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Video Review: Phil Jones Bass PE-5, Bass EQ, Pre-Amp and DI

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Phil Jones Bass PE-5, Bass EQ, Pre-Amp and DI Review…

Phil Jones Bass (PJB) has announced the release of the PE-5, a pedal designed for bass guitar and upright bass which incorporates a sophisticated 5 band EQ and also offers superior function as a Pre-Amp, Direct Box, and signal booster.

The PE-5 is engineered with a unique switchable input impedance which allows the pedal to match exactly to either a magnetic or piezo pickup.

It achieves the full band spectrum for either pickup source. In addition, it is a signal booster that compensates for low output pickups and will also provide ample drive for any amplifier. The input level and gain controls are designed to precisely match the pickup output to an amplifier. The line output is strong enough to use directly into a power amplifier or a powered speaker.

The 5-band EQ is a high precision equalizer which means that each boost or cut level is identical to each adjacent band.

Plus the Q factor of each band is identical. This makes it far easier for the player to accomplish the tone that they are pursuing. These frequency bands were carefully chosen for the voice of a bass so that the user will be able to adjust the EQ rapidly to get the desired sound.

The DI output is of the highest audio quality obtainable providing a match to even the finest recording studio mixing consoles and live sound systems. It has extremely high signal to noise ratio and features a ground lift switch to eliminate the possibility of “Mains Hum”. 

The PE5 can be powered by a standard 9-volt DC pedal adaptor or run on its own internal lithium-ion battery that is charged with a standard cell phone charger via its USB socket.

The two foot switches provide a mute function and a true bypass.

The rugged housing is constructed of die-cast aluminum alloy made to deliver years of service.

Established in 2002, PJB and AIRPULSE Guitar Amps are divisions of Phil Jones American Acoustic Development. PJB is dedicated to using the latest technology in the design of compact bass amps and loudspeakers that achieve highest in fidelity and volume. Phil Jones owns several patents for loudspeaker technology. 

Features:

  • Designed for bass guitar and upright bass
  • Incorporates a sophisticated 5 band EQ
  • Functions as a Pre-Amp, Direct Box, and signal booster
  • Can be used directly into a power amplifier or a powered speaker
  • Powered by a standard 9-volt DC pedal adaptor or run on its own internal lithium-ion battery that is charged with a standard cell phone charger via its USB socket
  • Two foot switches provide a mute function and a true bypass
  • Rugged housing constructed of die-cast aluminum alloy made to deliver years of service
Video Review - Phil Jones Bass PE-5, Bass EQ, Pre-Amp and DI

1) 1/4” INPUT JACK – The input jack accepts an unbalanced signal from your bass via a standard 1/4” instrument cable.

2) INPUT IMPEDANCE

3) DC IN – External power supply connection 9VDC / 1A

4) USB TYPE-C-For Inner Li-Battery Charge

5) LOW-BASS EQ CONTROL – This will adjust the fundamental tones of E and A strings on 4 string basses and B,E & A on 5 string basses.

6) HIGH BASS EQ CONTROL-This will adjust the fundamental tones of D and G-strings on 4 & 5 string basses.

7) MID RANGE EQ CONTROL – 

8) LOW TEBLE EQ CONTROL-

9) HIGH TREBLE (PRESCENCE) EQ CONTROL–

10) OVERLOAD INDICATOR

11) 1/4” OUTPUT JACK – This output can be connected to power amp, powered cabinet and unbalanced input of other devices via a standard 1/4” instrument cable.

12) BALANCED LINE OUT XLR SOCKET –This is a low impedance (200?) balanced line out for use with recording or PA mixing consoles. This output is not controlled by the volume control.

Changing the level on your instrument will however, vary the DI output.

13) GROUND /LIFT BALANCED LINE OUT-This allows the grounding of balanced out socket to be disconnected. This is useful if you are experiencing hum caused by grounding loops/problems.

14) PRE/POST EQ BALANCED LINE OUT- The output can be either direct from the source or via the EQ circuit.

15) MUTE SWITCH- To cut the sound off from the instrument.

16) MUTE INDICATOR- To show that you have muted the instrument.

17) OUTPUT LEVEL CONTROL- Can adjust the volume or match the outpu t to an amplifier/mixer.

18) INPUT GAIN CONTROL- Allows the matching to weak or strong pickups.

19) ON SWITCH- turns the preamp on and off and bypasses the signal direct; the LED indicator is green when the EQ is on. The LED indicator is red when the EQ is bypassed.

20) EFFECT ON/POWER ON INDICATOR- Shows when the EQ is ON.

21) POWER SWITCH- Switches the EQ on or OFF. In off mode the EQ is bypassed.

For more information, visit online at pjbworld.com

David C Gross has been the bassist for a lot of folks. He has written 14 bass books and 3 instructional videos, hosts “The Notes From An Artist Radio Show” on www.cygnusradio.com Monday nights 8 PM EDT, and the “Notes From An Artist” podcast available on iTunes, Spotify and all podcast platforms.

NFAA brings you behind the scenes with individuals who forged a timeless musical canon – spanning rock, jazz, funk, blues, folk, country, and permutations thereof. Listen to stories and anecdotes hitherto untold and relive more than a few chronicles that have become lore with a fresh vision. It’s the soundtrack of our lives. Celebrate the past, live in the present, and anticipate the future – take Notes From An Artist

You can contact David @ www.thebassguitarchannel.com/contact for more information regarding his online lessons and world-renown correspondence course.

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New Music: Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. New Single, Hush

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New Music: Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. New Single, Hush


Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. Champion Love Over Hate in New Single “Hush” | New Album ‘The Offering’ Out May 1.

Bassist Oteil Burbridge and vocalist Lamar Williams Jr. continue the rollout of their forthcoming collaborative album The Offering, with the release of its second single, “Hush”. A slow-burning Southern soul meditation rooted in love, peace, and emotional clarity, the track is a centerpiece on the album with a potent, thematic statement, in Williams’ words to “block out all of that nonsense” and “remember that there is more love in the world than hate.” The full-length album arrives May 1 via Flóki Studios, recorded on Iceland’s northern coast and produced by drummer, engineer, and Soulive co-founder Alan Evans.

While much of The Offering grew out of Burbridge’s banjo-based writing, “Hush” emerged from he and Williams’ shaping a deliberate sonic vision. Burbridge says they were “trying to capture a more old school Memphis, Macon, Muscle Shoals vibe,” leaning into a Southern soul feel that fits Williams’s phrasing. The end result is a song that is unhurried with a deep pocket that allows the groove and the song’s message breathe and stand at the forefront.

The album features an all-star lineup of drummer John Morgan Kimock, percussionist Weedie Braimah, organist Melvin Seals of the Jerry Garcia Band, pianist and violinist Jason Crosby, guitarists Tom Guarna and Jaden Lehman — musicians whose overlapping histories connect the Allman Brothers Band, Dead & Company, the Jerry Garcia Band, Soulive, and West African percussion traditions.

CONNECT WITH OTEIL BURBRIDGE

Website // YouTube // Instagram // Facebook

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Bass Videos

Interview With Bassist Virginia Franks

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Interview With Bassist Virginia Franks

When I heard that American Vanity, formerly known as Burn the Jukebox, was gearing up to release a new album this summer, it felt like the perfect moment to catch up with bassist and vocalist Virginia Franks.

With a fresh name unveiled just this past January and a clear shift in musical direction, the band is entering an exciting new chapter, one defined by both sonic evolution and a deeper, more focused message.

In this conversation, Virginia opens up about the inspiration behind the upcoming record, how she crafts her distinctive bass tone, what fans can expect from their upcoming tour, and where she sees both herself and the band heading next.

Join me as we dive into it all.

Here is Virginia Franks.

Photo, Devin Kasparian

Follow Online:

thisisamericanvanity.com
IG @thisisamericanvanity
IG @virginiagracefranks/
TikTok @thisisamericanvanity
YouTube @thisisamericanvanity
Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585585599800

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Bass Videos

Nathan East, Echoes of a Lineage – April/May 2026 Issue

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Bass Musician - Nathan East & Son - AprilMay Issue

For decades, we’ve had the privilege of following the remarkable career of Nathan East, listening closely to his albums, tracking his milestones with Yamaha Instruments, and watching his evolving partnership with Laney Amplification with great interest. Along the way, we’ve talked gear, tone, and technique, while hearing his unmistakable musical “voice” woven into the work of more iconic artists than we could possibly list.

Bass Musician - Nathan East & Son - AprilMay Issue

Today, we’re thrilled to reconnect with this true giant of the bass world following the release of a very special new album, Father Son, produced by Nathan alongside his son, Noah East. It’s a deeply personal project that showcases not only extraordinary musicianship but also a powerful family bond.

Join us as we dive into the making of this outstanding record, explore the new Laney Nathan East Signature Bass Preamp, and look ahead to what the future holds for one of music’s most respected and influential bassists.

Here is the one and only… Mr. Nathan East.

Photos, John Abbott @johnabbottphoto

Visit Online:

www.NathanEast.com
FB, IG, X, & YouTube @NathanEast

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Bass Videos

Gear Review: Italia Leather Straps

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Gear Review: Italia Leather Straps

Disclaimer: This bass strap was kindly provided by Italia Leather Straps 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.

I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wide bass strap, something that delivers both comfort and durability without compromising on style. That search ended nearly two decades ago when I discovered Italia Leather Straps.

Handcrafted in the USA from premium Italian leather, Italia Straps offers an impressive range of straps for both bass and guitar players. What immediately stood out to me was the exceptional craftsmanship; every detail, from stitching to material selection, reflects a commitment to quality. These aren’t just accessories… they’re long-term investments for serious musicians.

After more than 19 years of consistent use with my original strap, I can confidently speak to its longevity and comfort. Even under the demands of extended performances, the support provided by a 4” wide strap makes a noticeable difference.

In this review, I’m taking a closer look at the 4” Elite Series Leather Backed Bass Strap, now available in a sleek new Slate Black finish. It’s a refined addition to an already outstanding lineup, combining aesthetic appeal with the same trusted performance.

For more information, visit www.italiastraps.com.

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Bass Videos

Interview With Bassist Tom Doyle

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Interview With Bassist Tom Doyle

Since 2012, Tom Doyle has been holding down the low end for UK alt-rock heavyweights Don Broco, helping to shape the band’s groove-driven, genre-blurring sound into one of the most distinctive in modern British rock. With thunderous tone, razor-sharp precision, and an instinct for hooks that hit just as hard as the riffs, Doyle has become a crucial force behind the band’s ever-evolving sonic identity.

As Don Broco gear up to unleash their highly anticipated new album, Nightmare Tripping, this feels like the perfect moment to dive into the mind of the man anchoring the chaos. From his musical roots and influences to the gear and techniques that craft his signature sound, Doyle opens up about the journey so far and what lies ahead.

Join me as we explore Tom’s evolution as a musician, the creative process behind Nightmare Tripping, and his vision for the future in a band that refuses to stand still.

Here is Tom Doyle.

Photos by Ton Pullen

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