Which bass preamp should I get?

[Floppystrings]

I'm looking at a few at the moment.

1. Ampeg SCR-DI $250 USD
2. Darkglass Microtubes B7K Ultra V2 $450 USD
3. Mesa Boogie Subway Plus DI $400 USD

Things that I prefer/need:

1. Clean bass tone, with the ability to easily switch from active to passive basses
2. Battery powered (all of my pedals use batteries to avoid hum)
3. Balanced XLR output (this will be sent to my recording interface so I can use a cab sim VST, and load IR's and mix, or adjust them easily)

Any help and advice is appreciated, I am open to suggestions.

 

[2saddleslab]

My only experience is only w/ the Ampeg SCR-DI. According to others, it eats batteries pretty fast. You also have to open the unit to adjust the input pad. Neither issue effects me as I never use batteries, always use passive basses, & love the tone.

 

[Floppystrings]

I'm leaning towards the Mesa, I have to do a little more research I think.

The Ampeg does sound great I agree, it's a shame about the quirky design issues.

 

[ruju]

LR Baggs Stadium bass is definitely one to check out as well.

 

[RattleSnack]

This one is no longer available new, but can be found used for $50 - Seymour Duncan SFX-06 Paranormal Bass. 9V battery lasts long time, like 6 months or more, I think this is kind of onboard preamp packed in a pedal box.
Has two foot switches: bypass for EQ and slap countour. Good quality, clean sounding, I would recommend it to guys who have passive bass but would like it to sound "active".

 

[Floppystrings]

Thanks for the replies, I'm checking all of these out and taking notes!

 

[popgadget]

Tech 21 Paradriver or Bass Driver are not bad choices. I Use the Paradriver DI, and see no difference in noise with power supply or battery.