Tech 21 Bass Driver D.I. V.2 Bassguitar Effects Pedal

Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI V2 — Analog Bass Preamp & DI

The Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI V2 is a 100% analog bass preamp and direct box emulating classic tube amplifier tones. The pedal packs the entire signal chain — preamp, power amp, and speaker/cabinet simulation — into a stompbox. Three simultaneous outputs route the affected signal to a PA via XLR, feed an amp via 1/4", and send a clean parallel signal to a stage monitor.

What sets the Bass Driver DI V2 apart

Unlike digital modelers, this pedal runs entirely on analog SansAmp Tube Amplifier Emulation circuitry — no algorithms, no latency. The built-in cab simulation mimics a multi-miked cabinet. Version 2 added switchable bass (40/80 Hz) and mid (500/1000 Hz) centers, making the pedal compatible with 4-, 5-, and 6-string basses.

Three-output signal routing for stage and studio

Three outputs solve the classic live-rig problem: clean DI to front-of-house while still driving a stage amp.

• Effected XLR Output: Balanced line-level — sends the full SansAmp signal with cab sim to a mixing desk
• Effected 1/4" Output: Instrument level — drives a bass amp's effects return with the emulated tone
• Parallel 1/4" Output: Uneffected, dry — passes the raw bass signal unchanged for stage monitoring

Switchable EQ centers and analog drive

The active EQ is tuned for bass guitar with ±12 dB of cut or boost per band.

• Bass Control: 40/80 Hz switchable center — extends into the low B-string register of extended-range basses
• Mid Control: 500/1000 Hz switchable center — adapts to different pickup types and playing techniques
• Drive Control: Analog overdrive — adds harmonic saturation from clean boost to wooly distortion

Power options and rugged build for touring

Three independent power options and a compact metal chassis make the pedal road-ready.

• Power: 9V battery, DC9 adapter, or 48V phantom power via XLR
• Current Draw: ~6 mA
• Dimensions: ~12 cm × 9.5 cm × 5 cm
• Type: Distortion / preamp / DI