1990s Tech 21 SansAmp Bass DI Direct Box Original Version

For your kind consideration is this rare, vintage Tech 21 SansAmp Bass DI. This is the very first, and some say best sounding, version that does not use phantom power and only operates with the internal 9v battery (not included). These original SansAmp DI boxes used internal controls before the Bass Driver we all commonly think of was introduced with external knobs to more easily dial in your tone. This unit is in fantastic, well cared for condition with only a few tiny paint chips along the edge here and there as shown. It features Presence, Drive, Level, and Blend controls to dial in the tone on the XLR output through its tube amplifier emulation circuit, which is activated using the "Active XLR" flush mounted button. It has been tested and is fully functional. This would be a great addition to your studio or stage setup. The full manual is available as a PDF on the Tech 21 support page. Enjoy!

From Tech 21:

For studio recording and live performances, you get all the benefits, convenience, and portability of a direct box without sacrificing the warmth, presence and punch of a miked-up bass amplification system.

In bypass, SansAmp Bass DI functions like any other active transformerless direct box. Without changing the sound, it converts the instrument signal to a low impedance balanced output. This prevents signal loss and sound quality deterioration caused by long cable lengths. When you engage the SansAmp Bass DI Tube Amplifier Emulation circuitry, it not only converts the signal, it gives you the sound and responsiveness of a miked-up pro stage rig - direct into a recording console or P.A. system.

Your individual playing style, your individual musical style, and your guitar's individual tonality each play an important role in the resulting sound. While the internal setting is user ready, the controls are designed to offer flexibility. These trimmable internal controls give you the option of customizing your sound...from big, round, smooth jazz...to dean, punchy slap fusion...to metal meltdown.

The original SansAmp Pedal and SansAmp Rackmount each offer a broad range of pure, natural tube amplifier sounds for direct recording and live performances. Our exclusive Tube Amplifier Emulation technology has now been adapted specifically for bass. As with each SansAmp model, SansAmp Bass DI is engineered to deliver consistent quality sound studio to studio, club to club, arena to arena.