Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $463
High-end/Boutique
$70
$201+
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High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Darkglass Electronics Microtubes X Ultra Preamplifier". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Step into the world of unlimited tonal possibilities with the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra. This versatile preamp pedal offers an extensive range of bass distortion spectrum, from articulate high gain to smooth overdrive, and everything in between. Its unique feature allows you to choose the exact frequencies you want to compress and saturate for both low and treble, giving you total control over your sound.
With the addition of four major enhancements, the pedal packs an even greater punch while maintaining an impressively compact footprint. A notable feature is the 6-band graphic EQ, offering unprecedented character sculpting over the mid register. The pedal also boasts an award-winning impulse response cabinet simulation module, turning it into a complete rig-in-a-box for both studio work and live performances.
Whether you're looking to practice quietly or jam along with your favorite tracks, the auxiliary input allows you to connect your PC or mobile device. The clean channel allows a seamless switch from crystal clear tones to massive distortions with a simple stomp.
Key Features:
- Bass preamp/overdrive pedal
- Direct and parallel output for flexible routing
- Two variable filters for tone shaping
- Independent compression and overdrive for high and low frequencies
- 6-band graphic EQ for ultimate character sculpting
- Impulse response cabinet simulation for authentic tones
- Auxiliary input for PC or mobile devices
- Clean channel for seamless switch from clean to distortion
Product specs
| Pedal Type | Bass Preamp, Overdrive |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (instrument), 1 x 1/8" (aux in) |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" (out), 1 x XLR (balanced out), 1 x 1/8" (headphones) |
| USB | 1 x Micro-B |
| Power Source | 9V DC power supply (sold separately) |
| Power Usage | 200mA |
| Height | 2.24" |
| Width | 4.92" |
| Depth | 3.77" |
| Weight | 0.94 lbs. |
FAQs
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What are the main features of the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra Preamplifier?
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The Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra features a bass preamp with overdrive, a 6-band graphic EQ, variable filters, and an XLR DI output, making it versatile for both live and studio use.
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Can the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra be powered with a standard 9V power supply?
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Yes, the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra requires a 9V DC power supply with a current draw of 200mA. Ensure the power supply is regulated and has a center-negative plug.
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Does the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra have a headphone output?
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Yes, the Microtubes X Ultra includes a 1/8" headphone output, allowing for silent practice sessions.
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Is the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra suitable for live performances?
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Absolutely, the Microtubes X Ultra is designed for live use with its XLR DI output, providing a direct connection to PA systems or audio interfaces.
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Can I use the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra with other effects pedals?
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Yes, the Microtubes X Ultra can be integrated with other effects pedals, enhancing your tonal possibilities and allowing for a versatile signal chain.
Videos
Darkglass Electronics
Microtubes X Ultra demo by Jacob Umansky
Microtubes X Ultra demo by Jacob Umansky
Darkglass Electronics
Microtubes X Series: Microtubes X Ultra Guide by Chris Kollias
Darkglass Electronics
Microtubes X Ultra
Darkglass Electronics
Darkglass Electronics X Ultra Demo by Amos Heller
AmosHeller
Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra - Sound Demo (no talking)
Bass Bonedo
X Series Explained: Microtubes X Ultra by Uriah Duffy
Darkglass Electronics
Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra | Vlog Season 2 Episode 4
Janek Gwizdala
Extreme Metal Bass Sound - Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra
Lars Lehmann - Bassplayer
Is this the best pedal you can get for bass? DARKGLASS Microtubes X Ultra
The Tone Lounge
MusicMaker Presents - DARKGLASS MICROTUBES X ULTRA - Insanely Detailed Bass Overdrive & PreAmp Pedal
Musicmaker
Reviews
PROS
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Extremely versatile, suitable for a range of styles beyond metal
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Offers a wide array of tones from low to high gain
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Built-in EQ, distortion, and compressor for total sound control
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Features like headphone out and aux in enhance practice flexibility
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Cabinet simulations add character and realism to tones
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Multi-functional as a DI, amp/cab replacement, and practice tool
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Compressor mode adds versatility and quality to both clean and distorted tones
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Allows for deep tone sculpting with low/high-pass filters and multiband EQ
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Direct out provides silent, high-quality recording options
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Encourages creativity with dual processing and extensive tone shaping
CONS
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High pass and low pass filter knobs difficult to read, lacking visual indicators
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May require time to fully explore and understand its comprehensive features
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High treble settings can introduce unwanted hiss
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Darkglass Electronics Microtubes X Ultra Preamplifier.
Features and functionality
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Connecting to a computer is required for activating the compression feature, indicated by a change in light color from red to blue.
Source -
The pedal includes a low-end compression mode, engaging only with distortion, and a full band compression mode for both clean and distorted channels.
Source -
The pedal offers a wide range of gain from slightly gritty to heavily distorted, but lacks cabinet emulation, which may limit its ability to fully replace an amp.
Source -
The Darkglass X Ultra provides a limited but high-quality sound palette, preventing users from getting lost in excessive tone customization.
Source
Use cases and applications
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Works exceptionally as a DI for metal, offering a clean preamp to aggressive distortion; shines with Warwick Corvette basses.
Source -
Running the distortion at 10 o'clock provides a balanced sound for classic rock, adding edge with harder playing or a pick.
Source -
Darkglass is noted for versatility beyond metal genres, with users successfully employing it in rock and other styles.
Source -
The Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra excels in heavy metal with clean bass and distorted highs, ideal for users focusing on this sound 95% of the time.
Source
Software and compatibility
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The pedal's cab sim can be enhanced with Nolly Getgood's cab sim for optimum mixing and bass tone.
Source
User experience
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The pedal can replace multiple pedals on a board, including drives, cab sims, and DI, streamlining setups.
Source -
Owners mention the Microtubes X Ultra can sound "cold," with difficulty achieving a warm, personal tone, suggesting it may not suit everyone’s taste.
Source -
Owners appreciate the Darkglass X Ultra for its ability to deliver a consistently high-quality tone without the overwhelming flexibility of multi-effect units.
Source
Comparisons
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Users note the pedal's distortion capability allows it to replicate other drives, even with a flat EQ setting.
Source -
Some users prefer the Ampeg SGT-DI for a warmer sound and simpler adjustment over the Microtubes X Ultra, highlighting the importance of trying different preamps.
Source -
The HX Stomp includes a B7K model, offering amp/cab sims and a wider range of effects, contrasting Darkglass's more focused, high-quality tone.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings
248
A Swiss Army Knife bass preamp
If I had to turn up to a gig with just my bass, tuner and 1 pedal: this is the pedal I’d take.
It’s like a rig in a box, with built in compressor, cabsim, 6 band eq, and a monstrous crossover distortion. Sublime.
Artist usage
Add artist
From a photo of his pedalboard on his IG page.
In an Instagram post by himself, Jared Smith is shown using the Darkglass Electronics Microtubes X Ultra, as he expresses excitement about incorporating it into his home rig and thanks Darkglass Electronics.
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In this 2023 social media post, Firth describes using the Darkglass Microtubes X Ultra live.
A photo of Niels’s pedalboard at God Is An Astronaut’s rehearsal studio.
.jpg?v=1782547666)
In this video tom states his use of his pedals, one of which being the Microtubes X Ultra.
As featured in this video, is my main bass and absolute workhorse of an instrument…my Spector Euro 5LX. I’ve had this bass for 15 years and it has risen and surpassed whatever I’ve needed it to do. I’ve always aimed for versatility and quality when researching and purchasing gear…and Spector hits the nail on the head in every category.” And in case you were curious about his signal path for his live rig, here’s what he’s rockin’: Spector Euro 5LX Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 Mesa Boogie Diesel 2×15 Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner Empress Effects Buffer Ernie Ball VP Jr. Aguilar TLC Compressor Darkglass Electronics Microtubes X Ultra EHX Bass Big Muff Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI Mooer Noise Killer Powered By: True Tone CS12 Ernie Ball Slinkys 130-45
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 Darkglass Electronics Microtubes X Ultra Preamplifier, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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