Gear Reviews
Sonic Farm 2di4 Pentode Direct Box Review
Sonic Farm 2di4 Pentode Direct Box Review…
If you spend a decent amount of time on stage or in the studio, you may know that a good direct box (DI) is a bass players secret weapon. Even though some engineers prefer to mic a bass cabinet, a high quality DI signal from the bass is immeasurably handy in both settings. While there is no shortage of decent and relatively inexpensive passive DI boxes, many players and engineers agree that a high quality active DI makes a world of difference in making your bass sound as good as possible. Sonic Farm may not yet be a household name among bass players, but the small Canadian company has garnered an impressive reputation, crafting exquisite studio gear for recording and mastering engineers for years. Their 2di4 tube direct box is not marketed or designed specifically for bass, but it’s abundantly clear that the unit excels at generating killer bass tone. It’s also is well suited to seamlessly integrate into your stage rig with varying degrees of transparency, and signal routing flexibility. I was lucky enough to take the 2di4 for a spin on a handful of gigs and a couple sessions, and I’m happy to report that it’s a bumper crop on the Sonic Farm (okay, just one farm pun, I couldn’t help it).
The 2Di4 is housed in a very rugged steel enclosure and is rock solid. Every component clearly was chosen for its robustness, fidelity, or both. The shoebox-shaped chassis, painted bright red with cream lettering is hard to miss, and definitely got some “what the heck is that?” comments from other players and audience members. The volume knob, jacks, switches, and buttons all feel more than adequately sturdy and smooth, as do the 1/4” and XLR jacks.
While the 2di4 is relatively simple in its operation, there is some nuance to the way the controls function. There are a couple options for boosting the low and high EQ, in a subtle and musical but never ‘over-the-top’ way. Some may find this a little underwhelming as a tone-shaping tool, but in my opinion, these low/hi boost switches have a very effective, albeit understated way of bringing out the natural qualities of your bass. The gradual, wide slope of the low/hi boosts may be gentle, but there’s no mistaking their effect when listening in the studio, or on the gig, in my experience anyways. 2 internal trimpots on the front panel allow for fine-tuning the amount of boost for each band (I favored the maximum gain/fully clockwise position). If you require powerful EQ and want to use this unit straight into a power amp, make sure you can get the EQ you need either on your instrument’s active electronics, or some other unit in your chain with EQ (I recommend the Empress Para EQ for very accurate and powerful equalization in a small pedal form factor).
The most engaging feature of the 2di4 has to do with the triode/pentode switch on the front panel. Aside from the difference in output between the two settings (pentode is clearly a hotter signal), the tonal variation between the two settings allow for some nice variety. I found the triode setting to be fairly clean and neutral, with nice air and fidelity. The pentode setting on the other hand, is much more full-bodied with a stronger midrange push. At higher gain settings, it doesn’t so much ‘break up’ as much as it ‘opens up’ with respect to harmonic richness and fullness. The pentode setting provided just the right amount of thickness to my sound, but retained plenty of articulation and definition. I’ve used both settings quite a bit, and I don’t dislike anything about either one. They provide two good tonal options that complement the usefulness of one another. An upright player who I roped in for testing remarked that the Triode setting was great for his upright, due to its clarity and articulation, whereas the Pentode setting added warmth, fullness, and midrange complexity for electric bass.
There are a couple important things to know about the 2di4: 1.) You need to mute the unit before you switch tube settings (T/P) or else you get a loud “pop” when the button is depressed. It’s not a huge deal, but it is important to remember, in order to avoid this loud popping sound through your speakers or front of house. 2.) The Low and Hi boost switches are overridden by the gain button, which adds 9dB or 5dB of gain (in Pentode and Triode mode, respectively) to the front end of the circuit. So if you have the unit set to add low and high EQ, and you hit the “Gain” button, the overall volume increases and the EQ controls are bypassed. The result is less overall high and low frequency extension and tonal “width”, and more midrange focus, relatively speaking.
As I mentioned in the intro, there are a few ways to integrate this unit into your stage rig. The 2di4 provides plenty of gain to use straight into a power amp, or in my case, the effects return/power amp input on my 900w micro head. For the most transparent operation on stage, I found the 1/4” “Amp” jack on the front panel to sound almost identical to plugging straight in to my amp, although the effect of the buffering in this output gives just a touch of sonic refinement to the dry signal. This output is ideal for those don’t want to “mess with success” by altering what goes into the front end of their amp. However, the real magic lies within the dual XLR outputs on the rear of the unit. There are discrete “D.I.” and “Line Out” XLR jacks, which both harness the lovely tube-ocity of the circuit, with the “Line Out” signal being noticeably hotter (Sonic Farm adds that the DI output was made with a console mic input in mind and has a 12dB step-down transformer to bring the level down from the line level). I found myself using one XLR line for my amp, and the other one to send to front of house/recording console. This let me hear how the 2di4 was reacting through my stage rig. Note: Using the 2di4 in this way requires a special cable that has a female XLR connector on one end, and an unbalanced 1/4” on the other. (The 2di4 users manual helps explain exactly what type of cable is required for the various output configurations, and Sonic Farm responded that they are more than glad to steer customers in the right direction, as well as build customers the cables required for each individual’s needs.)
Comparing the 2di4 to plugging straight in to my Puma 900, the Sonic farm adds a level of richness, detail and articulation that reminds me of how a bass sounds after its been tracked and mastered: refined, balanced, full and taut, you get the picture…Recording direct into Protools HD, I was floored by how large and in charge the 2di4 sounded, especially in pentode mode. Without a trace of brashness or harshness, it was effortlessly present, warm and articulate. The engineer I worked with was quick to say that this was the best my bass has ever tracked (and this is in comparison to vintage API, Neve, and Universal Audio channels, not to mention some major bass preamp/DI contenders that I’ve hauled over there in the last few years).
So what’s not to like? Well, you may say: “why would I buy a DI for this kind of money when my passive DI box works just fine?” And I would reply: “For lots of players, a passive DI is totally sufficient”. Not every player/band/setting requires the level of finesse that the 2di4 delivers. Not every bass player needs a USA fender bass, some guys are just as happy with a Squier or similar budget-level instrument. It’s not for me to say who needs what. What I will say is: if you’ve spent time, energy and money on crafting your ideal bass sound, there are few pieces of gear that improve and enhance the natural sound of your bass as well as the 2di4. Nothing I’ve heard offers the same level of balance and articulate warmth, not to mention the flexibility and build quality.
The 2di4 is priced at $850 CAD (approx. $690), which is by no means cheap, but for those who already have spent bundles of cash on a great sounding custom bass (or three), the Sonic Farm is one of the best methods of preserving and communicating the exquisite sound of your bass in the studio and on stage. And if you consider yourself a tone-o-phile (like I do), you should know that the 2di4 is REALLY all that, and highly worthy of your consideration. Check out Sonic Farm’s website for more info www.sonicfarm.com
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Introduction:
The Joyo Monomyth bass preamp pedal is designed to offer bassists a comprehensive range of tonal options, combining modern features with practical functionality. With independent channels for EQ and overdrive, as well as useful additions like a cab sim and DI output, the Monomyth aims to be a versatile tool for both live performances and studio sessions. This review will delve into the pedal’s specifications, controls, and overall performance to determine if it lives up to its promise of delivering quality and flexibility at an affordable price.
Specifications:
– Dimensions: 130 * 110 * 50 mm
– Weight: 442g
– Working Voltage: DC 9V
Controls:
The Joyo Monomyth is equipped with a comprehensive set of controls designed to provide maximum tonal flexibility:
– Voice: Adjusts the character of the overdrive, from distortion to fuzz.
– Blend: Balances the dry and effected signals, crucial for maintaining low-end presence.
– Level: Sets the overall output volume.
– Drive: Controls the amount of gain in the overdrive channel.
– Treble Boost: Enhances high and mid frequencies for clarity in complex passages.
– Gain Boost: Adds extra gain, particularly effective at low gain settings to enhance the low e.
– EQ Function Controls: Features a 6-band graphic EQ plus a master control for precise nal shaping.
– Ground Lift Switch: Helps eliminate ground loop noise.
– Cab Sim Switch: Activates a simulated 8×10″ cab sound.
– LED Light Control: Customizes the pedal’s ambient lighting.
Performance:
The Joyo Monomyth shines in its dual-channel design, offering both a transparent EQ channel and a versatile overdrive channel. The 6-band EQ allows for detailed tonal adjustments, preserving the natural character of your bass while providing ample flexibility. The voice control mimics the functionality of the Darkglass Alpha Omega, shifting from distortion to fuzz, with a sweet spot around the middle for balanced tones.
The blend control is essential for retaining the low end when using distortion, ensuring your bass remains powerful and clear. The treble and gain boosts, available on the overdrive channel, further enhance the pedal’s versatility, making it suitable for everything from subtle drive to full-blown fuzz.
Outputs are plentiful, with a DI and XLR out for direct recording or ampless setups, and a headphone out for convenient practice sessions. The cab sim switch adds a realistic 8×10″ cab sound, enhancing the Monomyth’s utility in live and studio environments.
Pros:
– Versatile Control Set: Offers a wide range of tones, from clean to fuzz.
– Blend Control: Maintains low-end presence.
– Robust Outputs: DI, XLR, and headphone outs make it adaptable for various setups.
– Affordable: Provides high-end functionality at a budget-friendly price.
– Sturdy Construction: Durable build quality ensures reliability.
Cons:
– Plastic Knobs: May feel less premium compared to metal controls.
– Boosts Limited to Overdrive Channel: Treble and gain boosts do not affect the EQ channel.
– Cab Sim only on the XLR out: how cool would it be to also have it on the headphone out?
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Joyo Monomyth stands out as a versatile and powerful bass preamp pedal, offering a range of features that cater to both traditional and modern bassists. Its dual-channel design, comprehensive control set, and robust output options make it a valuable tool for achieving a wide spectrum of tones, from clean and warm to heavily distorted. For bassists seeking flexibility, reliability, and excellent value, the Joyo Monomyth is a top contender.
For more information, visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/267.html
Review of the Joyo Double Thruster…
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Introduction: When it comes to bass distortion, finding a pedal that delivers a wide spectrum of tones while maintaining the essential low end can be challenging. The Joyo Double Thruster, a modern bass distortion pedal designed to cater to the diverse needs of bassists was a pleasant surprise that we had the opportunity to review. From subtle overdrive to full-on fuzz, the Double Thruster delivers with versatility and affordability.
Specs: The Joyo Double Thruster is compact yet robust, making it ideal for both stage and studio use. Here are its key specifications:
Dimensions: 109 * 72 * 48 mm
Weight: 250g
Working Voltage: DC 9V
Controls: The Double Thruster features a comprehensive control set that allows for precise tonal sculpting:
Tone: Adjusts the overall tonal character of the distortion.
Blend: Critical for bassists, this control blends the dry signal with the distorted signal, ensuring the low end remains intact.
Volume: Sets the output level of the pedal.
Gain: Controls the amount of distortion, from mild overdrive to full fuzz.
Gain Boost Switch: Provides a noticeable boost, especially at lower gain settings, enhancing the low end and adding depth to the tone.
Mid Boost Switch: Boosts mid frequencies, helping the sound cut through the mix with greater clarity and definition.
LED Light Control: Customizes the ambient lighting of the pedal.
Performance: The Joyo Double Thruster excels in delivering a range of distortion tones while retaining the essential low end that bassists need. The blend control is particularly useful, allowing users to mix the clean and distorted signals to maintain clarity and punch. The gain boost switch adds a pleasing depth to the low end, especially noticeable at lower gain settings, while also compensating for low end loss at higher gain levels. The mid-boost switch enhances the pedal’s ability to cut through complex mixes, making it ideal for intricate playing.
In terms of versatility, the Double Thruster can emulate a variety of distortion sounds, from subtle warmth to high-mid, djenty grind. This makes it an excellent tool for bassists exploring different genres and styles.
Pros:
- Blend Control: Essential for retaining the low end in a distorted signal.
- Size and Weight: Compact and sturdy design.
- Rugged Construction: Durable build quality.
- Gain and Mid Boosts: Adds versatility and clarity to the tone.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for money.
Cons:
- Plastic Knobs: May feel less premium compared to metal controls.
- Comparison to High-End Pedals: While close, it may not fully match the tone of more expensive pedals like the Darkglass B3K, and that’s ok. The Double Thruster is a great pedal on its own!
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Double Thruster stands out as a versatile and affordable option for bassists seeking a wide range of distortion tones. Its thoughtful design and comprehensive controls make it a great tool for achieving everything from mild overdrive to full fuzz, all while maintaining the crucial low end. For bassists looking to expand their tonal palette without breaking the bank, the Joyo Double Thruster is a must-have addition to their pedalboard.
Visit online at joyoaudio.com
Minuendo Lossless Earplugs Live 17dB…
Minuendo Lossless Earplugs Live 17dB – Hearing protection has always been front and center on my mind because I love music so much, I cannot imagine my life if I were unable to hear.
You might remember back in 2021, we had a good look at the Minuendo Lossless Earplugs featuring adjustable protection. This system has a lot of very good features but there was always the question of how much sound attenuation to choose.
Now, the great folks at Minuendo have come up with a new version of their earplugs that has a set 17dB noise reduction. You still get a lot of the great features of the adjustables but you just don’t have to think about the specific sound level. In addition, this new version of earplugs comes at a very attractive price point.
For more information, visit online at Minuendo.com
Joyo Tidal Wave Preamp: A Tribute to 90’s Iconic Sounds
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinion or the content of our review. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
In the realm of bass preamp/DI pedals, capturing the essence of iconic tones from the 90s can often feel like an elusive pursuit. However, the Joyo Tidal Wave Preamp emerges as a great option for bass players seeking to replicate the signature sounds of that era, particularly the revered tech21 SansAmp. With its robust feature set and compact design, the Tidal Wave offers a faithful homage to classic rock tones and low-gain distortions, all while providing modern conveniences for today’s bassist. Let’s delve into why the Joyo Tidal Wave stands out as a versatile and budget-friendly tool for both stage and studio.
Specs:
Measuring at 130 * 110 * 50 mm and weighing 442g, the Joyo Tidal Wave strikes a balance between portability and durability, making it ideal for gigging musicians and studio enthusiasts alike. With a power consumption of just 100 mA and a working voltage of DC 9V, the Tidal Wave ensures reliable performance in a variety of settings.
Controls:
At the heart of the Tidal Wave’s versatility lies its comprehensive control set, allowing bass players to sculpt their tone with precision. Key features include:
– Level: Sets the overall output volume of the pedal.
– Blend: Blends the dry signal with the cab-emulated signal, offering seamless integration of the pedal into any setup.
– Presence: Controls the dynamics of the high upper-mids, crucial for shaping drive tones.
– Drive: Introduces low-gain distortions and classic rock sounds into the clean tone.
– Treble, Middle, and Bass: Provides a 3-band EQ with frequency selectors for bass (40Hz – 80Hz) and mids (500Hz – 1KHz), offering ample control over tonal shaping.
– Middle Shift and Bass Shift: Allows for further fine-tuning of midrange and bass frequencies.
– Ground Lift: Helps eliminate ground loop noise in certain setups.
– DI Attenuation Switch: Adjusts the level of the DI output signal.
– LED Light Switch Control: Allows users to customize the ambient lighting of the pedal.
Performance:
True to its inspiration, the Joyo Tidal Wave excels in delivering classic rock tones and low-gain distortions reminiscent of the tech21 SansAmp. Whether you’re seeking gritty overdriven sounds or pristine clean tones, the Tidal Wave offers unparalleled flexibility and sonic versatility. The inclusion of a headphone out, XLR DI out with cab simulation, and throughout for the original bass sound make the Tidal Wave a versatile tool for both stage and studio applications. From practicing silently with headphones to crafting quality recordings in an ampless setup, the Tidal Wave delivers on all fronts with clarity, definition, and unmistakable character.
Pros:
The Tidal Wave boasts an array of advantages that set it apart from its direct competitors:
– Headphone Out: Transforms the pedal into a convenient practice tool.
– Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight design for easy transportation and setup.
– Rugged Construction: Durable build quality ensures longevity and reliability.
– DI and CabSim: Offers professional-grade direct recording capabilities with authentic cab simulation.
– Familiar Tones: Faithfully replicates the classic rock sounds of the tech21 SansAmp.
Cons:
While the Tidal Wave excels in many aspects, it does have a few drawbacks:
– Plastic Knobs: Knobs may feel less premium compared to pedals with metal controls.
– Cab Simulation Only on XLR Output: Limited cab simulation functionality may require additional routing for certain setups.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Joyo Tidal Wave Preamp stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of classic rock tones from the 90s. With its faithful homage to the tech21 SansAmp, comprehensive control set, and modern conveniences like headphone out and XLR DI with cab simulation, the Tidal Wave offers bassists a versatile tool for sculpting their sound with precision and finesse. Whether you’re seeking to replicate iconic tones from the past or forge new sonic territories, the Joyo Tidal Wave Preamp is sure to inspire creativity and elevate your playing to new heights.
Available online at Amazon.com
Joyo Scylla Compressor: When Quality meets Budget-Friendly
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinion or the content of our review. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
In the diverse landscape of effects pedals for bass guitar, finding a compressor that strikes the balance between performance, versatility, and affordability can often feel like a daunting task.
However, amidst the sea of options, one pedal stood out as a true diamond in the rough – the Joyo Scylla compressor. Despite its wallet-friendly price tag, the Scylla boasts a great array of features and controls typically reserved for pedals with much higher costs. Let’s take a closer look at why the Joyo Scylla is turning heads and earning praise among bassists on a budget.
Specs: The Joyo Scylla compressor measures in at 109 * 72 * 48 mm and weighs a mere 234g, making it both compact and lightweight – perfect for gigs or studio sessions where space is at a premium. With a power consumption of just 100 mA and a working voltage of DC 9V, the Scylla is efficient and versatile, compatible with a wide range of pedalboard setups.
Controls: What sets the Scylla apart from its direct competitors is its comprehensive control set, offering bassists a good amount of flexibility in shaping their sound. With six knobs, the Scylla allows for a very precise adjustment of key parameters:
- Input Gain: Adjusts the amount of signal being fed into the compressor.
- Output Volume: Controls the makeup gain after compression, ensuring consistent output levels.
- Compression Ratio: Unlike traditional compressor pedals with preset ratio options, the Scylla features a continuous knob, allowing for seamless adjustment from subtle compression to limiter-like effects.
- Attack and Release: Determine how quickly the compression engages and releases, offering a range of tonal possibilities from punchy and aggressive to smooth and subtle.
- Output Tone Control: A unique feature not commonly found in compressor pedals, the tone knob adjusts the coloration of the compressed signal, adding warmth or brightness to your bass tone.
- LED Light Switch Control: Allows users to customize the ambient lighting of the pedal, adding a touch of visual flair to their setup.
- Performance: In practice, the Joyo Scylla delivers where it matters most – in sound quality and performance. Whether you’re aiming for a tight, punchy bass sound or smooth, sustained notes, the Scylla excels in providing transparent compression that enhances your playing without sacrificing dynamics. The granular control offered by its knobs allows for precise tailoring of compression settings to suit a wide range of playing styles and musical genres.
- Pros: The Scylla’s strengths lie in its granular control, versatility, and compact design. Its sturdy build quality and diminutive size make it a welcome addition to any pedalboard, occupying minimal real estate without compromising on functionality. However, perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Scylla is its price point. Despite offering professional-grade features, the Scylla remains accessible to bassists of all budgets.
- Cons: While the Joyo Scylla excels in many areas, it’s not without its drawbacks. One notable omission is the lack of metering, which may pose a challenge for users seeking visual feedback on compression levels. Additionally, the plastic knobs, while functional, may feel somewhat less premium compared to other pedals.
- Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Scylla compressor emerges as a great option in the world of budget-friendly effects pedals for bass guitar. Its comprehensive control set, transparent compression, and compact design make it a compelling choice for bassists seeking professional-grade performance without breaking the bank. From its intuitive interface to its thoughtful touches like the tone knob and customizable LED lighting, the Scylla delivers a level of versatility and functionality that belies its modest price tag. For bassists looking to elevate their tone without compromising on quality or affordability, the Joyo Scylla compressor is a clear standout.
For more information, visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/265.html
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