Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $120
Standard/Professional
$60
$151+
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Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost, a premium-quality instrument preamp and buffer designed to elevate your sound. This unique device offers a diverse range of tone-shaping options, allowing you to customize your sound to fit your musical style.
The Z-TONE Buffer Boost comes with three distinct input circuits to cater to all types of guitars and playing styles. The PURE input circuit offers an ultra-accurate and transparent preamp that won't alter your natural sound. The JFET circuit, on the other hand, adds subtle harmonic enhancement for a warm, rich tone. Lastly, the ACTIVE input bypasses any unnecessary gain stages when using active pickups, ensuring a clean and direct signal path.
One of the standout features of the Z-TONE Buffer Boost is IK's patent-pending variable impedance control. This innovative control lets you shape your sound in unique ways. Whether you want a tight, precise tone or a thick, bold sound, the variable impedance control delivers.
The Z-TONE Buffer Boost also includes an adjustable gain boost circuit to increase volume and drive, perfect for hitting your amp or pedals harder. Add to this the transparent output buffer, and you can be sure your signal will always stay crystal clear, even over long cable runs or complex routing.
Key Features:
- High-quality instrument preamp
- Provides powerful tone-shaping options
- Three distinct input circuits: PURE, JFET, and ACTIVE
- Patent-pending variable impedance control
- Switchable boost for extra drive and volume
- Transparent output buffer maintains signal clarity
- Compatible with standard 9V battery or 9V pedal power supply
Product specs
| Pedal Type | Boost, Buffer |
| Analog/Digital | Analog |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4", 1 x XLR |
| True Bypass | Yes |
| Power Source | 9V DC power supply (sold separately) |
| Batteries | 1 x 9V |
| Height | 2.28" |
| Width | 4.25" |
| Depth | 4.72" |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs. |
FAQs
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What is the primary function of the IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost pedal?
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The IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost pedal serves as a guitar preamp with a boost function, offering enhanced signal integrity and tonal versatility, especially useful for live performances and reamping.
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How does the IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost handle different pickups?
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This pedal features an Active/Passive pickup selector, allowing you to optimize the input stage for either type of pickup, ensuring the best possible tonal response.
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What are the PURE and JFET channels on the IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost?
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The PURE channel provides a clean, transparent boost, while the JFET channel adds warmth and harmonic richness, giving you two distinct tonal options.
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Does the IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost work with both live and studio setups?
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Yes, it includes a DI out for direct connection to mixers or audio interfaces, making it suitable for both live use and studio reamping.
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What type of power supply is required for the IK Multimedia Z-Tone Buffer Boost?
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The pedal requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately, or it can operate using a 9V battery for convenience.
Videos
ikmultimedia
Z-TONE Buffer Boost and Z-TONE DI
Reviews
PROS
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Z-Tone knob effectively adjusts tone from fat to bright
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Boost function eliminates need for an extra pedal
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Active/Passive switcher enhances versatility for different instruments
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Quality construction ensures durability
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Subtle EQ balancing improves overall sound quality
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Multiple gain stages offer sound customization
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Useful as a DI box with extra features
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Transparent buffer gain ideal for low output pickups
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Preserves signal fidelity excellently in recording setups
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JFET preamp option for subtle analog warmth
CONS
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Requires adjustment for individual guitars' pickups
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Bypass light can be confusing to interpret
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Active/Passive switch difference not noticeable in live settings
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JFET preamp effect can be too subtle for some
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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In this video Ron Thal demonstrated the Z-TONE Buffer Boost. He is also quoted on IK Multimedia's website as saying:
"I started with the pedal bypassed. Added 50% boost, the guitar became bright & punchy... Then added JFET Z-TONE turned up towards 'Bold' and it totally filled in the middle - what a difference this pedal makes! (Livens up driven tones really well too)."
- Bumblefoot
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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