PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The SansAmp Character Series VT Bass DI offers a historical journey through
the most coveted Ampeg®-style bass amp rigs. This multi-function pedal has an
abundance of knob controls, is easy to use, and features our proprietary,
100%
analog
SansAmp technology. The continuously-variable Character control
sweeps through decades of distinctive sounds. You can explore and tailor vari-
ous eras simply by turning a knob.
The VT Bass DI functions as a pre-amp, a stomp box, and as a direct box. In
bypass, VT Bass DI converts the instrument signal to a low impedance bal-
anced output. This prevents signal loss and sound quality deterioration caused
by long cable lengths. When you engage the SansAmp Tube Amplifier
Emulation circuitry via the on-board footswitch, 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. You can also
simultaneously
plug
straight into a power amp or conventional bass amp.
As with each SansAmp model, the controls are designed to give
you
the flexi-
bility to customize your own sound. After all, the greatest inspiration comes
from having the sound that’s right for you.
APPLICATIONS
WITH A BASS AMP RIG:
-As a Pre-Amp:
Run the 1/4”
Output
of VT Bass DI directly into the
power amp input, a.k.a. “effects return” (if applicable), of an amp. This will
bypass the tone-coloring pre-amp section of the amp rig.
-As a Stomp Box:
Run the 1/4”
Output
into the front input of an amp.
For best results, keep VT Bass DI’s
Level
close to unity gain so as not to
overload the amp’s input, which could yield undesirable distortion.
TO DRIVE A POWER AMP:
Run the 1/4”
Output,
or the
XLR
Output
to the corresponding input of a power amp, and adjust your stage vol-
ume with the
Level
control of VT Bass DI.
NOTE:
When running into the power amp input of an amp or a power amp
alone, make sure to set the
Output Level Switches
as follows:
If using 1/4-inch: +10dB engaged (in position).
If using XLR: -20dB disengaged (up position).
Then adjust
Level
as needed. If you are so inclined, this is the time to crank it!
TO RECORD DIRECT:
Plug the
XLR
or 1/4”
Output
directly into the
input of a mixer/recorder. Work with the input trim control on the mixer/
recorder and be sure not to overload its input. If the
Level
on the VT Bass DI
is below 12 o’clock and is overloading the board, use the respective output
level switch to reduce the output:
If using 1/4-inch: +10dB disengaged (up position).
If using XLR: -20dB engaged (in position).
Bear in mind full-range systems yield a wide frequency response. Therefore,
we suggest you start with the EQ levels at 12 o’clock and then increase/
decrease to taste.
GUIDE TO CONTROLS
DRIVE
adjusts the overall amount of gain and overdrive, similar to when the
output section of a tube amp is being pushed.
CHARACTER
sweeps through an entire range of tonal possibilities asso-
ciated with Ampeg®-style amplifiers. In addition to modifying the frequency
response, the Character control also influences the attack and drive character-
istics. Therefore, you may need to adjust your gain and tone settings after
tweaking the Character control.
Settings below 12 o’clock
will give you the ‘70s powerhouse, the SVT.
Around 12 o’clock
will introduce you to the studio staple, the flip top.
Above 12 o’clock
increases the gain and crunch for less polite, modern
rock, indie bass sounds.
Full up
gives you distorted bass tones from Yes to Crimson to King’s X styles.
MID, LOW, HIGH.
Unlike passive controls that only cut, these
active
tone controls cut or boost ±12dB from unity gain (12 o’clock). Mid is 1kHz.
Low is 125 Hz. High is 3.2kHz.
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