preamp suggestions?

[buddyro57]

Hi all-
I have a AI Claurs III (used with either a Schroeder mini 12 or 1010,depending on size) . I like it, but it has so little character, I wondered about the possibility of adding a tube preamp with an optical compressor
and EQ. Problem is I haven't found much with that particular combination.....I have considered Tech 21 stuff, but no tube or compressor. Also, art tube pac...which has no EQ.

anyone know of something?
I should add that I play electric and acoustic basses through the rig.

Many thanks!
Jon

 

[bongomania]

Well, there's the ART Pro Channel, but it's two rack spaces. Seems like of all the single-rack-space channel strip units out there fall a little bit short- either no real tubes, or no optical compression. What I do for my setup is a tube pre with EQ, and a separate compressor pedal.

 

[bongomania]

Oh, and you might have more luck with this query in the "amps" forum.

 

[buddyro57]

Many thanks for that advice,the Pro Channel does sound like it would come the closest to what I need of all the other like-units I have seen. Your idea of using a seperate compressor on the floor makes good sense as well- thanks for your input!
Jon

 

[bluesbasshound]

You mentioned Tech 21 gear... recently I switched to a Sansamp Bass Driver/DI into a newly aquired AB International amp. I think it sounds awesome through a 210 cab I use. The "drive" control coupled with the "blend" and set stratigically blended really emphasizes a "tubey" sound although it is actually analog by design. Makes a great pre amp and is easy to carry around!

 

[bassman10096]

Eden's Navigator has tube preamp, compression and pretty good EQ. For tube preamp alone (get your compression some other way), Alembic's F1-X is the purest and simplest. It's based straight off the Showman circuitry.

 

[Bassist4Life]

I recently got interested in preamps. I've heard and read only good things about the Avalon U5. Seems to be great for live and studio, electric and upright.

Joe

 

[alotabass]

FYI Eden Navigator and Alembic F1X are very simular sonically but the Eden is much more versatile.

 

[buddyro57]

The irony is that I owned an Alembic back when they could be purchased used for 250. - of course i didn't have any use for it so I traded it away for some worthless trinket.
The Alembic joins the long list of ridiculous trades made over the years, like back in 1986 when I sold my minimoog in anvil case for 125. and even delivered it!

Many thanks for all of your helpful suggestions! I think I am starting to salivate over the Navigator- all best to you all- Jon

 

[bongomania]

Here you go! (ART Tube channel FS by a TB'er, snap it up!)
Here you go!
I'd buy it myself if I hadn't just bought a SVPCL.