Since it rolled out in the 1990s, the Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI has become an irreplaceable, go-to tone tool for bassists of all styles. Equally at home on the stage, in the studio, or in a cramped rehearsal space, the Bass Driver DI delivers flexible, variable tone with a balanced XLR output. It can emulate subtle tube warmth to aggressive overdrive—who needs an amp when you've got the SansAmp?
This early 2000s SansAmp bass Driver DI is the first-generation circuit that helped define modern direct-in bass tone. It features straightforward controls: Treble, Bass, and Presence allow you to shape the EQ, then a Drive knobs sets the amount of grit, Blend allows you to mix in some dry singnal, and Level sets the output volume of the pedal. As you explore the options, you can dial in just the right balance of grit, warmth, and articulation. Whether you're using it as a preamp, a distortion pedal, or a DI box, the SansAmp is a heavy-duty, reliable tool built to get the job done.
This 2000s Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI shows some scuffs and signs of use, but it functions 100% as it should and sounds fantastic. The previous owner added velcro to the bottom, and one end has some paint wear from what looks like duct tape (see photos). All in all, it's a used pedal with a lot of life left in the tank.
If you're looking to add flexibility to your bass rig—or if you want to ditch the amp and get the signature SansAmp sound straight into the board—this classic Tech 21 DI is still one of the best options out there. It also may be one of the best sounding and most flexible overdrive pedals for bass.