Tech 21 SansAmp Progammable Bass Driver DI Elite

Andrew Barta, who introduced SansAmp tube emulation in 1989, resisted digital for decades because modellers felt one–dimensional under the fingers. The Programmable Bass Driver DI Elite is Tech 21's answer, a digital bass preamp and DI built to respond to pick attack and the volume knob the way an analogue circuit does. Two modes cover the gig and the studio: Performance holds three main presets within reach, while Studio mode stores up to 128 custom presets.

The front panel carries Drive, Low, Mid and High (active, ±12dB), Presence, Blend and an FET–style Comp inspired by 1950s and 60s analogue designs. The Red Zone changes the knobs' roles to reach Preamp, Filter, Frequency (100Hz–1900Hz), Q (0.5–2.0), Ambiance, Ratio (1:1 to 20:1) and Chorus, including a Mu–tron III–style auto–wah filter. MIDI editing digs into amp, effects and EQ parameters, and the IR section holds a SansAmp IR plus curated, blendable cabinet impulses with support for uploading your own.

Connections cover a stompbox in front of an amp, a preamp driving a power amp, or a direct feed to a PA or computer. A low impedance XLR output with ground lift handles desk duties, while a 1/4-inch output has a level selector. There is also a chromatic tuner, an effects loop, a 1MegOhm input and an all–metal chassis measuring 7.5″ x 5.25″ x 2.0″ (24oz). The Tech 21 MIDI Driver and a 9V universal power supply with Australian prongs are included.

Features

• Performance mode holds three main presets for quick gigging access
• Studio mode stores up to 128 custom presets
• Active Low, Mid and High controls cut or boost ±12dB
• Red Zone adds Filter, Frequency, Q, Ambiance, Ratio and Chorus controls
• Sweepable mid frequency from 100Hz to 1900Hz, Q from 0.5 to 2.0
• Blendable IR section accepts uploaded third–party impulse responses
• Low impedance XLR output with ground lift, plus 1/4-inch level–switchable output
• Includes MIDI Driver, chromatic tuner, effects loop and 9V universal power supply