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Which multi effects unit can you use as a preamp?

#2
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.
 
#3
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.
 
#4
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".
 
#8
wyleeboxer said:
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?
Click to expand...

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).
 
#16
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.
 

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