Which multi effects unit can you use as a preamp?

[wyleeboxer]

Ok just found out in my other thread that you cant use a Boss ME50b as a pre (infront of a power amp) in case of an emergency. Any other comporable multi unit boards out there that you can use as a pre-amp?

thank you

[JanusZarate]

The Line 6 POD series can do that - they have amp modeling and are supposed to be usable by themselves with a PA or with a poweramp. I know that the Bass POD XT Live and the Bass Floor POD can, at least.

EDIT: Yep, I just double-checked. The new Line 6 POD X3 series even features XLR outputs and dual amp modeling, in addition to improved effects and amp/cab models overall. I haven't tried the X3 with bass myself, but I've read good things here.

[winston]

This week I've been running my Boss GT-6B into the Aux inputs on my Eden WT-400 head (bypassing the Eden's preamp & EQ). The Aux needs to see a line level signal to put out full power. With the level control on the back of the GT-6B all the way up and the Master FX level on patches above 100 (120 is the max), I got similar volume as if I were running into the preamp of the Eden, so I'm guessing it puts out close to a line-level signal.

If you just need something to give a line-level signal it would be cheaper/simpler to use a mic preamp like one of the ART tube units.

[perucci]

In general, I would say "anything with line-level out". Simply put, "instrument level" goes into the preamp, and "line level" comes out.

The effects-loop on the back of most amps is "line level".

[MyUsernameHere]

My Korg AX3000b works fine as a pre. So should Zoom the Zoom B2 if its anything like my G9 (guitar version). Why can't you run a ME50 in front of a power amp?

[bongomania]

Low output (-10 dBu).

[wyleeboxer]

Thanks everyone!
Yeah the ME50b doesnt have a line out. One interesting product is the Line 6 Bass Floor Pod, with a line-out etc.. Just checking to see if it has a built in tuner, then Ill do a search here to see what everyone thinks of this unit?

[JanusZarate]

Originally Posted by wyleeboxer

One interesting product is the Line 6 Bass Floor Pod, with a line-out etc.. Just checking to see if it has a built in tuner, then Ill do a search here to see what everyone thinks of this unit?

It doesn't have a tuner, and it has a limited selection of effects. If you get it, you'd really be getting it just for the amp models. It does have an octaver, a chorus, and a few other effects, but it's not full-blown like a regular POD would be.

I used to own a Line 6 LowDown Studio 110, which has the same amp modeling and basic features as the Bass Floor POD. It sounds really good, IMO, and the compressor is great to my ears for some studio-like transparent compression. But again, practically no effects on the amp (just a synth model and an overdriven PSA+SVT model).

[wyleeboxer]

Yeah no tuner..

Could the head phone line out on the ME50B be used as a pre-amp out?

[CraigG]

Zoom B2.1u - even has a tuner, modelling, DI, etc..

[Hawaii Islander]

The Line6 Bass PodXT Live has a built-in tuner.

You could possibly get a Rolls Personal Monitor Amp (about $50.00 new) and hook it up between your boss unit and where your line out goes to.

[5andFretless]

Originally Posted by MysticBoo

The Line 6 POD series can do that - they have amp modeling and are supposed to be usable by themselves with a PA or with a poweramp. I know that the Bass POD XT Live and the Bass Floor POD can, at least.

Behringer's version of these units will also work.

[Vic Winters]

You could always pack a microphone preamp in your gig bag to boost the signal.

[flakeh]

Rocktron blue thunder. Its a pre with some effects.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/produ...cts?sku=180797

[wyleeboxer]

Thanks again everyone!

Ive been doing my research today and its looking like the Zoom B2.1 might be the way to go? Just dont want to kill any good tone with a weak link in the middle of the chain??

[lposavad]

I agree with Vic Winters - before you ditch your ME-50B, take a look at any number of cheap preamps or mini-mixers that could boost your signal to line levels.
Mini-mixers: Behringer sells one for ~$35; TAPCO (designed by Greg Mackie) has one under $50.
Mic preamp: Presonus sells the Tube Mic Pre (mono) for ~$100. Warm up your tone!

These are new prices, you'll find cheaper on craigslist.

If you're fond of your ME-50B tones then try the mixer/preamp route.

UPDATE: There's a Behringer UB802 mixer on craigslist for $30 in San Clemente, another in San Diego for $25.

[Vic Winters]

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/produ...amp?sku=180581

$30, small, simple, works like a charm.

[wagstaff]

korg ax3b,ax5b, i don't know about the ax3000b though. korg are an exelent make

[wagstaff]

they also have built in tuners