Cons
- Sound coloring can be too pronounced.
- Drive knob may attenuate low frequencies.
Pros
- Offers a tone reminiscent of SVT tube amps.
- Loved by P-bass owners and passive pickup users.
- Solid build.
- Continues to receive high ratings over the years.
The Tech 21 SansAmp Character VT is a preamp that reproduces the voicing of old Ampeg SVT Tube bass amps in a compact pedal format.
What separates this from other preamp models is its Character knob, which changes the Drive voicing as you go higher, from a vintage SVT tube tone to a compressed modern tone. The Drive knob lets you set the amount of overdrive type effect, which as mentioned earlier, is affected by the Character knob.
For more tone shaping, there’s a Bite button that tightens up the low frequencies while adding punch to the high frequencies.
Other features include Speaker Simulation, 3-Band EQ, Level, Blend, and multiple DI outputs. If you’re a fan of the classic SVT tube sound, or if you’re looking for a preamp to color your tone, then this is for you.
Specifications
- Preamp: SansAmp
- Controls: Level, Blend, Low, Mid, High, Character, Drive, Phantom, – 10dB 1/4″ Pad, -20dB XLR Pad, Bite, Speaker Simulation
- DI Function: XLR Balanced Out
- Input: 1 x 1/4″
- Output: 1 x 1/4″ Parallel, 1 x Balanced XLR, 1 x 1/4″ Unbalanced
- Power: Optional AC Adapter or 9V Battery
- Dimensions: 2.5″ x 5.75″ x 4.25″
- Weight: 4.25 lbs
