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What is a Sansamp and DI?

Woodell

Woodell

Jan 13, 2009
84
0
Newport News, VA
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#1
Been reading the forums for quite a while and I've seen a lot about the Sansamp and DI but nothing that describes what it is, when it's useful, and when it's needed or not.

I'm playing an active Fender Jazz through a Fender Bassman 150. I play in my garage and at local open mics but no real performances per se. The only effect I have is a Boss ODB-3 overdrive pedal. Would there be any benefit to having one of these?

Is the Sansamp similar to a modeling pedal (like what's built into my Line-6 Spider III guitar amp) or does it do more? Also what is a Direct Input since I hear them used together quite often?
 
#2
A Sansamp is a product by Tech21 which is an amp modeler. The difference between it and the modeling in the Line 6 amp is that the Line 6 runs your signal through an A/D converter into data for processing inside a computer, and then back out through a D/A converter as audio, while the Sansamp is not computer-based and does not convert your audio into data.

A DI is a device that takes the high-impedance unbalanced output of your instrument and converts it into a low-impedance balanced signal for best transmission of the signal into a mixer or recording device.
 
#3
The "do a search" zombies are coming after you.

In a nutshell Sansamp = Tube Emulation. There are several Sansamps....

~Bass Driver DI (BDDI)
~Bass Driver DI Programmable (PBDDI or BDDIP)
~Bass Driver DI Programmable Deluxe (?)
~RBI
~RPM
~VT Bass

Each one will give you a bit of overdrive. I had the Programmable version and regret trading it in. Main gripe is that there is no mid control with the exception of the VT bass

Honestly if you do your homework you should find all the history and information you can digest. The Tech 21 site would be a good start.

DI = Balanced signal to PA to keep you from turning into a giant antenna. I don't know the ins and outs of how it works but again; do some research ;). Most venues will have one, but it is a good idea to be in possession of one if the venue has a crappy one or none at all. The Sansamp Bass Drivers are DIs. DI stands for Direct Input BTW.
EDIT: Bongo Beat me to the punch.
 

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