Best recording bass DI with preamp features?

[stratmagik87]

Hey there TB'ers.

I'm sure there are threads out there (I'll look) but I wanted to create this new as well in case something better has come along. I want to be able to record bass with a good tonal range and versatility without buying a full on amp.

Some I have been thinking about include the Darkglass stuff, GK Plex, Boogie Subway... etc.

Any ideas?
Matt

 

[Bertr]

I am far from having tried everything on the market, but I am fine with Ampeg PF50T or Boogie Subway DI (I always play clean).
I know the PF50T is an amp, but I strictly use it connected to a mixing desk.
It has a load for the poweramp, so no need for a cab. (that being said I use an external 8R power resistor to avoid adding heat inside the amp). The boogie can get very close to the Ampeg or a SansAmp bass DI. (In a mix, most people won't be able to tell the difference).

 

[Mark Ambler]

I was going to start a new thread as I'm also looking for a DI.
I really like the direct box in Logic audio pro X.
If you select the bass amp you can configure it as a direct box also.
The settings I'm using are; Boost = 5, HF cut = On, Tone = 2 (switched on)
Sounds great imo. I'm wondering where it's based on an existing hardware preamp D.I?

EDIT Looks to me like the Logic DI is based on the Avalon U5.

Re preamp / D.Is, the 2 notes Le Bass looks interesting and has a sweepable mid on one channel.
The DarkGlass stuff is high quality, but quite pricey.

There is a demo of the 'Le Bass' which a clean sound which sounds very good to me. Both pedals have speaker sim options.



2.35 Finger style
3.19 Slap

 

[DirkP]

Maybe have a look at mic-preamps, too. Most have a High-Z input and are transformer based. They are IMO closer to what is used in studios in many cases than the DI-outs on bass amps.
As a pure DI I really like the Neve RNDI, for me it has a "sound", but it is not a preamp.
Mic-Preamps (budget oriented, I guess you don't want to invest 2-3000,- for a preamp):
These are very good for the money, I prefer them to most offerings from bass-gear manufacturers:

Warm Audio WA-12
Warm Audio Tonebeast
(both API oriented)
Warm Audio WA-73 or with EQ WA-73 EQ
(new, Neve oriented)
GAP Pre73 (different versions)
The API-Tranzformer LX looks interesting, but I never tried it.

I own the GAP 73 DLX and the Tonebeast for > 2 years.

 

[N. Kentucky Bass]

Best? Noble dual-tube preamp/DI pedal. I landed on this more than a year ago. Amazing tone and easy to use. I use it as a pre to my power amp and DI for direct. Two tubes. 3 pounds. Great form factor.