Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII require a specific power supply?: The Automatone Preamp MKII requires a 9V DC power supply with a minimum of 500mA. It does not run on batteries, so an appropriate power adapter is necessary for operation.
How does the Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII handle MIDI integration?: The Automatone Preamp MKII supports full MIDI integration, allowing users to control parameters and switch presets via MIDI commands, making it highly adaptable for complex setups and live performances.
Is the Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Automatone Preamp MKII is designed for live performance with its robust build, motorized faders for quick adjustments, and MIDI capabilities, making it ideal for dynamic stage environments.

Videos

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Paul Davids

Chase Bliss Automatone Preamp MKII: the FUTURE of PEDALS?

Paul Davids

Chase Bliss Automatone Vs Best Of The Best [Klon, KOT, Fuzz Face & More] – That Pedal Show

That Pedal Show

This Pedal Is NOT Cheap But Sounds Amazing | Chase Bliss Automatone Preamp

Rhett Shull

Preamp Mkii Overview (Deep Dive)

chase bliss

THE CRAZIEST GAIN PEDAL EVER?!? Chase Bliss Preamp MK II

Pete Thorn

AUTOMATONE: Preamp mkII || Mini-Doc

chase bliss

PREAMP MKII: AUTOMATONE || TRAILER

chase bliss

Chase Bliss Audio PREAMP MKII

Mike Hermans

The Preamp MKII Automatone by ChaseBliss & Benson Amps | This Thing Is Just Awesome!!

Peter Honoré

Useful or just cool? Chase Bliss Preamp MkII Review

EytschPi42

The shape of distortion (Preamp mk2)

Knobs

Preamp mkII Internal Configuration Options

chase bliss

Chase Bliss Preamp Mkii Demo - How Good is This Thing?

Sam Goffen Guitar - Gear Reviews and Lessons

AUTOMATONE™ Preamp mkII HYPE

chase bliss

Reviews

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PROS

Eliminates need for multiple drive/dirt pedals
Quick, easy preset cycling optimal for live performance
Saves precise settings for studio efficiency
Intuitive design with effective sliders for tweaking
Capable of reproducing virtually any drive effect
Assignable expression pedal functionality adds versatility
Digital control over analog components for superior tone
Comprehensive MIDI capabilities for in-depth programming

CONS

High price point may be prohibitive for some users
Overkill for casual home use
Requires time and programming knowledge for full functionality
Could benefit from a simpler, less expensive version without MIDI

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Chase Bliss Audio x Benson Automatone Preamp MKII.

Use cases and applications

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Owners often treat the Preamp MKII as a studio pedal rather than for live performances due to its size and price.
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Expression pedals can be used to control gain and volume, providing seamless transitions from rhythm to lead tones.
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Features and functionality

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The bass fader is particularly impactful when running fuzz, often requiring lower settings to achieve desired tones.
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The pedal offers a range of fuzz options, with users noting the effectiveness of both germanium and silicone clipping.
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The EQ section is notably powerful, transforming basic guitar tones to intense fuzz while allowing customization for various guitars.
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The preset system can be finicky without MIDI; integrating MIDI simplifies access to the pedal's diverse sounds and features.
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The pedal can operate with broken sliders by disabling their movement, maintaining functionality despite potential mechanical failures.
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It's noted for its excellent tone sculpting capabilities and a top-notch fuzz that includes a gated option, which some users find lacks in other fuzz pedals.
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The Preamp MKII includes a fuzz and presets, allowing for a variety of tones at the push of a button, although some users still prefer simpler setups.
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User experience

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Owners suggest starting with thematic presets, such as using no clipping diodes for clean tones, and adjusting EQ to match specific guitars.
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Some users find the tonal adjustments subtle, with diode switching offering minor changes, such as slightly less muddiness when using germanium.
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Some users find the Preamp MKII does not provide the distinct tonal improvements expected for the price, suggesting it may not be suitable for those seeking a standout overdrive sound.
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Software and compatibility

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The Preamp MKII integrates smoothly in MIDI-based setups, allowing for seamless preset changes and parameter adjustments.
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Comparisons

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The Preamp MKII is often compared to the JHS Colour Box v2, 1981 DRV, and Hudson Broadcast, with some users preferring the tonal range and gain options of the Broadcast.
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Build quality

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The motorized sliders are designed to withstand significant wear, tested for durability over extended periods to ensure robustness.
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Other

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The Chase Bliss Preamp MKII is reportedly discontinued due to a lack of components, but Chase Bliss has extended the warranty to a lifetime, which adds value for some users.
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Value and pricing

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Several users feel the $800 price tag is steep, especially considering other gear like amps and synths that cost less and offer more versatility or features.
Source

Critic Reviews

Chase Bliss Automatone Preamp MKII vs Benson Preamp

getoffsetpodcast.com

The Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII is a highly functional pedal that boasts extensive features like presets and advanced mids control, appealing to those seeking versatility. However, if you're not utilizing its additional functions, it essentially mirrors the original Benson Preamp, which is significantly cheaper. While the sound quality is impressive and closely resembles the Benson, the higher price tag may deter budget-conscious musicians. Ultimately, it's a great product for those who want all the bells and whistles, but the necessity of such features is questionable for many players.

neutral

Full Review

Chase Bliss Preamp MKII Demo and Review - Get Offset

getoffsetpodcast.com

The Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII delivers a captivating sound with its innovative flying faders, allowing players to effortlessly transition between a boost and a gritty fuzz. Its extensive tonal sculpting capabilities, especially the Mids and Q controls, are a standout feature, offering sonic depth rarely found in other pedals. However, the price tag is steep, making it less accessible for many musicians. Despite its size and power requirements, which might complicate pedalboard setups, this preamp could very well be the last dirt pedal a player ever needs, provided they can justify the cost. A highly technical but rewarding tool for the dedicated guitarist.

positive

Full Review

Chase Bliss Audio x Benson Automatone Preamp MKII review on pedal-of-the-day.com

pedal-of-the-day.com

The Chase Bliss Audio Automatone Preamp MKII is a revolutionary multi-functional pedal that fuses innovative design with outstanding tonal versatility. Its automated sliders, extensive MIDI capabilities, and rich sound options allow users to effortlessly dial in everything from clean boosts to fuzz. While the steep price might deter some, the pedal effectively replaces multiple devices in one compact unit. However, the learning curve can be daunting for newcomers, requiring a commitment to fully explore its vast capabilities. Still, for those willing to invest time and money, it promises to deliver a wealth of sonic possibilities and could very well be the last pedal of its kind you'll ever need.

positive

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