Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $249
High-end/Boutique
$70
$201+
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High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash the full potential of your bass with the Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal. A marvel of modern engineering, this pedal is designed in collaboration with SHOE Pedals to provide an exceptional range of tone-shaping options, all within a compact and intuitive package. The magic lies in its high-quality Burr-Brown op-amps, delivering unmatched headroom and ultra-low noise performance. Whether you're dialing in a tight punch or a vintage growl, the ZIO provides a versatile soundscape for any bass player.
The ZIO's control layout is both straightforward and powerful. The OUTPUT knob offers a generous +16dB boost or a -6dB cut, while the BASS and FOCUS controls let you sculpt a powerful low end with precision. The TREBLE knob adds clarity without harshness, ensuring your high frequencies are always on point. For those moments when you need a little extra character, engage the GRIT toggle for natural distortion or the SCOOP toggle for a midrange cut that cleans up muddy frequencies, inspired by the classic "Pultec Trick."
Connect with confidence using the pedal's three independent outputs: a standard 1/4-inch for amps, a balanced XLR for mixing desks or recording interfaces, and a dedicated headphone jack for quiet practice sessions. This versatility makes the ZIO an indispensable tool for gigs, rehearsals, or studio work.
Key Features:
- All-analog signal path with high-quality Burr-Brown op-amps
- +16dB boost and -6dB cut via OUTPUT knob
- BASS and FOCUS controls for low-end shaping
- GRIT and SCOOP toggles for added tonal character
- Three independent outputs: 1/4", balanced XLR, and headphone jack
- +/-12V high voltage rails suitable for active and passive basses
Product specs
| Type | Preamp |
| Form Factor | Pedal |
| Analog/Digital | Analog |
| EQ | 2-band EQ, Focus, Grit, Scoop |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" (out), 1 x XLR (DI out) |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/8" |
| Bypass Switching | Buffered |
| Power Source | 9V DC power supply (included) |
| Power Usage | 200mA |
| Height | 2.25" |
| Width | 3.25" |
| Depth | 4.25" |
| Weight | 1 lbs. |
FAQs
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What is the primary function of the Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal?
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The Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal serves to boost your bass signal and shape your tone using its 2-band EQ, Focus, Grit, and Scoop controls, making it a versatile tool for both live and studio settings.
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Can the Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal be used with a direct input for recording?
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Yes, the pedal features an XLR DI output, allowing you to connect directly to recording equipment or a PA system, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recording.
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Does the Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal require a specific power supply?
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The pedal requires a 9V DC power supply, which is included with the purchase, and it has a power usage of 200mA.
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What type of bypass switching does the Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal have?
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The Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal features buffered bypass switching, which helps maintain signal clarity and strength across longer cable runs.
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Is the Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal suitable for headphone use?
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Yes, the pedal includes a 1/8" headphone output, allowing you to practice silently or monitor your sound directly.
Reviews
PROS
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Solid construction ensures durability and longevity
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Easy-to-use EQ with impactful, pleasing adjustments
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Adds heft to tone without overpowering bass character
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Intuitive EQ that maintains clarity and avoids harshness
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Unique scoop and grit settings enhance tonal versatility
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FOCUS knob effectively clarifies cab tone in one control
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Offers a subtle yet versatile tonal palette
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Balanced DI output is a valuable feature for diverse setups
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Great grit control even at low gain settings
CONS
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Noise floor may be high even with grit and treble boost off
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Non-traditional EQ controls require learning curve
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal.
Features and functionality
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The Bass control offers a low-end boost at 100Hz, while the Focus knob serves as a movable high-pass filter, affecting peak size and shape.
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The "Scoop" toggle switch can dramatically alter midrange and high-end output, making it flexible for tonal adjustments.
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The pedal's two-band EQ, paired with a high-pass filter, allows for nuanced control over bass frequencies, enhancing focus and clarity.
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The Focus knob effectively attenuates rumble frequencies while boosting bass, offering precise tonal control for problematic amplifiers.
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Comparisons
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The grit circuit may not match the quality of those in Bassrig or SansAmp models, suggesting a more polished grit in competing pedals.
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Use cases and applications
User experience
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The rechargeable power supply lasted for a 2-hour practice, dropping from 100% to about half charge, indicating sufficient battery life for typical gigs.
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The rechargeable power supply's portability makes it a convenient option for testing pedal combinations and troubleshooting on a workbench.
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Setup and maintenance
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Caution is advised against fixed jacks instead of cables due to potential tension issues with non-vertical pedal sides, such as Boss pedals.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
253
Unique Bass Preamp
This is a cool pedal. It’s got its own subtle voice, but you can get a ton of different shapes with the bass, treble, and focus knobs once you learn how to use them (along with the scoop setting). They aren’t normal Eq/tone controls, so you really should read the manual. But once you understand them, they are really fun and interactive. It also has a balanced DI out, which is a great feature to have (though I don’t currently use it because I have a Humboldt Bass Simplifier on my board).
I currently have this in a loop switcher and use it as the Eq for about half my presets (I use a boss Eq for my others). I play it scooped with the focus at 9 o’clock, bass at 1 and Treble at 4 o’clock. Gives me a pretty hard scooped sound with lots of treble/transparency that pairs great with dark distortion (my Shift Line Buzz OD) and my compressor (a diamond bass comp Jr).
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Source Audio ZIO Analog Bass Preamp/DI Pedal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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nick_danolaGear IQ 253
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