I like to have several features at hand when I'm playing amplified double bass. Fortunately, most if not all, are available in the form of pedal-sized devices:
* High-impedance input (~1 - 10 megOhm) to load piezo pickups for best sound;
* A variable high-pass filter to selectively cut the woof and boom endemic to low frequencies;
* A notch filter to help fight feedback;
* DI to transmit my bass signal to FOH without signal losses;
* Tone controls to tailor the sound to my liking;
* Phase reverse to help fight feedback.
Francis Deck's FDeck HPF/Pre II provides a high-impedance load, variable high-pass filter, phase reverse, and volume at an affordable price.
The Fishman pro-EQ platinum provides these functions and adds switchable phantom power, variable input gain, compression, 5-band graphic EQ, and a DI with ground lift and pre-post switch.
The EA Doubler has most of these features and provides 310/550 watts into 8/4 Ohms.
The Acoustic Image Clarus + has most of these features and provides 450/800 watts into 8/4 Ohms.
In order to go "direct to the desk" you'll need a DI. I've successfully gigged using only an FDeck HPF/Pre and a Countryman DI. Most of the time, I take the Fishman instead.
Try the Tone Hammer at rehearsal and see how it sounds; you've got nothing to lose by trying.
Good luck!
