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Average Price: $249

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$119

$300+

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Description

The Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI is a game-changer for musicians seeking to enhance their sound with sophistication and warmth. Designed with bassists in mind, this all-analog "rig-in-a-box" offers a versatile solution that extends beyond the typical direct box. It features a semi-parametric EQ to allow precision tonal shaping, providing you with the ability to sculpt your sound with a 12dB boost or cut. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Para Driver DI ensures your instrument's natural character remains intact while smoothing out the harshness from pickups.

Its three-channel versatility is perfect for exploring a range of sonic possibilities, from deep, throaty lows to sparkling highs, making it an essential tool for any professional or aspiring musician. The Para Driver DI isn't just about utility; it's about enriching your sound with organic warmth that feels both familiar and fresh. Perfect for bassists, guitarists, and even keyboardists, this DI box bridges the gap between your instrument and the audience, delivering a full-bodied tone that commands attention.

Key Features:

  • All-analog design for warm, organic tones
  • Semi-parametric EQ with 12dB boost/cut
  • Three separate channels for versatile sound shaping
  • Ideal for bass, guitar, and keyboards
  • Smoothes out harshness from pickups
  • Enhances and preserves the instrument's natural character

Product specs

Brand Tech 21
Model SansAmp Para Driver DI
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Bass Effect Pedals, Preamps
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI?

The Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI serves as a versatile preamp and DI box, designed to enhance and shape your instrument's tone with its analog circuitry, making it suitable for both live performances and studio recordings.

Is the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI suitable for both bass and acoustic guitars?

Yes, the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI is designed to work with both bass and acoustic guitars, providing tone-shaping capabilities and DI functionality for a wide range of instruments.

What are the key tone-shaping features of the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI?

The Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI includes controls for Drive, Level, Blend, and a 3-band EQ with sweepable mids, allowing for precise tonal adjustments and the ability to replicate tube amplifier characteristics.

Can the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI be used as a standalone preamp?

Yes, the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI can be used as a standalone preamp, offering rich, tube-like tones and the flexibility to connect directly to a PA system or recording interface.

Does the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI require a specific power supply?

The Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI can be powered using a standard 9V battery or an optional 9V DC power supply, providing flexibility for different performance and recording setups.

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Tech 21 SansAmp PARA DRIVER DI: Bass

Video thumbnail for Tech 21 SansAmp PARA DRIVER DI: Bass by Brett Kingman

Tech 21 SansAmp PARA DRIVER DI: Bass

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for Tech 21•NYC: SansAmp PARA DRIVER DI with electric guitar by Brett Kingman

Tech 21•NYC: SansAmp PARA DRIVER DI with electric guitar

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for Tech 21 SansAmp PARA DRIVER DI: Acoustic guitar by Brett Kingman

Tech 21 SansAmp PARA DRIVER DI: Acoustic guitar

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for Tone Talk - SansAmp Para Driver DI Pedal Review by Fern Fawkes

Tone Talk - SansAmp Para Driver DI Pedal Review

Fern Fawkes

Fern Fawkes

Video thumbnail for Tech 21 - SansAmp Para Driver DI (v1) by Bass Stuff

Tech 21 - SansAmp Para Driver DI (v1)

Bass Stuff

Bass Stuff

Video thumbnail for SansAmp Para Driver DI by Tech 21 by Jonathan Stoyanoff

SansAmp Para Driver DI by Tech 21

Jonathan Stoyanoff

Jonathan Stoyanoff

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent tone shaping and control capabilities

  • Versatile for bass, guitar, and other instruments

  • Compact design saves space on recording desks and pedalboards

  • Allows for saving and recalling multiple tone settings

  • High-quality construction suitable for touring

  • Effective amp/cab simulation for recording

  • Great overdrive tone, from subtle to growly

  • Enhances clarity and robustness of instrument signals

  • Works well with additional pedals and effects

  • Adjustable mid-frequency EQ for diverse sound shaping

CONS

  • Generates noise at high levels; may require a noise gate

Critic Reviews

Rex and the Bass: Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver Di Instrument Preamp Pedal Review

rexbass.com

The Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI impresses with its versatile tone-shaping capabilities, mimicking a tube amplifier's warmth without actual tubes. Its compact, robust design includes intuitive controls and offers compatibility with a variety of instruments, from bass guitars to acoustics and electrics. Users can enjoy a range of tonal options, from clean to gritty, making it a flexible tool for both studio and live settings. While the price might be a consideration, its performance and build quality justify the expense. Overall, this DI box is a solid investment for musicians seeking to enhance their sound palette.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
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1 star
dmitryr

Unique device

This device can be used with both electricguitar, bass or synthesizer. It has cool equalizer - mids can be shifted. So you has 3 band eq, where 2nd migth change frequency. It also has a lamp simulation - but it mostly compress sound to my feeling.

I use this mostly for bass preamping. I really can get lots of different tones thanks to mid shifting, comression (lamp emulation) and drive knob. Overdrive is good.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jesse Lacey uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Jesse Lacey

Singer, Guitarist

Taking Back Sunday

...
Verified via Photo

In the top right of the left pedal case, the Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI can be seen. This photo was posted to his band's official Instagram page.

See how Debbie Googe uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Debbie Googe

Bassist

My Bloody Valentine

...
Verified via Talkbass

A SansAmp Para Driver DI can be seen in this picture of Debbie Googe's My Bloody Valentine pedalboard.

See how Joe Principe uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Joe Principe

Bassist

Rise Against

...
Verified via Deviantart

In a photo by RiseAgainstPictures on DeviantArt, Joe Principe is shown with a Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI as part of his Ampeg setup.

See how Tim Feerick uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Tim Feerick

Bassist

Dance Gavin Dance

...
Verified via YouTube

The Sansamp Para Driver DI is visible in the attached video (a parody rig rundown of Dance Gavin Dance) at 2:13.

See how Jamie Hall uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Jamie Hall

Singer, Guitarist

Tigercub

...
Verified via Instagram

This item can be seen very briefly at one point in this clip, by a section of its name along the top of the frame. However seen as there are no full photographs of this particular pedal on Hall's board it is unclear whether this is the first or second version.

See how Paco Ayala uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Paco Ayala

Singer, Bassist

Molotov

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video Paco Ayala from Molotov can be seen using the Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

See how Chuck Garric uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Chuck Garric

Bassist

Alice Cooper

...
Verified via BassPlayer.com

In an article on BassPlayer.com, Chuck Garric is mentioned using the Tech 21 SansAmp Para Driver DI.

See how Chetes uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Chetes

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the "Chetes Guitar Tour" video by Guitar Gear on YouTube, Chetes uses the Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI for sound equalization.

S

Shane Slade

Bassist

Fit for an Autopsy

...
Verified via YouTube

This pedal is shown at 8:48 in episode 47 of gear masters

See how Johannes Strate uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Johannes Strate

Guitarist

Revolverheld

...
Verified via Photo

On the Duesenberg Guitar website (blog) shows Revolverhead's lead man, Johannes Strate's pedal set up at the 2014 Deichbrand Festival that includes a Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI pictured at top left.

See how Matt Pacco uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Matt Pacco

Guitarist, Bassist

Desperation Band

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Matt Pacco discusses relying on the Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI as a "backup plan" for his board, highlighting its importance in achieving consistent sound quality during performances.

See how Mauro Remiddi uses Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI

Mauro Remiddi

Singer, Keyboardist

Sunny Day Sets Fire

...
Verified via Photo

Mauro Remiddi's use of the Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI is confirmed by a photograph he posted on his Instagram account, where the device is visible in a flight case, indicating its use in his equipment for an upcoming tour.

Album Usage

The Tech 21 Sansamp Para Driver DI has been featured on the following albums:

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 Para Driver DI, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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