BBE BMAX Class A/B Bass Preamp

No longer available at zZounds
Replicating the sound of classic tube preamps, the BMAX lets you craft the perfect tones for recording or DI with its finely-tuned EQ and Dynamic controls.

The BMAX is a high quality bass preamp/processor for the recording studio and on the stage. At the heart of the BMAX is a class A/B front-end, the input of which emulates the loading effect that the input of classic-design tube preamp would present to the bass pickups, and one of the key aspects in the warmth and punch of tube preamps. The BMAX also provides a pure and clean electronically-balanced DI output. From its 1/4 in. thick extruded front panel to thoughfully designed ergonomics to the red-abalone-topped knobs, the fit and finish of the BMAX exudes quality craftsmanship.

Features

The BMAX is perfect anywhere an extremely high-quality, pristine preamplifier is required for the bass guitar

In the recording studio where a bass amplifier is impractical due to space or loudness considerations

In performance applications, where players will find the BMAX ergonomics intuitive and easy to use

The BMAX EQ and Dynamic controls, combined with the patented Sonic Maximizer processor, afford a wide palette of tonal choices

Specifications

Full Function 4th Generation BBE Sonic Maximizer processor

Solid-state, Class A/B front-end with interactive 3 band EQ and interactive "bright" switch

Electronically balanced DI output

Quasi-parametric mid-range EQ with 12db of boost or cut between 250 to 1000hz

Single-knob soft-knee optical compressor

Inputs for both passive pickup and active pickup instruments

1meg ohm input impedance

Ground lift switch

Balanced XLR and 1/4 in. TRS Outputs

Military-spec circuit boards

Extra thick, extra wide circuit board traces for unequaled electron flow

1% metal film resistors throughout

Solid 1/4 in. thick aluminum extrusion front panel for extreme ruggedness

Made with pride in the USA

5 year warranty

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 714-897-6766

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. (19 ratings)
Submitted September 3, 2014 by Bobby H in Phoenix, Vegas, Nashville, AZ

"Simply Outstanding!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Let me just say first,... I have been playing professionally for 25 years or so and have owned nearly every boutique bass amp and preamp under the sun. That includes Alembic F1-X, Glockenklang, Trace Elliot, EBS, Demeter, GK, Hughes & Kettner, Ampeg,Kern etc, etc. I play, Status Graphite basses, Wal, Spector, Fodera, Sadowsky's and Carvin Vanquish basses (Fretless & fretted). Why this beauty slipped past me is baffling? I later learned that BBE is a small family company and doesn't have all the slick marketing dollars to flood the music scene. Turns out the gentleman that designed this pre for BBE designed it after the luscious Alembic F1-X for the blooming bottom end and full 'Middle' tone. The top end was designed around a Glockenklang Soul-O bass preamp. (Two of the industry favs at ANY price). Win, win! So, already being a fan of the smooth, buttery single knob compression from the EBS Fafner bass head,.. I was intrigued to see this method of compression applied here. And yes, it works as it should. set it about 1:00 and leave it. Done! Now the details... also already a big fan of the BBE time aligning technology, this extra feature adds that 3 dimensional sparkle. And low thickness. Imagine a blanket being lifted off of your favorite speaker cabinet! Just to clarify, This preamp is NOT a pre that 'Overdrives' your tone. (Billy Sheehan would have not much use for it)! Lol! But!... Think, Leland sklar, Jimmy Johnson, Marcus, Mark King, Geddy Lee during the Presto, read more Power Windows, Vail Johnson, era... etc. With military grade circuit boards and pots used throughout this baby is built SOLID! Pots are thick and creamy. I tour extensively,... Front of house engineers at The MGM, Treasure Island, Toby Keith's, the Tropicana ALL have commented on this pristine bass preamp! Complements of the 'studio grade' Direct Out. (Keep in mind 'FLAT' setting is approx Bass @ 2 MID @ 10 and Treble @ 2) Use sparingly : ) All of this boutique, WITHOUT the boutique price! Amazing. Just Buy It! : ) Bobby in Phoenix, Vegas & Nashville.

Musical Background:
Professional

Musical Style:
New Country, Rock, Jazz, Pop.
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