The SansAmp XB Driver integrates key elements from Tech 21’s most popular bass products – the SansAmp Bass Driver DI, Para Driver DI, Q\Strip and the dUg Pinnick Ultra Bass 1000 – and condenses them into a single sleek machine. And just like that, you can go from traditional to diabolical.
The 100% analog, dual-channel SansAmp XB Driver is a sophisticated dual-amp, bi-amp, DI toolbox with 15 knobs and 3 switches. Intuitively arranged, like familiar amplifier controls, you can easily craft a broad range of bass tones without a PhD. The Clean and Drive channels are full-frequency, independent channels that can be used individually or blended together via the Mix footswitch. In Mix mode, you can engage the Crossover switch to activate the sweepable LPF & HPF filters, which enables you to even further carve out your own tone footprint.
The dual Clean and Drive channels have individual 3-band active EQ with sweepable semi-parametric mid-range, and Level controls. The Clean channel includes a compressor, while the Drive channel has its own overdrive control to emulate hard-pushed amps, a Bite switch to accentuate high-end harmonics, a Pre/Post SansAmp semi-parametric mid-range switch, and the above mentioned Crossover switch to merge high-end distortion with clean low-end bass. A Master volume completes the package.
While inspired predominantly by dUg Pinnick, the SansAmp XB Driver also gives a nod to other bass tone innovators such as Geddy Lee, John Entwistle and Chris Squire. All were notorious for running entirely separate, complicated bass amp systems together in a way that defied common logic yet yielded magical results.
As is the case with all Tech 21 SansAmps, the XB Driver offers tons of flexibility and versatility for many different styles. It runs on an included 18V DC universal auto-switching power supply with interchangeable international plugs for use anywhere in the world. Other features include 1/4-inch and XLR Outputs, Effects Loop, Tuner Out, rugged all-metal housing, metal knobs and custom footswitch actuators. Measures 7.5”l x 4.75”w x 2.0”h.
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