EBS Microbass II

[Pmikeyg]

Hey everyone,

I have read all the reviews on the Microbass II and I am considering purchasing one. I am somewhat new to playing bass, but I am progressing rather well. I am not into anything real heavy. I like something a little smoother...R&B, Jazz, etc.
I have an Ashdown Electric Blue 15" 180 combo amp...will this pedal give me more range? Is it worth putting out the money, or should I save a few extra dollars and buy a new amp? Thanks for your time!

 

[RickenBoogie]

If you're looking to "beef up" your tone, buy a new amp. But, if you want a good DI/preamp pedal for gigging, the EBS is a good choice.

 

[Jon Moody]

I used the EBS for about six months and traded it. For me, it underperformed. The EQ is meh, the separate channels are good but lacking some basic features (like separate volume), etc. the thing I did like was that the effects loop had a mix knob.

The DI that I've been enjoying lately is the Aguilar Tone Hammer. Simple, easy to use and the soundman loves it.

 

[Pmikeyg]

I am just playing in the basement, so the amp is sufficient. I think I am just looking for something to add to the amp I have. It really lacks versatility.

Someone else mentioned the tone hammer. Plus, its about $170 cheaper!

 

[Pickebass]

I don't know if the pedal will give you the versatility you are looking for. Ultimately, even the pedal will be affected by the sound of the amp. I own both pedals and like them both. Expecially when going straight to the board or in front of a power amp. The biggest way for either of these pedals to make a difference is to run them directly to the power amp section. I'm not sure if you have a "preamp in" or if your effects loop is before EQ. If it is, you could run the pedal into the return section of your amp and bypass the tone controls completely

 

[topo morto]

The EQ is meh

Yep.

the separate channels are good but lacking some basic features (like separate volume), etc.

Yes, that's a really bad miss too.

I didn't find the basic quality of the distortion very usedul either, although I had the older version without the pre EQ switch.

Overall, thought it was a crap pedal in a nice box.

 

[fishtx]

Another good DI/Pre you should give a look is the Radial Bassbone (it's a a bit cheaper than the EBS as well)...

 

[Pmikeyg]

Thanks for all the input guys. After talking with a few local bass players, the group consensus is that I really need a new amp. I played through a SWR, Markbass, Agular, and Ampeg...they all sound 1000 times better than what I have! Time to lay out a few dollars and get a new rig.

 

[JimmyM]

Ya, it's the truth. Adding stuff to a cheap amp to make it sound good only makes the good stuff you add sound cheap.