What is the best preamp?

[Bassman62]

One thing that I insist on when considering pre-amps is that they have a variable crossover, the Ashdown that I use with the powered cabs that I built goes down to 30hz (which is well below where you would want to go).
Having a very wide ranging variable crossover allows more flexibility in catering for varying accoustics.

 

[prockenklang]

That's easy,you want the best,buy a Millennia!

John

 

[tombowlus]

Lots of great advice, here already! The Berg line driver is, indeed, one of my faves, and I am really looking forward to hearing a Millennia or Bass Art Classic. Both are sure to be awesome!

But, for your tubilicious tone quest, I'd check out the following:

Aguilar DB 659
Aguilar DB 680
Alembic F-1X (with or without SF-2)
Ashdown EVO II RPM-1
Demeter HBP-1
Demeter VTBP-201
Demeter VTBP-201s
Eden Navigator
Fender TBP-1
Kern IP-777
Read Purity
SIB Fatdrive
Summit Audio TD-100 (see also "Direct Boxes")
The Low End True Voice (table top)
Tube Works Blue Tube (rackmount) - a true bargain on the used market

These are all fine units, and your presonal preference will tell you which one is "best." Of course, different tubes in any of these can make a huge difference (except in the Eden, which I find sounds the same with pretty much any tube).

 

[evertalbers]

Rackmount? Do you live in an area where you can get your hands on a Hevos?

 

[John D Harris]

For the tone you described either an Alembic F-1X, Kern IP-777, or Read Purity.

 

[Big String]

The DB659 with NOS Telefunken Black Smooth Plates is fat, thick, punchy, clear, even, and just plain whoopin' via the IP310. There isn't a lot of variation, but by doing a simple adjustment of the Gain dial high/Master lower or Gain lower/Master higher you can achieve two of the most useable live sound/tones. Also by adding either the Bright or Bass boost switches adds yet another variation. I used these method and add the MID as needed or flavored. Also a nice Sadowsky Bass helps to add even more. All in all pretty darn versitile.

I've also rolled some NOS 5751 into my Demeter 201s and by keeping it on the 60hz setting and cranking up the mids it sounds pretty awesome too, but I prefer the DB659 at least in the IP. A TB friend has mentioned to me he prefers the Dem HBP over the Dem 201s in the IP310, but feels the 201s would be very well matched in the IP212. I'm not able to verify my taste since I don't have the 212. Good to know even though I've heard they are very close except the 10" 12" thing. Season to Taste...mmmmm.

 

[j.s.basuki]

Lots of great advice, here already! The Berg line driver is, indeed, one of my faves, and I am really looking forward to hearing a Millennia or Bass Art Classic. Both are sure to be awesome!

But, for your tubilicious tone quest, I'd check out the following:

Aguilar DB 659
Aguilar DB 680
Alembic F-1X (with or without SF-2)
Ashdown EVO II RPM-1
Demeter HBP-1
Demeter VTBP-201
Demeter VTBP-201s
Eden Navigator
Fender TBP-1
Kern IP-777
Read Purity
SIB Fatdrive
Summit Audio TD-100 (see also "Direct Boxes")
The Low End True Voice (table top)
Tube Works Blue Tube (rackmount) - a true bargain on the used market

These are all fine units, and your presonal preference will tell you which one is "best." Of course, different tubes in any of these can make a huge difference (except in the Eden, which I find sounds the same with pretty much any tube).

Don't forget to include Glockenklang Bass Art Classic Preamp. It is the warm,cleanest ,purest preamp I ever have ( I have DB 680, Dem VTBP 201 S etc.)
Just soo good for both Electric and Double bass, but only for good basses because it reveal the detail sound of your bass, but if your bass sound is bad... sorry it will sound really bad.. nothing to hide.
I have both the Pre and the Bass Art Head, just waiting for AI to make Focus SA with rack mount then I'll be usinjg it with the pre, because the Head is quite heavy.

 

[tombowlus]

Don't forget to include Glockenklang Bass Art Classic Preamp.

I didn't (read my post again).

 

[Headroom]

Mr. tombowlus is comprehensive.

 

[tombowlus]

Mr. tombowlus is comprehensive.

My wife always says I am complete.


Or is that a complete something or other?

 

[BartmanPDX]

If we end up getting together, you can try out my aguilar 659

Sounds good. I'm really hoping a Portland GTG takes place and that I can attend.

As for preamps, I may have to scale back my plans, at least in the short term. Though I have drooled over the Demeter and others, I am working on getting my first Sadowsky. Since my wife bought me an IP 310 for my birthday in May, I'm going to have to tread carefully, even after I sell some basses.