Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $234
High-end/Boutique
$70
$201+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Unleash the full spectrum of your bass guitar's potential with the Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI Effects Pedal. This versatile pedal is a must-have for bassists seeking to elevate their sound, whether on stage or in the studio. With its SansAmp Tube Amplifier Emulation Circuitry, this pedal faithfully replicates the warm, rich tones of a classic tube amp, providing your bass with an authentic, dynamic range that will captivate any audience.
The Bass Driver DI offers intuitive controls for tailoring your sound, including presence, level, and blend knobs that allow for precise tonal shaping. Its full EQ section is specially designed for bass, offering 12dB of cut/boost to sculpt your sound with precision. Whether you're aiming for a deep, round low-end or a punchy, articulate mid-range, this pedal is equipped to deliver.
Designed for bassists who demand flexibility and reliability, the Bass Driver DI is compact yet powerful, fitting seamlessly into any pedalboard setup. With its durable construction, this pedal is built to withstand the rigors of gigging while maintaining the clarity and quality of your tone.
Key Features:
- SansAmp Tube Amplifier Emulation Circuitry for authentic tube amp tones
- Intuitive presence, level, and blend controls
- 12dB of cut/boost EQ tailored specifically for bass
- Compact and robust design, perfect for gigging and studio use
- Direct Input (DI) functionality for seamless integration into live and recording setups
Product specs
| Brand | Tech 21 |
| Model | Sansamp Bass Driver D.I. |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2000s |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Bass Effect Pedals, Preamps |
| Pedal Format | Standard |
FAQs
-
What is the primary function of the Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI?
-
The Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI serves as a preamp and DI box, allowing bassists to achieve amp-like tones directly through a PA system or recording console without using an actual amplifier.
-
Does the SansAmp Bass Driver DI work well with both active and passive basses?
-
Yes, the SansAmp Bass Driver DI is designed to work effectively with both active and passive basses, providing versatile tone shaping and DI capabilities for various bass setups.
-
Can the Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI be used in a live performance setting?
-
Absolutely, the SansAmp Bass Driver DI is well-suited for live performances, offering bassists the ability to send a balanced signal to the PA system while shaping their tone with its onboard controls.
-
What are the key tone controls available on the SansAmp Bass Driver DI?
-
The SansAmp Bass Driver DI features controls for drive, presence, blend, bass, treble, and level, allowing users to customize their sound from clean to overdriven tones.
-
Does the SansAmp Bass Driver DI require a power supply?
-
Yes, the SansAmp Bass Driver DI requires either a 9V battery or a standard 9V power supply for operation, ensuring flexibility in various performance environments.
-
Is the Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI suitable for recording applications?
-
Yes, the SansAmp Bass Driver DI is ideal for recording, providing bassists with a high-quality direct signal that emulates the warmth and character of a mic'd bass amp.
Videos
Sweetwater
Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI Demo - Sweetwater Sound
Reviews
PROS
-
Distinctive "clanky" high-end adds punch and growl
-
Versatile frequency shift buttons for mid and bass
-
Presence knob enhances string attack in mixes
-
Blend knob offers customizable sound mixing
-
Useful parallel out port for unaffected signal
-
Known for epic bass tones, unmatched by other products
-
Perfect for recording, bypassing amp EQ and pre-amp
-
Adds warmth and punch, ideal for punk rock tones
-
Includes 9v battery, considerate feature
-
Highly recommended for experimenting with sound
CONS
-
Battery compartment is delicate compared to the rest of the unit
-
Raw, less refined sound compared to newer versions
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI Effects Pedal.
Features and functionality
-
The newer SansAmp models include a mid knob and a 500/1000Hz toggle, addressing previous complaints about mid-range control.
Source -
The 40/80Hz toggle for the Bass knob is designed to manage sub frequencies, particularly useful for extended range basses.
Source -
The pedal is often used at the end of the signal chain to shape the sound, with all EQ on the amp set flat.
Source -
It's noted that the overdrive section lacks filtering, causing potential flubbiness when too much bottom end is sent to it.
Source -
The Steve Harris signature model features two gain channels, cab simulation, and an internal tuner, though the tuner is noted as not highly accurate.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
The SansAmp Bass Driver DI is praised for enhancing live performances, offering a sound akin to an Ampeg SVT setup without needing an amp.
Source -
Some users find the overdrive flubby unless used with a bass having an active EQ circuit, allowing for better control over the distorted frequencies.
Source -
The SansAmp can emulate a tube-like distortion with the "bite" button, providing a gnarly, clanky attack reminiscent of Steve Harris' tone.
Source -
The pedal can achieve a growly midrange with a supportive low end by cutting lows on active EQ and adding them back via the pedal.
Source
Comparisons
-
Some users prefer the Darkglass Vintage Microtubes or Aguilar Tone Hammer for DI/preamp duties, citing superior sound quality over the SansAmp.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Shavo Odadjian is listed as using the Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI Effects Pedal on Siteofadown, a dedicated System of a Down fan site.
I took a picture of his pedal board when they played at Amoeba Records in august.
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 Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI Effects Pedal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Tech 21 Bass Effects Pedals
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Bass Effects Pedals
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
nowavvesGear IQ 309
-