One Bass two signals?

jpbiggs · #1 07-11-2011, 11:12 AM

Hello,

I want to run two amps with my bass (with mono output) and I was wondering what is the best way to do this. By best way, I mean cheapest but being able to retain the cleanest sound when I'm not using effects. At times I want to be able to have one amp running the bass clean while the other amp running with effects on the bass. Currently I don't have any effects pedals so one option might be to buy one that has a stereo output that allows you to run one channel dry and the other wet (if such a pedal exists).

I appreciate any advice!

**Bryan R. Tyler** · #2 07-11-2011, 11:27 AM

An active splitting device like a mixer is likely your best bet (passive can work but has potential issues). Something like a Boss LS-2 would probably be cheapest.

SoonerMatt · #3 07-11-2011, 11:32 AM

Look into an ABY box. If I needed one I'd start with the Whirlwind Selector.

Unrepresented · #4 07-11-2011, 11:53 AM

I am running parallel amps right now. I use an ABY splitter to allow me to choose between amps or run both simultaneously. Specifically, I'm using the Lehle Little Dual Amp Switcher.

I like that it allows me to be more versatile with effects usage because I can keep one amp dedicated to moving air while the other engages in effected weirdness.

DannDubblewe · #5 07-11-2011, 12:17 PM

Just recently picked up a Radial Bigshot ABY to do just that - works wonderfully. I love testing out effects split between the two channels. There is no loss in signal either. Got it for cheap new on e(vil)Bay. I'm sure the other suggestions here will work just as well or even better, but with a higher price. BAM

slaphappychappy · #6 07-11-2011, 03:50 PM

U can get as said an any splitter or direct y splitter with no switch if u want it permanent. Look on eBay there are heaps.

MikeD1687 · #7 07-11-2011, 04:40 PM

I use the boss ls-2 mentioned above, and it does the job. Probably more than you really need, I only use one setting on it myself. Any aby box will do.

jpbiggs · #8 07-11-2011, 04:42 PM

I want to thank everyone for the feedback! It seems the consensus is an AB box. That makes sense. I think I will go with that.

Thanks again!

hipnotode · #9 07-11-2011, 05:00 PM

you could look into a DI box, they dont have switches or anything usually, but i keep one in between my last pedal and my amp to give myself a line into the mixer at gigs. a pluss for these is that you can lift ground on one output. (so that your chain isnt directly connected to that output).
this is probably possible on an active AB splitter, im not sure.

Unrepresented · #10 07-11-2011, 05:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpbiggs

I want to thank everyone for the feedback! It seems the consensus is an AB box. That makes sense. I think I will go with that.

Thanks again!

An AB box won't allow you to use both amps simultaneously, if that's a feature you're interested in (it was very necessary for me). To run both amps at once you want an ABY box.

jpbiggs · #11 07-11-2011, 05:53 PM

Ah that's what I meant, an ABY box. Thanks!

KeithAlanK · #12 07-11-2011, 08:42 PM

A lot of pedal tuners have a 2nd output you could also use.
Unfortunately, they are always true-bypass so the sound to that amp won't mute when you tune.
However, if you already have one and also have a good volume pedal you're good to go.

Darkglass · #13 07-11-2011, 09:39 PM

If your bass is active (has either active pickups and/or onboard preamp) you should be able to split the signal passively, in layman's terms, connecting two jacks with no circuitry whatsoever.
If you're using a passive bass, a basic buffer will do the trick of avoiding any tone-sucking and any other impedance related issues

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Regards! -Doug